Why is my puppy's leg swollen and he has patches of missing fur?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 7 days old | 10 lbs
We have a new puppy that has one toe and back leg that is swollen and missing hair. It was slight crusty but after a bath and a little ointment looks better but is still swollen. Plus he has a patch of fur missing on his back.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on July 17th, 2017
Poor Fang! He could have a bacterial infection, ringworm, mites, injury, and/or an allergic dermatitis. His toe looks very swollen and I think he should be examined by a vet to determine the cause and treat. He might need an antibiotic, corticosteroid, anti-fungal, or other medications to help. Your vet can do a skin scrape, culture, or cytology, if needed, to help diagnose. In the mean time, you could soak his paw in a warm Epsom salt solution and see if that helps. Call your vet and schedule an appointment to have him seen.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on September 29th, 2018
This presentation could be due to a trauma or localized spot of skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria). A check up, appropriate disinfection and possibly antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem. Disinfection may be started at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths. Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid any licking. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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