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Why are my dog's toes red, swollen, and causing her to limp?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Bulldog | Female | spayed | 6 years and 8 months old | 135 lbs

redness and swelling between my dogs toes - right back foot- two outer toes she is limping and being very sensitive about it

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Veterinarian

Published on October 1st, 2017

Sammi may have allergic skin disease causing these red areas. Often allergies are combined with secondary yeast or bacterial infection between the toes. This can be very itchy and painful. Take Sammi to the vet for a diagnosis and proper treatment. She may need to be on antibiotics and allergy medication like Apoquel or prednisone to help with the pain and swelling. Hope that helps!

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    Answered By Joy Fuhrman, DVM, MBA, CPA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This looks like an allergic dermatitis. Topical steroids can be applied but these typically do not help because pets will just lick them off. Like oral steroids and/or antibiotics will be needed for this to heal.

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