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My dog's paw is swollen, red, and bleeding. What should I do now?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Border Collie | Female | spayed | 5 years and 6 months old | 55 lbs

Hello! My dog has a strange growth type thing on her back paw which is connected to the large bad on the bottom of her paw. It is swollen, red and bleeding. I have seen her lick it a couple times and it has been there for a week now and is not showing any sign of healing or going away so we are calling the vet. What could this be? Is there anything I should be doing until I see the vet? Thanks for your help.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on June 5th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Bella!

Based on your pictures that isn't a growth but a paw pad abrasion. I see it when the dog runs too much on asphalt or tennis courts chasing balls and skidding. I have seen multiple feet and multiple pads affected and peel like blisters. They heal quickly by preventing licking with an E-collar, soaking in Epsom salts, oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatories.

I wish you and Bella the best!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Rebecca, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on September 17th, 2017
Lola should see a veterinarian as it appears her paw pads may be infected. You need to prevent her from licking even if that means an e-collar. You can try soaking her foot in a lukewarm Epsom salt solution once or twice daily as well. But to speed healing she may require oral antibiotics and probably pain medications as well.
Good luck to Lola. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Claudia Fioravanti
Veterinarian
Published on January 4th, 2019
Hi, I think she either has some kind of skin infection or pododermatitis which is an inflammation that can cause painful pads. I would not keep the foot bandaged but I would prevent her from licking it by using a buster collar. Have a look at this useful article https://www.petcoach.co/article/cracked-paw-pads-and-other-foot-problems-in-cats-explained/
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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