8 Common Dog Paw Problems

Paw pads provide insulation and traction for a dog’s paws, assist with balance and movement control, and act as shock absorbers for the underlying bones and joints. Though durable, paw pads can be susceptible to various issues. Common dog paw problems include those arising from allergies, infections, cuts, abrasions, nail conditions, cysts, or cracked pads. Regular inspection of your dog’s paws is important to detect abnormalities early and implement measures to maintain their health and protection.

Key Symptoms of Dog Paw Pad Issues and Injuries

Common Causes of Dog Paw Pad Problems and Injuries

Allergies: A Frequent Cause of Paw Irritation

Similar to humans, dogs can experience various types of allergies. Allergic dogs often present with itchy skin, particularly on their paws, leading to biting, licking, or chewing in an attempt to find relief. These dogs may also be more susceptible to chronic ear infections, skin infections, and anal gland problems. Excessive licking can damage the skin, creating irritation or injury and increasing the risk of secondary bacterial or fungal infections. A veterinarian should evaluate dogs that excessively lick their paws to investigate potential allergies.

Fungal and Bacterial Paw Infections in Dogs

What causes dog paw infections?

A variety of bacteria and fungi are normally present on a dog’s paw pads. However, an overgrowth of these microorganisms can lead to infection. Bacterial and fungal dermatitis (skin inflammation) are common in dogs and frequently affect the paws.

Symptoms of a paw infection can include licking, biting, redness, swelling, pain, itching, and discharge. The skin between the toes and in other skin folds is often affected, appearing itchy, red, and sometimes with a greasy discharge. A brownish discoloration of the nails, often from saliva staining due to licking, may also be present.

How to treat a dog paw infection

Paw infections can be a primary issue or secondary to an underlying condition, such as an allergy. A veterinarian is qualified to diagnose paw infections in pets and may prescribe treatments like medicated topical creams, wipes, or shampoos.

Understanding Dog Nail Problems and Care

• Overgrown nails: Overgrown nails are a common issue that can cause discomfort and difficulty walking. When long nails strike hard ground, the force can push the nail back into the nail bed, causing pain and potentially altering a dog’s gait, which places abnormal stress on toe joints. Overgrown nails are also more susceptible to breaking or tearing.
• Broken nails: Nails can break or fracture if they snag on something. A dog might suddenly start limping and exhibit bleeding from a paw after outdoor activity, indicating a possible nail injury. Broken nails can be very painful and often bleed; veterinary attention is recommended for proper treatment.
• Ingrown nails: Nails, particularly dewclaws, that are not regularly trimmed can overgrow and curve into the paw pad. This creates a painful ingrown nail, similar to the condition in humans. Untreated ingrown nails can lead to infection.

Protecting Paws from Burns and Blisters

A useful guideline is that if a surface is too hot for your bare hand or foot, it is likely too hot for your dog’s paws. Before allowing your dog to walk on pavement, especially on warm days, test its temperature with the palm of your hand. If you cannot comfortably hold your palm on the surface for at least 7-10 seconds, it poses a burn risk to your dog.

Dogs can suffer painful burns on their paw pads from contact with excessively hot surfaces. Signs of burned paw pads include redness, swelling, blisters, or missing pieces of pad. Paw pad burns are a serious medical concern requiring prompt veterinary care.

Soothing Dry and Cracked Dog Paw Pads

Healthy paw pads have a naturally somewhat rough texture that aids grip. However, factors like hot pavement, cold weather conditions, exposure to certain chemicals, dry air, frequent contact with abrasive surfaces, or excessive licking can lead to dryness and cracking. Dry, cracked paw pads can cause discomfort and increase the risk of infection.

Dealing with Dog Paw Cuts and Abrasions

Cuts, abrasions, and lacerations to paw pads are common injuries, given that dogs walk and run on diverse terrains. It is advisable to scan the ground for sharp objects during walks and consider protective measures like dog boots if traversing rough or potentially hazardous surfaces. Foreign objects such as small stones, thorns, glass fragments, or other debris can become embedded in a dog’s paw pads or the skin between their toes.

Parasites Affecting Dog Paws: Ticks and Mites

Ticks often attach between a dog’s toes, where they can cause local irritation, pain, and potentially transmit diseases. If veterinary assistance is not immediately available, use fine-tipped tweezers or a specialized tick removal tool to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Ensure the entire tick, including the head, is removed to prevent infection or irritation.

Mite infestations can also affect a dog’s paws, leading to symptoms such as scaling, hair loss, and swelling. Diagnosis and treatment of mites require veterinary assessment, often involving skin tests to identify the specific type of mite.

Identifying Cysts and Growths on Dog Paws

Cysts, lumps, or other growths can appear on a dog’s paws or between their toes. If you notice any new or changing lumps or bumps, it is important to consult your veterinarian. They can diagnose the nature of the growth and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include monitoring or removal.

Proactive Dog Paw Care and Injury Prevention Tips

Implement Regular Paw Grooming

Regular nail trimming is a key aspect of paw care. Nails should generally be trimmed when they are long enough to touch the ground as the dog walks. The required frequency of nail trims varies depending on the individual dog, its breed, activity level, and the surfaces it typically walks on.

Nail trimming should ideally be a calm and positive experience for your dog. Gradually accustoming your dog to paw handling can facilitate the process. Training a dog to use a scratchboard for nail filing is an alternative approach. Avoid forceful restraint or attempting to trim nails when a dog exhibits signs of stress or fear, as negative experiences can make future grooming more challenging. Numerous resources offer guidance on making nail trimming a less stressful procedure.

Be Mindful of Weather Conditions

During summer, avoid walking your dog on hot pavement or sand to prevent burns. In winter, rock salt and chemical ice melting products can irritate or damage paw pads and may be toxic if ingested through licking. Rinse your dog’s paws with lukewarm water after walks to remove any chemical residues or salt. Using a paw cleaner and applying a dog-specific paw moisturizer can help prevent dryness and cracking. Do not use human lotions or moisturizers on your dog; consult your veterinarian for suitable products.

Check Your Dog’s Paws Regularly

Inspect your dog’s paws routinely, ideally after outdoor activities or exercise, as this is a common time for injuries or for debris to become lodged. Check for foreign objects like ticks, thorns, or small stones in the paw pads or between the toes. Remove any visible debris and carefully examine the paws for cuts, blisters, or other signs of injury.

Basic First Aid for Minor Dog Paw Injuries

Having a pet first-aid kit is advisable for addressing minor injuries. If you discover a small cut or abrasion on your dog’s paw, clean the area gently with an antiseptic solution or mild soap and water. If there is persistent bleeding, a light bandage may be applied; ensure it is not too tight and does not retain excessive moisture. A protective dog boot can help prevent further irritation or contamination. Monitor the paw closely. Contact your veterinarian if the wound is deep, bleeds persistently, shows signs of infection (such as swelling, pus, or increased pain), or does not show signs of healing.