Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My dog's paw is red with fur loss. How can I treat it at home?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

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

We have a near 2 yr old pit mix who has reddened areas where there should be fur on one of his paws. Not sure exactly if it's swollen but it most likely is. What can we do at home to help get the areas back to normal. There are no open areas, drainage or odor.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on August 15th, 2018

This can be caused by various reasons such as fleas, mites ,fungal infection, bacterial infection and allergies. the first 4 needs to be ruled out before we start treating for allergies. in order to do that first de-flea Shadow with a high quality flea treatment such as advantage spot on, if it doesn't help - take him to the vet in order to check for/treat the other possibilities.

If everything is ruled out, then an allergy treatment can be started. Usually an hypoallergenic food is a good way to start together with anti histamines. if it doesn't help - the best solution is a medication called Apoquel which treats allergies with great success and without side effects.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 12th, 2019

    This can be caused by various reasons such as fleas, mites ,fungal infection, bacterial infection and allergies. the first 4 needs to be ruled out before we start treating for allergies. in order to do that first de-flea him with a high quality flea treatment such as advantage spot on, if it doesn't help - take him to the vet in order to check for/treat the other possibilities.

    If everything is ruled out, then an allergy treatment can be started. Usually an hypoallergenic food is a good way to start together with anti histamines. if it doesn't help - the best solution is a medication called Apoquel which treats allergies with great success and without side effects.

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button