My dog tore his paw pad and won't stop licking it. Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My dog has torn his paw pad. It isn’t bleeding and he isn’t limping and doesn’t seem in pain but it is badly torn and he’s licking it a lot. Is this something that I need to clean and leave to heal by itself or does he need treatment from the vet?

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers 40

Veterinary Technician

Published on December 27th, 2021

Ouch, that's a big enough tear it should be seen by your vet. At the very least they can clip back the hair, thoroughly clean it, and then provide you with pain medications and antibiotics for Ave so it doesn't get infected. Until you can get into your vet, it is best to keep the foot clean and dry and to NOT let him lick it. Licking will introduce bacteria that will cause further inflammation and potential infection. You can use an Elizabethan (cone) collar to keep him from doing so. I would also limit all activity to leashed walks only for potty breaks to prevent him from putting more weight on the injured pad which can lead to more pain.

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My dog tore his paw pad and won't stop licking it. Should I see a vet?

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