Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog's toe has a red lump and swelling. Cancer or infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | neutered | 9 years and 7 months old | 80 lbs

can a red nodule that suddenly appears under my dog's toe nail, forcing it to be positioned upward plus swelling around the area of the toe be cancer or could it very well be an infection?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on August 5th, 2017

Possible causes for what you describe include cancer, bacterial infection, fungal infections, or trauma to the nail bed. I recommend that Bentley see a vet as soon as possible. He may need x-rays to look at the bone near the nail or cytology to look at the cells of the nodule. If it is infectious or trauma, appropriate medications can be prescribed. If the vet is worried about cancer, they may recommend amputation of the toe.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Cara, DVM, cVMA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Without a picture it's difficult to tell, but sometimes with nail trauma the quick (pink part of the nail) becomes detached from the nail itself. This may be quite painful. A mass could look very similar. I would take Bentley to the vet to be evaluated so they can figure out what's going on.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored