How Do I Treat My Dog’s Red Paws

Red inflamed paws on dogs indicate something wrong, and they often bring discomfort and pain. This can be concerning, and as a pet owner, you want to keep your dog’s paws healthy and avoid issues in the future.

In this blog, we will discuss some causes of red inflamed paws on dogs, how to treat them, and ways you can prevent them.

You may be wondering, “Why are my dog’s paws red?” Here are possible reasons why:

1. Allergies

Like humans, dogs can have allergies. They can be allergic to various substances, such as pollen, grass, specific foods, dust mites, mould, or household chemicals.

The allergy can manifest in their skin, which would itch. In an effort to soothe their discomfort, you may notice them excessively licking or chewing at their paws, leading to red paws.

2. Foreign Objects and Injuries

Red inflamed paws on dogs can also be an indicator that they stepped on a foreign or sharp object, like small stones, pieces of glass, thorns, or rough surfaces. These elements can cause either irritation or injury.

If you see your dog limping, favouring one leg, or struggling to move normally, inspect its paws. Check for any foreign object that may have gotten stuck between its paws, cuts, scrapes, or puncture wounds.

3. Bacterial and Fungal Infections

Bacterial or fungal infections can trigger red inflamed paws on dogs. Other behaviours you need to watch out for include compulsive chewing or paw licking. A foul smell is a particular symptom of bacterial or yeast infection that may result from oozing pus.

Both bacterial and fungal infections need to be treated by a vet and be prescribed a round of antibiotics. For your dog’s red paws to heal properly, try your best to stop them from licking or chewing at their paws, even if that means putting a muzzle on them or a cone collar for the time being. They may be unhappy during the treatment, but it is for their own good, and the discomfort will soon subside.

4. Parasites: Fleas, Ticks, Mites, and Worms

Parasites can lead to skin irritations and bacterial infections, which may manifest as red, inflamed paws on dogs. Fleas and ticks can cause intense itchiness on the bite site, while mites remain latched on their skin or paws, and worms try to find their way towards your dog’s gut, making the scratching or biting more constant.

As some parasites can be invisible to the naked eye, we strongly advise you to consult your vet before they cause more discomfort or lead to health conditions.

5. Dry Skin

Dry skin contributes to red inflamed paws in dogs due to itching, scabbing, or flaking. It can be caused by harsh grooming products, nutritional deficiencies, rough surfaces, or underlying skin conditions.

Your dog may have been exposed to certain allergens or bacteria, whether eaten or environmental factors. They may also take too many baths, stripping off the moisture from their skin or paws.

6. Extreme Temperatures

Walking on hot or frozen surfaces can cause red, inflamed paws on dogs. These extreme temperatures can also make their paw pads prone to blistering or cracking.

You may notice your dog licking its paws to relieve the burning sensation and soreness. This could give rise to bacterial infections, worsening the redness or inflammation.

7. Ingrown Nails

Ingrown nails are nails that grow inside of the skin instead of outside. If you don't regularly cut your dog’s nails, they may grow too long and curl back into the skin.

The pain caused by ingrown nails can be causing the red, inflamed paws on dogs. They may not be as active as they normally are or limping to avoid putting weight on the paw with an ingrown nail.

8. Boredom and Anxiety

Red inflamed paws on dogs can result from excessive licking or chewing as a response to boredom and anxiety. The bad habit of licking or chewing at their paws may cause bacterial infections or other skin conditions.

When dogs are unable to express their energy or are stimulated, they may develop behavioural problems, including licking and chewing their paws or destroying household furniture.

Home Remedies to Treat Red Inflamed Paws on Dogs

When you notice your dog’s red paws, it’s best to treat them immediately. Here are some home remedies you can try:

1. Clean Your Dog’s Paws

Clean your dog’s paws with warm water and use dog-friendly soap or shampoo to remove any dirt or irritants that may be causing the red paws. Remember to rinse thoroughly, because any leftover soap or shampoo residue can make the problem worse.

2. Moisturise with Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a remedy and preventive measure for red, inflamed paws on dogs. It can moisturise dry and irritated skin while warding off parasites. The best part about coconut oil is that it’s organic, so you don’t have to worry about your dog ingesting it. Apply a small amount to your dog’s paws and massage them gently.

3. Oatmeal Baths

Oatmeal baths can soothe irritated skin, relieve itchiness, and treat red, inflamed paws on dogs. All you have to do is run a warm bath and add plain oatmeal to the water.

4. Epsom Salt Baths

Epsom salt promotes healing while relieving discomfort. Dissolve a tablespoon of Epsom salt in a basin of warm water and soak your dog’s paws for 5-10 minutes daily. This can help remedy red paws from irritation or inflammation.

5. Cold Compress

Cold compresses can help reduce itchiness, swelling, and pain. Apply a cold compress to your dog’s red paws daily until inflammation or irritation subsides.

When to See a Vet?

Note that the causes and treatments of red inflamed paws on dogs listed above are not exhaustive. Your dog may have red paws for other reasons, such as diseases. And if the redness continues despite trying the home remedies, it’s important to consult a veterinarian.

For instance, if your dog has a bacterial infection, your veterinarian may prescribe the right antibiotics or recommend antibacterial shampoos for treatment.

Preventing Your Dog from Getting Red Paws

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some preventive measures to spare your dog from the pain and discomfort of red paws:

1. Check Your Dog’s Paws Regularly

Regularly check your dog’s paws, especially after they’ve been outside. See if they’ve stepped on anything and remove foreign objects that may have gotten stuck in between their paws.

2. Keep Your Dog’s Paws Clean

Your dog might be playing in the mud, running around the sand, or simply playing outdoors. Wash your dog’s paws after spending time outside and before entering the house to prevent bacteria or viruses from staying in their paws. Rinse their paws with warm water.

3. Establish a Consistent Dog Grooming Schedule

It’s essential to establish a consistent dog grooming routine to prevent red paws from happening. Besides giving them a shower, you also need to brush their teeth, and trim their nails and fur to avoid ingrowns that may lead to inflammation or infection.

4. Avoid Harsh Weather Conditions

Since extreme temperatures can burn your dog’s skin and cause red paws, avoid taking them for a walk when the ground is either too hot or cold. During the summer, opt for early morning or late night walks instead of mid-afternoon. In the winter, consider protective or ointment to safeguard their paws from the ice, chemicals, and other irritants on the ground.

5. Maintain a Healthy Home Environment

Maintaining a healthy home environment will prevent your dog from getting red paws and benefit you in the process. To ensure the safety of both you and your pet, sweep heavy traffic areas to get rid of dust and sharp objects that may have settled on the floor. Also, consider improving indoor air quality by eliminating floating allergens.

Contact The Barking Lot to Keep Your Dog’s Paws Healthy

Dog grooming plays a crucial role in your dog’s overall health and well-being, and part of regular grooming includes nail clipping and paw care. It’s important to keep your dog clean to prevent issues like red paws.

At The Barking Lot, we offer dog grooming services from bathing, brushing, and nail trimming to more specialised treatments such as paw pad moisturising. We can help keep your dog’s paws healthy. We also accommodate dogs in our daycare and hotel, providing them with a safe and friendly environment while you’re away at work or on vacation. Contact us today!