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My dog has a painful lump between his toes and won't put weight on it.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 40 lbs

A lump has appeared today between 2 of my dog's toes. He does like digging, also it could be a bite but no one puncture. He often gets ticks between his toes. He is reluctant to put weight on it and his nose is warm and dry.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Ann Dion, DVM

Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 11th, 2018

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. There is no tick in the picture that I can see, or crater from a tick bite. The lump could be a few different things. Most likely is an abscess (pus filled pocket) from a puncture wound and possible "foreign body", something like a grass seed stuck in the foot. The other possible causes are a bug bit of some sort that has caused a local reaction, such as a bee sting or ant bite, or it could be that Dante broke the toe and it is swollen. If he is not putting weight on it, then it means it is quite painful. I would recommend having him into the vet, as it is most likely an abscess, and those can cause bone infections if not treated. Your vet might be able to just treat it by lancing it and providing pain relief and antibiotics, but x-rays or surgery might be required as well. Best of luck with Dante.
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