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My dog's paw is swollen and purple from an ingrown nail. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 6 years and 3 months old | 45 lbs

My dog is a small pup he is six years old. I recently notice that his paw is swollen and it seems like he has an ingrown nail. It’s very swollen and purple, he licks it a lot. What can I do to fix it ? Please help, thank you.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on November 25th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is likely happening because of the nail. This is probably very painful. I recommend you have him evaluated by a veterinarian. They would be able to evaluate the area carefully and probably cut the nail carefully. Pain control medications and medications for inflammation may be used after to help with healing. Best of luck!

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