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My dog has a cut on his paw and won't stop licking it. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pekingese | Male | unneutered | 10 months and 22 days old | 15 lbs

I found a weird cut on my dog’s back foot. What should I do? He’s acting normal, he’s not limping, I have no idea when he got it. I never heard him cry. He just keeps licking it.

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sarah Derksen, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 29th, 2018

Poor baby. I would recommend getting him an ecollar cone to keep him from licking, cleaning the area with a moist washcloth, and applying a.teiple antibiotic. I would then give your veterinarian a call tomorrow for an appointment to be checked out. Good luck

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Amber W

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on August 29th, 2017

    Hi there and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If Einstein is licking the area I would recommend using an e-collar to prevent licking. You can also try to clean/soak the area using a gentle soap and then apply a small amount of triple antibiotic ointment. If there area is not healing in a few days once you are cleaning it and using an e-collar I would have Einstein seen by your veterinarian. Sometimes paw pad lacerations (even small ones) can require oral antibiotics or evening suturing. Hope Einstein is feeling better soon!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 3rd, 2019

    Thank you for contacting Pet Coach with your question about Charlie. Poor pup! I would gently clean the area with warm water and antiseptic soap. To keep him from licking at it, you can put an Ecollar on him. You can get one at a pet store or make one at home. Keep the wound clean and dry, and monitor it for signs of infection. If you see redness, swelling, warmth to the touch, or pus, then it is infected and he will need to see the vet for antibiotics to treat it. Should he continue to limp on it over the next 48 hours, take him into the vet. Please do not give him any human pain medications are many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. Rest him while he's healing. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a leash, and bring him right back in when he's done. I hope this helps!

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