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My dog has a spot on his back foot. Is it from licking or serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Male | 53 lbs

My dog has this spot on his back foot and it is worrying me. I'm not sure if this could be from licking or something more serious? I plan on taking him to the vet but just wanted some advice or maybe if you know what it is

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 14th, 2017

Hi there and thank you for using pet coach to address your concern. From your pictures the affected area you are concerned about looks similar to a small lick granuloma (sore from licking). As this is not an emergency it is ok to wait for your vet to look at this. If it looks as if it is swelling or discharging I would get him in sooner. If you want to keep the are clean, you can use saline to gently cleanse the area. I hope this helps! Please feel free to contact me with any further questions or concerns you may have. I am also available via consultation if needed.

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    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 29th, 2020

    Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. It appears as though it could be a lick granuloma, a chronic granuloma that Ruger has been licking for a while now. These are benign but can persist for a very long time, if not for the life of the animal. You can have these removed, but unfortunately these typically develop in areas where there is not much skin to close after removing the lesion. You could biopsy this area to ensure this is not cancer and just manage this with topical ointments and pain medications. I would discuss further options with your veterinarian.

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 22nd, 2019

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding your dog. I do recommend that he sees a veterinarian. The bump looks very raw. He may need an antibiotic or a topical cleansing solution to help it heal. He could have a small cut that has gotten infected or even have a mass that has grown there. Do not let him lick the area. Place an E-collar on him if necessary. I hope this information helps!

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