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My puppy's toe is swollen. What could be wrong and what should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Male | neutered | 4 months and 6 days old | 26 lbs

My puppy has a swollen toe. Is it his toe nail or could it be something worse?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 14th, 2018

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. I would have this looked at by a veterinarian so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. I would recommend having x-rays taken of the toe to make sure the toe is not broken. If there is no broken bones, then I worry about a bacterial infection and he may need to be placed on oral antibiotics and an anti-inflammatory. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. 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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5Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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