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My dog has a lump between paw toes. Why is he licking it so much?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Rottweiler | Male

Hello my Rottweiler has a lump between 2nd and 3rd toes on paw pad. Looks like something in it but he's Wrigley and won't let me near it. He's not limping but licks his paw constantly. I've tried cleaning it but he then pulls away. Best advice please.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 6th, 2018

Apparently the lump is either itchy or painful, or your dog would not be licking it constantly. Lumps between the toes or pads can be caused by a foreign body , such as a thorn or grass ear, being stuck in the skin and causing infection. It could also be an infected interdigital cyst, or a tumor. I suggest you make an appointment with your veterinarian on Monday to have the paw examined and the foreign body removed/cyst evacuated or treated or the tumor biopsied, whichever applies. Your vet can prescribe medications to reduce pain and clean this up in such a way that it may not bother your dog so much. If you have an e-collar at home, put it on Monty so he cannot lick the area and aggravate the condition.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 15th, 2019

    I recommend to have your pup examined by the veterinarian today. Many times this is due to an infected puncture wound or something like a grass seed that has worked itself under the skin. It may need to be lanced. I hope this helps.

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