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Why is my dog's paw inflamed, losing hair, and painful to touch?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 1 year and 10 months old | 47 lbs

Hi, Could you possibly guess as to what this is on my dog's front right paw... there is hair loss and the area is inflamed. It also hurts her when I try to touch it. Thank you very much

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Emily, DVM

Answered By Emily, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 5th, 2017

This could be an abscess, a deep cyst, or even a tumor. I'd recommend you monitor it for an increase in size, change, redness or discharge. If you notice those signs or it does not go away within the next 12 to 24 hours I recommend your dog be examined by their veterinarian. I would not give any human pain medication as it can be very toxic to dogs.
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