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Why is my dog's paw red between the pads and he keeps licking it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 12 lbs

Hi. I have a 12 lb. Maltese poodle who has developed mysterious red between his individual paw pads on only one foot on the underside. I noticed him licking that paw so inspected it closely. I can't find an actual wound. He does NOT show discomfort when walking and does NOT lick constantly, but when he does lick, it's that specific paw and I did find the red discoloration on that paw only. Is it possible that his long nails (overdue for trimming) are at all related to the issue? Any advice..

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 19th, 2018

Hello. This is a very typical presentation of a dog with Atopy, an inhalant or contact skin allergy. Your veterinarian can recommend several different manners in which to address this problem, including medicated shampoos or oral/injectable antiallergy treatments. It is curious that we commonly only see this in 1 foot, but the irritation can develop anywhere on the body. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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