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Why does my dog have a bump between his toes and keeps licking it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 2 years and 5 months old | 50 lbs

There is a bump between George’s toes. I only noticed it because he kept licking it. We have been putting chew deterant spray on it 2-3 times a day to stop him from messing with it. Been about a week it is still there. Pink instead of red now since he has stopped messing with it. Faint red circle on it though. Not Limping. Doesn’t like his feet being messed with so hard to say if touching it hurts. First pic from Saturday, second from today.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 8th, 2018

This appears to be infected and will need some treatment in order to ensure it heals correctly. These interdigital (in-between the toes) infections are often caused by something like a thorn or grass awn getting stuck in and under the skin. If this is not removed, then the infection will persist and can get much worse. For this reason, it's best to take George to your vet for an exam. they can explore the wound and ensure any foreign material is removed. They will also be able to ensure he gets the best treatment. For now, I recommend doing the following: 1) Wash/spray the area with just cool, clean water (no soap or other antiseptics) for at least 5 minutes at a time. Do this at least twice a day. 2) Bandage the wound with gauze and apply an over-the-counter antibacterial cream (i.e Neosporin) to the wound. Below is a link to a good demonstration on how to bandage the wound. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLc-7CdluuE Keeping it covered and keeping George from licking it will be the most difficult part of the treatment. You can help keep the bandage on by placing a good (really sticky) tape above and below the bandage. You can use the chew deterrent spray on the bandage (not the wound) to help keep George from chewing it off. NOTE: Be careful not to bandage too tight or it can cut-off the circulation. If you notice that the toes/foot starts to swell, then remove the bandage and leave it off until the swelling goes down. Another strategy to keep the bandage on, is taping a clean sock over the bandage. I hope that helps and George gets better soon.

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