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Why is my dog's dew claw swollen and he won't stop licking it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | neutered | 9 years old | 9 lbs

Hello, I noticed Christian was licking his paw constantly and when I checked him, his dew claw is swollen forming a big ball and can't see his nail. Both are swollen but one is more like two balls merged together. I've never noticed as I dont cut his hair short.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 1st, 2019

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Christian. I recommend that he sees his veterinarian. I am unable to tell from the pictures if an infection has developed around the nails causing the swelling or if he has a mass growing. The veterinarian will likely perform a procedure known as a fine needle aspirate. A small needle is used to collect a sample from the swelling to evaluate under the microscope. This will tell you to treat the problem. I hope this information helps!

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