Why is my dog licking one paw? It's torn, red, and flaky. Allergies?

Question

Our dog has been biting and licking excessively at his paw, usually only his front left one. He started limping and we noticed that his left paw pad had a tear in it. We've been putting antibacterial cream on it and wrapping it with gauze and he isn't limping anymore but it's still tore. I just noticed this morning that on the same paw in between his toes is red and flaky. Is this allergies? Last vet visit the vet said he thinks dog is licking his paws due to allergies but only affecting 1 paw. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 105 lbs

Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA · Accepted Answer

It's hard to say if Spot started licking the paw because of allergies or a wound. Excessive licking of the paws can cause secondary trauma to the skin and pads. Pads can take 6-8 weeks to completely heal, so preventing licking and protecting the pad is the best treatment. If the skin between the toes is also affected, I would recommend having Spot examined by a a vet to determine if there is an active infection. Allergies can cause paw licking, but it is generally on 2 or 4 feet, so I think it is less likely in this case.

Why is my dog licking one paw? It's torn, red, and flaky. Allergies?

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