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My dog's paw is swollen, limping, and not eating. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 49 lbs

My dogs left paw is swollen causing him to limp now. This started on Thursday, but now it’s getting bad. It’s a little cut that scabbed after I cleaned it off dried and wrapped his paw. Now its just swollen and he’s limping bad. This morning he didn’t want to eat just drank half a bowl of water. What can I do? Im worried now. Usually with his allergies this would of went down by now.

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on June 17th, 2018

You need to take Dollar to the vet today, he is clearly suffering from either pain or a severe infection (probably both!) and will need to be treated with a course of antibiotics and anti inflammatories.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 6th, 2020

    Poor Braxton! His paw is quite swollen. It could be he severely injured it or it may be infected. He needs to see a vet now. The vet can diagnose what is causing and can treat it. I hope this helps!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By David Darvishian

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 17th, 2017

    Hi and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to see that T's paw is swollen. Reasons for swelling include trauma to the paw, possible allergic reaction/inflammation from an insect/spider sting. It's also possible that there is a tiny puncture wound or scratch that isn't easily seen causing problems and possibly an infection. Foreign bodies such as thorns, grass awns, or other objects can penetrate the foot and cause problems like this. Obviously, resting him overnight is a good idea. Leash walks only, no running, no playing. If the paw is still swollen tomorrow morning, a visit to your veterinarian would be indicated unless you think the swelling has gone down. Your vet would do a physical exam, possibly an orthopedic exam, and may suggest imaging studies such as xrays to determine the problem. They may also ask to shave the area to see if any small puncture wounds or scratches are present. I hope T gets better soon.

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    Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 1st, 2019

    Hello, sorry to hear about Dante. It could be associated with an allergic reaction or an infection of his feet. He could also have foreign debris between his toes and paws. You may look in between his toes for any evidence of foreign material. Alternatively, he could have a local infection from bacteria or yeast. Distemper does not cause foot swelling and lyme disease causes joint pain. If youre unable to find any foreign material and his feet continue to appear swollen, then he may need to be examined to ensure that he does not need medications for an infection or for an allergic reaction. Additionally, pain medications should be administered to make him more comfortable. Have Dante evaluated if he continues to be uncomfortable with swollen paws. Hope this helps and best of luck.

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