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My dog's paw is swollen from a bug bite. What home remedies help?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Havanese | Male | neutered | 4 months and 1 day old | 18.2 lbs

Hi, my dog foot seems like he got a bug bite, it's swollen in between his paws, any remedy at home to heal his foot? Thank you vey much

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on May 1st, 2017

Poor Teddy! That does look quite sore :( If he's acting normal otherwise, you can try soaking his paw in warm water and Epsom salt for a few minutes, 1-2 times a day - often, this helps to draw out fluid and reduce swelling and irritation from minor sore spots or injuries like this. If he's licking or chewing at his paw, you may also need to place an e-collar (plastic cone) on him to prevent this, so he doesn't continue to make it worse. If there is no improvement in the next 2-3 days, or if the spot seems to be getting larger or Teddy seems excessively painful, it would be best to have this checked by your vet - he may need oral antibiotics and/or anti-inflammatory medication to treat the problem.

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    Answered By Rebecca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 15th, 2017

    I would recommend placing an e-collar on Ziggy to prevent him from chewing his feet. Epsom salt soaks may help or washing his feet with chlorhexidine scrub or shampoo. There is not OTC oral medications that are likely to help. If he won't allow topical treatment or it's not helping he will need a vet visit for prescription medications- likely antibiotics, antifungal medications and possibly antiinflammatories.

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