Swollen Paws in Dogs

How to Treat Swollen Paws in Dogs

Swollen paws are very uncomfortable and painful for dogs as paws are generally sensitive. The condition is caused when a foreign material is trapped between the toes/pads of the dogs’ foot. The other common causes for swollen paws include puncture wounds, insect bites, fractured claws, broken toes and constant chewing/licking.

Signs to Check Out For

You need to check if your dog is limping on either foot. Pay close attention to the paws and check for any abnormal swelling. Ensure you check the claws as well because a damaged nail may also cause swelling. 

If all the paws are affected, you need to check them closely to see whether they might have become swollen from overexertion after too much exercise.

If you notice that the front paws appear swollen but the rear ones seem normal, your dog might be licking and chewing them due to an allergic reaction.

How to treat swollen paws

Finding out the primary cause of the swelling will help you resolve the issue, and will determine if you can treat the issue using home remedies or if you need to visit the veterinarian.

Keep track of parasite management

• Foreign objects that are stuck in the paw can be easily removed at home. Cleaning and washing the paw would be sufficient.

• If you suspect the paws are swollen as a result of overexertion, you should let your dog relax and avoid long walks or high impact workouts.

• Check puncture wounds or insect stings (though difficult to pinpoint)

• If you cannot spot any foreign material stuck in the paws, ensure the leg has no constricting object that can cause swelling.

• You can soak the paws in a bath of Epsom salt. Dissolve Epsom salts in a basin or tube and soak in the paws. Soaking the paws for 10 minutes will help reduce the swelling significantly.

• If you spot a cut that does not disappear quickly after sometime, you need to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.

• If the paws smell yeasty or cheesy, then your dog might be suffering from a fungal infection. 

• If your dog’s feet are swollen as a result of an allergic reaction, consulting a veterinarian will help you find the best way to deal with the problem.

Prevention

Regularly check your dog’s pads and paws for burns after exercising, particularly after running over jagged terrain, overgrown ground, or hot asphalt.

Conclusion

If you notice your dog has sore paws but you are unable to pinpoint the exact cause, then you should consult a vet to help you find the right treatment.

References: Petmd, Pets4homes, Wagwalking