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Why is my dog's paw very swollen, red between toes, and limping?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 3 years old | 67 lbs

My dogs paw is swollen with red in between and limping. He gets this a lot but never this bad. Normally I dump peroxicode and clean it and it heals but this seems like it's the most swollen it's ever been

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on April 27th, 2017

Ouch! Chopper's paw looks quite inflamed and uncomfortable! Some of the more common causes of swelling between the toes are related to contact allergies, ingrown or infected hair follicles, or immune system disorders. Peroxide can be beneficial to clean out an open wound once, but can actually delay tissue healing if it is used repeatedly. In the future, I would avoid using peroxide. Due to this degree of swelling and discomfort, Chopper should be examined by his vet. I didn't see any pustules in the photos, but his vet will need to closely look for these during exam, as they can indicate the presence of infection. Chopper may also need oral or topical anti-inflammatory medications or anti-itch medications to allow his foot to heal. Repeated licking is only irritating his skin further and could lead to a skin infection (if it isn't already present). Try to put an e-collar (cone) on Chopper until you can take him to the vet to prevent further skin damage. I hope that he's on the mend soon!

5Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on October 22nd, 2018
Keeping it clean and preventing licking are about the only things you can do at home since we don't know the cause. It could be a range of issues, including infection, cancer, broken toe, puncture or something under the skin, etc. Unfortunately there are no human OTC pain medications that are safe for dogs. You can continue epsom salt baths once daily.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on May 24th, 2017
This type of condition usually needs to be treated with antibiotics and anti inflamatorries. You can try Epsom salt bath on the paw 3 times a day, it can sometimes improve the condition but if you see no improvement within 2-3 days you should take him to the vet to get it treated.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on February 19th, 2018
I agree with you. Infection is a concern, but so is a spinter or other object buried in the tissue. The warm water and Epsom salt soaks are a good idea. Keep that up, but I would also encourage you to have her evaluated by your veterinarian. She may need antibiotics to help it heal. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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My dog's toes are swollen, red, and she's chewing them. What's wrong?

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My dog's paw is swollen between toes from licking. What can I do?

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My dog's paw is swollen, bleeding, and limping. Cone or vet visit?

Yes, I would get a cone. Be sure that the cone extends past the end of his nose or he will still be able to lick. This could be a serious problem. Bumps between the toes can be anything from a cyst, to a tumor to an abscess. You can keep soaking it with Epsom salts. You can apply the aloe but it's not likely to help; Neosporin would be better. I suggest you don't wrap it. If you bandage it too tight or incorrectly then you can cause more damage. If after 4-5 days he is not better you need to get him to the vet for an exam.

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