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Why are my 4-month-old puppy's paws red, hairless, and itchy?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Female | unspayed | 4 months and 15 days old

My 4 month old puppy has terribly itchy paws. The vet has given her cortisone tablets which she gets a quarter a day. She is still licking chewing her paws. They are red and hairless. I am looking for a remedy which I can soothe the itchiness. Something natural if possible since she is so young.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on January 20th, 2019

Before looking for a remedy, look for the cause. Have the skin scraped to check her for Demodex mites as they will common infest the feet. Scabies mites can also infest the feet but are difficult to diagnose on a skin scrape. I recommend to start her on an oral flea product such as Simparica or Nexgard as they will treat scabies. If it goes away within 4-8 weeks, then you know it was mites. Food allergies will also present as itchy feet. Discuss a food trial with your veterinarian. This is the only way to diagnose a food allergy. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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