My dog licks his paw. Is Neosporin safe or what else can I use?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
My seven year old Maltese Jack Russel.His one front paw is bothering him and he licks it. I am using Neosporin cream. Is there anything better? I want to try something before any anesthesia has to be used.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on June 20th, 2018
I actually would not recommend putting anything topical on it if he can potentially lick it off. Neosporin is not particularly toxic if a small amount is ingested but it won't have a chance to work if your dog is licking. I'd recommend putting an e-collar on him to keep him from licking. If there is a raw spot or other skin lesion it would be a good idea to have your vet take a look - he might need oral medications for it to resolve. I doubt he would need anesthesia unless there is a skin growth that is there.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
-
Published on October 14th, 2018
No, I am afraid , Neosporin is an antibiotic ointment which is only good for minor skin infections or minor wound inspections. It will not reduce swelling or inflammation. You need to keep your dog from licking the injury, as she will lick bacteria into the wound. Looking at the photo this may be very painful and your dog will likely need prescription natibiotics and antiinflammatory pain medicine. I suggest you take her to your veterinarian for an exam on Monday.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
My dog chewed his paws and took off some skin.. I put on some neosporin but he licked a bit off. I covered it after and put a cone on, but will he be okay from licking a little?
My dog had a cut between some of her pads on her foot. she wouldn’t stop licking the paw, so we wrapped it up and put neosporin on it. She hasn’t bothered it since. Should we be concerned?
Is neosporin safe to use on a dog wound or do I need to ask my vet for a antibacterial cream? Nothing major just a rash on her foot. The rash already been looked at and there’s no signs of parasites but the site is taking a while to heal so I’m tryin
Is Neosporin with three active ingredients safe to put on her. Licking the wound removed her stitches taking off her cone
Is it safe to put neosporin on my cat?
I have a 6 year old Siberian Husky. She has a sore on top her front paw/leg that she will not let me near. I was able to snap a few photos when she was getting her morning snuggles. At first I thought it was from the way she lays or rough housing wi
My dog has a small open wound on his hind leg, it had a small mass that I though was a tick, but was not. I have put neosporin on the wound and he is relaxed now. I just want to know if this is something I should be concerned with.
Is that a rash or something else? Can i apply like neosporin or something in there or no?
Can I use this on Fred's paw?
Hello, My dog wagged her tail since we got home from vacation and it bled so we wrapped with a bandaid , did not put anything on. Now it’s red and swollen and she is licking that area. Will neosporin help?
Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.
