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My dog has paw sores, red skin. Is it an infection? How do I treat?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 2 months old

Hello I have a blue nose pitbull that is 15 months and at this time she has open sores on her paws and redness in her fur mainly around the nipple area. How should I treat this and what is it

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Cara, DVM, cVMA

Answered By Cara, DVM, cVMA

Veterinarian

Published on July 18th, 2017

The pictures are difficult to see, but it appears that Cookie may have an infection on her skin. It may be caused by bacteria and could be secondary to scratching, fleas, or an allergy. I would get her on a good flea preventive if she's not on one already, but I think she may need to see a veterinarian as these infections sometimes need antibiotics to clear up.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 11th, 2018

    I am sorry to hear about Cookie. It is possible she could suffer from flea allergy dermatitis, and a few flea bites and cause severe inflammation and often secondary skin infection. Often these lesions require systemic antibiotics and/or steroids to stop the inflammation and treat the underlying infection. I would recommend taking Cookie to a veterinarian for an examination and to get proper treatment.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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