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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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4 Answers

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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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 13th, 2020

    Hello. This may be an indication that Milo has some allergies & sensitivities to something in his environment. You can try picking up a spray with a little hydrocortisone ( Zymox Topical Spray with Hydrocortisone is a very good one ). Most pet retailers will carry this, but it is available online at Amazon & Chewy.com. Spray a couple of times a day for the next few days & see if the irritation lessens. If it does, great, otherwise you may need to see your veterinarian for stronger drugs if the inflammation persists. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 22nd, 2018

    This looks like an infection, possibly caused by excessive licking. This will need to be seen by a veterinarian who will have to determine whether there is a foreign body inbetween the pads (which could have started the licking behavior) and whether this infection is caused by bacteria or a fungus. Treatment would consist of clipping and disinfecting and removing any found foreign bodies as well as topical and/or oral medications. Your dog will need to wear an e-collar to prevent her from licking.

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    Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 26th, 2018

    Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The paw pads do appear a bit red to me from the pictures. You can try an Epsom Salt bath for his paws 2-3 times daily for 5-10 mins. If you notice no improvement or if they worsen, he may need to see his veterinarian for an exam and antibiotics or other medications as needed.

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