Paw swelling in dogs is painful and causes lameness. Watching their dogs limp is distressing for owners. In this article, I, Ivana Crnec, DVM, will explain the most common causes of swelling of the paws and give home remedy tips.
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Content:
Why Is My Dog's Paw Swollen
Paw swelling is a common sign indicating various conditions. Some of them, such as pad burns are localized and others like allergies are systemic.
- Allergies: Systemic allergies cause itchy paws while contact allergies irritate the paws directly. The dog responds by licking or chewing the paws, aggravating the situation.
- Foreign Objects: Foxtails and other grass material easily get stuck between the toes, causing inflammation and swelling. According to a retrospective 2003 study grass awns from between the toes can sometimes migrate.
- Insect Bites or Stings: Dogs can accidentally step on an insect and get bitten or stung. The bite or sting causes a local inflammatory reaction manifesting with swelling.
- Paw Injuries: Paw injuries can be physical, such as cuts and lacerations, or chemical, when triggered by ice-melting agents. Frostbites and burns are caused by walking on cold or hot surfaces.
- Toenail Problems: Torn nails and toenail cancer are common culprits for paw swelling. Studies show that toenail cancer is prevalent in large black breeds like Schnauzers, Gordon Setters, and Standard Poodles.
Use the Petcube Pet Camera to supervise your dog and catch paw-related accidents early on, even if you are not at home.
Dog Paw Swelling Locations
The most common location of the dog paw swelling is between the toes. Stepping on objects causes swelling on the paws. Insect bites or stings can occur anywhere on the paws. Cancers develop beneath the nails or on the toes.
“Sometimes dogs get growths on their paws and they go unnoticed because it’s an area we don’t see or check a lot” explains a Reddit user.
Swollen Dog Paws Home Remedy
Home remedies are reserved for milder cases of paw swelling. Start by cleaning the dog’s foot with warm water and a light dog-friendly soap. Inspect the paws and pads for sores, redness, visible puncture marks, discharge, and odor.
Epsom salt soaks are a universal home remedy that works for various irritation types. Baking soda, apple cider vinegar, and aloe vera are also efficient for soothing inflammation. Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling and restrict activities to prevent further injuries.
Home remedies, however, are not always enough. “You should always take your dog to the vet for a swollen paw if you’re unsure of the cause,” warns DR. Kayla Akkaya in an article for VEG.
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Conclusion
From minor bug stings to serious cancerous growths, there are many potential causes of paw swelling in dogs. Limping is the telltale sign of paw problems and warrants vet attention.
Home remedies, like cold compresses and soaks with Epsom salts, baking soda, apple cider vinegar, and aloe vera help soothe irritation but are not a substitute for veterinary treatment.
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