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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

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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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!

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Other Answers

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    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.

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    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.

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    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.

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