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Why is my dog's foot swollen and painful near the pinky toe?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 5 years and 3 months old | 100 lbs

Pitbull with swollen right foot. Super sensitive to touch especially near his pinky toe.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 22nd, 2017

Hi there. So sorry that Fire is having this issue. It is difficult to tell what is going on from the photo. I see the swelling and redness for sure. It could be anything from a nail bed infection, to a foreign body (like a grass awn that has migrated under the skin) which is very common between the toes of dogs, or it could be the start of a cancer tumor. My recommendation is to get him to the vet for an exam so the proper diagnosis can be made. That way treatment can be instituted that will work. In the meantime you can soak the foot in Epsom salts to see if that will help reduce the swelling (about 10 minutes twice a day). Hope this helps. If you have more questions please post again! Best wishes!

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