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My dog's paw bump flares up. Can I use peroxide? Is it an abscess?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 1 month old | 70 lbs

Im pretty sure my dog has a boil on his paw. Sometimes it looks like it's going away and sometimes it's really inflamed. I periodically put peroxide on it. Will this help at all ? Is this even an abscess ?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Lauren M. Jones, VMD

Answered By Lauren M. Jones, VMD

Veterinarian

Published on August 2nd, 2017

Poor Brew! Since this lesion is waxing and waning in size, and not dramatically worsening or rupturing, an abscess seems less likely. Given the appearance of this lesion and Brew's young age, a benign skin mass like a histiocytoma seems most likely. However, the only surefire way to determine the cause of this lesion is to take him to the vet for an exam and needle aspirate of this lesion so that the cells can be examined microscopically. Hydrogen peroxide can actually delay healing, so I would avoid using this on the lesion. Instead, you can try a wound spray ( http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=25902 ). However, I do think a vet visit is your best bet. I hope that all goes well!
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