My dog's paw wound: Should I cover it or let it heal uncovered?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Schnauzer | Female | spayed | 17 lbs
Should a dog wound be covered or uncovered for healing? I've read conflicting information. She was stung by a bee a week ago and developed a small wound just above her front paw. We've been keeping it covered with a gel ointment specific to dogs. We've switched to Neosporin as of yesterday. It's not infected and only slightly red from licking. Paw 1 was two days after bee sting. Paw 2 is today.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on June 14th, 2018
Hi there. Usually, unless there is active bleeding, I tend to leave wounds open and uncovered to heal. Bandages can trap moisture and cause the area to get infected, and can also cause tissue damage if they become too tight. If Maeby is licking excessively at her paw, you can use an e-collar (plastic cone) to keep her from getting to it until it's healed over. Neosporin is okay to use topically on the wound to help prevent infection. If it hasn't healed within the next 4-5 days, or if you see any redness or swelling developing around it, then I would recommend taking her to the vet for an exam as she may need oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatory meds to treat it more effectively.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on October 5th, 2019
Unfortunately the pics are slightly out of focus and I cannot really evaluate the severity of the injury. This presentation could be due to a trauma or localized spot of skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria). In these cases, generally speaking, a check up, appropriate disinfection and possibly antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem. Neosporin will be effective and can be used topically for 5 days. Disinfection can be done at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths. Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid any licking (if any). Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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