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My dog's paw is cut and she can't walk. Should I go to the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | spayed | 8 lbs

My dog foot got caught in the door and it cut part of her paw the bleeding stopped after some mins I cleaned it and bandaged it she seems fine other than the fact she can't walk on that paw. Do I need to take her to the vet or does this type of stuff heal with proper home care?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 6th, 2017

If your dog is not bearing weight on the foot then this warrants a visit to the vet as the foot must be quite painful and the cut may be deep enough to need antibiotic treatment. The vet will determine this based on their exam.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 21st, 2018

    Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Good to hear Teddy is still walking on it okay, but I would still take him in to see his veterinarian so they can take a closer look. There may be something stuck in it or it could be a bacterial infection from an allergy or other injury to the paw pad which may require antibiotics in order to help heal. Until you are able to take Teddy to his veterinarian, I would recommend soaking the paw in Epsom salt for 5-10 mins 2-3 times a day to help lessen the swelling a bit. I hope this helps and thanks for posting!

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 24th, 2017

    These generally heal uneventfully if caused b an accident, in which case keep bathed with salted water to prevent infection. They can occasionally be a sign of a wider skin problem so monitor all feet closely for the next week or so and contact your vet if spreading

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