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My dog licks his paw raw, causing open sores. What is it and how to help?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | neutered

My dog, Max, has been getting these weird open spots where there’s no fur and over time they get bigger and I’ve heard it from him licking his paws so we try to watch him and tell him no when he does but we all are busy during the day and when we see clear stuff or puss come out of it then we a spray we got to help wounds and infections oh animals then we take a Cotton ball or gaze pad and tape his paw, but then he ends up licking it and it comes off. What is it and what can we do to help it?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on January 30th, 2018

Based on the picture it could either be something called acral lick granuloma it it could be some sort of tumor. Acral lick granulomas are deep infections that usually require oral antiantibiotics and sometimes steroids and you have to break the lick cycle. I would highly encourage you to have him evaluated by your veterinarian soon. Once there is a diagnosis you can make a treatment plan. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon, Thank you for using Pet Coach.

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    Answered By David Darvishian

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 5th, 2017

    Hi Kristi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear that Hooch is having problems. Most skin problems especially in this area are caused by external parasites mostly fleas but could be ticks, mites etc. Sounds like there may be a bacterial infection starting but would need pictures to evaluate that. Bacterial infections can break out on their own or be caused by parasites like mentioned above, allergies to things in the air or contact, irritation to things in the environment (contact directly to the skin), among other things. If these areas/sores do not resolve or he continues to lick them I would advise letting your veterinarian see Hooch to determine what is going on. After a physical exam, your vet may just advise treatment including good external parasite control (flea/tick products) or they may advise testing to further explore the problem. I hope Hooch gets better soon. Remember we are approaching the height of the flea season right before the fall season. Good luck and keep a good flea/tick product on him as advised by your vet.

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