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How do I get black, tar-like gunk off my dog's paw pad safely?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | unspayed | 4 months and 2 days old | 6 lbs

My dog and I went out for a walk and when we came back I saw that she has something black (paint, tar looking no idea what it is) in between her left paw. I give her a bath so that she can be clean and I can remove it but it did not work at all. It is exactly the way it was. It doesn't even seem like something is coming off and seems more like a part of her body. Please suggest how I can remove it?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on March 17th, 2017

Some substances can be difficult to remove from paw pads. Try soaking Lucy's paw in diluted original blue Dawn dish soap to see if there is foreign material that can be dislodged. Please be sure to thoroughly rinse her foot afterwards.

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