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My dog's paw is red, swollen, and he keeps licking it. Is it serious?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 8 years and 5 months old | 50 lbs

My dogs carpal pad or dew claw iss really red/raw from him licking it. But it’s also different size (bigger) . What can I do for him to stop him irritating it, or what do I look for that may be causing it?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 19th, 2017

Ouch, poor Issac! It looks like that could potentially be a growth of some sorts, but without seeing him in person I can't say for certain. He should see a vet for it. The vet can diagnose what is causing it and how best to treat it. In the meantime, to keep him from licking at it, I would put an Ecollar on him. You can buy one at a pet store or you can make one at home. I will put a link below on how to make one at home. As for the vet, I would see if you can get him into one Monday or Tuesday. Good luck, I hope this helps!

http://dogsaholic.com/care/homemade-dog-cone.html

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Maria DVM
Veterinarian
Published on September 17th, 2021
It is hard to comment too much without a picture of the red bump/scrape. If she is licking it then I would recommend an ecollar over a bandage because the bandage can harbor moisture which can lead to infections.

I would recommend getting an ecollar and calling your veterinarian in the morning to see if they can fit you in. This is not an emergency but I would have them check it so she doesn't make it worse by licking it.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 17th, 2017
Hi there and thank you for your post! It certainly looks irritated as if something may have bitten / stung him. While you are waiting for your appointment tomorrow, I would just make sure he is not licking obsessively at the area. I would get a plastic cone for around the head to prevent him licking / chewing the area to prevent further problems. Hoping this resolves soon for Spike! Your vet may prescribe topical ointment and an anti-inflammatory for treatment. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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