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My dog is limping and has a sore on his paw pad. Is it serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 10 years and 2 months old | 96 lbs

Buddy was limping and I found a pussy knot just off the pad of his paw.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 13th, 2018

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. It is difficult to make out exactly what this is based on the pictures, but it appears to be an ulcerated sore that has opened up on the paw pad. I would recommend having this looked at by your veterinarian so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. This sore could be a mass or an infected wound. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 28th, 2018

    This could be a cyst, a little abscess, a foreign body reaction or a tumor. You will need to take Tootsie to a vet for an exam. If it is a tumor, the vet will take a tissue sample to determine whether it is malignant or benign. If there is a foreign body, it will have to be found and removed. An abscess or a cyst will have to be evacuated. Your dog may also need antibiotics and pain medication. Please make an appointment with your veterinarian tomorrow.

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