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My dog's paw is swollen on two toes. Should I treat it or see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 1 year and 1 month old | 60 lbs

My dogs paw is swollen on two fingers. I'm not sure if it is because of the trail runs on gravel we have recently gone on or the dog fight that he got into. I would like to avoid going to the vet if possible just because I feel like this might be and irritated part or dermatitis. Should I treat it with hydra Cortizone cream and Neosporin accompanied by a Benadryl and a warm soapy water bath? Or is this really something I need to take him in for?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 17th, 2017

The area is quite swollen and the skin looks angry and irritated. It also looks like Jax has been licking this area. This likely is not caused by waking on gravel since it is on the top part of the paw, so trauma from the dog fight is more likely. If a bite occurred here then this may be an abscess. If the area is warm to the touch and if your pet is bothered by this area and painful when it is touched, then it needs to be seen by your vet for oral antibiotics and likely an anti-inflammatory medication. Benadryl may or may not help her, but can be tried. Hydrocortisone cream is likely not to work either, unless this is an allergic skin reaction. Neosporin can be applied in a very small thin layer and as long as it is not licked off by Jax. However this will only buy you some time to get Jax in to the vet at a later date. I hope Jax gets this resolved soon.

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on

    It is possible Jax is developing some type of infection. Place an e-collar (cone) on him to prevent licking. You can try Epsom salt foot soaks a couple times a day. That may bring down the swelling. Restrict activity to leash walks for elimination. Ideally, he should be examined by your veterinarian to diagnose infection or injury. If the toes don't improve, Jax will need to be examined.

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