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Why is my dog's paw hole black after an ingrown hair healed?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My dog had ingrowing hair on her left back leg on her paw in between her toes, it healed but yesterday there was a hole which I cleaned but today it's black, she isn't in pain she's her normal self should I be worried about it being black it's flat and soft to touch

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Angel Alvarado, LVT

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on November 8th, 2016

It is possible the ingrown hairs caused a cyst or abscess to form which then drained/ruptured leaving a hole. If she is licking the paw, place an e-collar (cone) on her. Keep the paw as clean and dry as you can. Foot soaks in Epsom salt or diluted chlorhexidine may help with inflammation or infection. Monitor for redness, discharge, lameness or lethargy. If it does begin to improve in a day or so, have her examined by your veterinarian.
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