5 Common Issues That Could Be Plaguing Your Dog's Paws

Our dogs live active lives, and their paws play a crucial role in every adventure they embark on. From brisk morning walks to runs in the park, a dog's paws support their every step and serve as a gauge for overall health. This guide dives into common issues that could affect your dog's paws and provides practical advice for maintaining and treating an essential part of your dog's anatomy. 

The paws are the first point of contact between your dog and the world. They bear the full weight of your dog's body, absorb shock with every step, and provide essential traction and stability. This is not merely a matter of comfort--it's critical to your dog's overall health. Over time, neglected paw care can lead to chronic pain, joint issues, and infections that may affect mobility. Maintaining strong, healthy paws is vital for preventing long-term damage. 

Regular care, including inspection and cleaning, helps prevent minor irritations from developing into severe conditions. Additionally, the paw pads serve as an early warning system, signaling health issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. Recognizing changes in paw appearance can lead to prompt diagnosis and treatment fo underlying health problems. 

Dogs may not vocalize their discomfort, so it's important to observe subtle behavioral and physical signs. When your dog is experiencing paw discomfort, you might notice:

• Altered Gait: Limping, reluctance to walk, or favoring one paw are strong indicators of pain. 
• Excessive Grooming: Increased licking, biting, or chewing at the paws can signal irritation or pain. 
• Visible Changes: Look for redness, swelling, or any unusual coloration around the paw pads or between the toes. 
• Skin Texture Changes: Cracks, peeling, or dryness in the paw pads might suggest chronic irritation or exposure to harmful substances.
• Odor: A foul smell can indicate bacterial buildup or fungal infections, which often develop from untreated wounds or persistent moisture. 

Noticing these signs early is key. If discomfort persists, consulting a veterinarian can help identify whether the issue is due to an injury, infection, or a more systemic problem. 

Infections are a serious concern to paw health because they can quickly escalate from minor irritations to conditions that require intensive treatment. The three primary types of infections affecting dog paws are bacterial, fungal, and yeast infections. 

• Bacterial Infections: Often develop from cuts, abrasions, or areas where the skin has been compromised by excessive licking. Symptoms include swelling, pus formation, and a noticeable odor. These infections typically require a course of antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian. 
• Fungal Infections: These occur in moist environments, where the skin becomes a breeding ground for fungi. Fungal infections can lead to red, irritated, and sometimes scaly patches, particularly in areas where moisture is trapped between the toes. 
• Yeast Infections: Characterized by discolored skin (often brownish) and a musty odor, yeast infections are common in dogs with underlying allergies or immune system issues. 

The key to preventing infections is maintaining clean and dry paws. After walks or exposure to moisture, use a clean towel or a pet-safe wipe to remove dirt and dampness. If you suspect an infection, prompt veterinary treatment is crucial to prevent further spread. 

To mitigate these risks:

• Pre-Walk Protection: Apply WagWell's Paw Protector to your dog's paws before heading out. This creates a  barrier to protect against both heat and chemicals. 
• Season Gear: Consider using dog booties during extreme weather. Booties can provide further protection against burns, salt, and the cold. 
• Post-Walk Care: Thoroughly rinse and dry your dog's paws after outdoor activities to remove any harmful residues. 

Parasites pose a significant risk to paw health, especially for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors. Small but harmful, these parasites can attach themselves to the paws, leading to discomfort and even more serious health issues. 

Ticks are the most common parasite to be found on a dog's paws. These arachnids not only cause localized irritation but can also transmit dangerous diseases such as Lyme disease. Routine checks after walks are essential to catch and remove ticks before they embed.

Fungal infections such as ringworm, despite being mislabeled as a worm, are another concern. Ringworm appears as circular patches of hair loss and scaly skin and is highly contagious–it may even spread to you. If you suspect ringworm, it's important to consult your vet for appropriate treatment. 

Mites, though microscopic, can lead to sever itching and skin irritation. Mite infestations, such as those that cause mange, result in scaly, inflamed skin and can lead to secondary infections if not treats properly. 

Even minor injuries can lead to significant issues if they are not properly addressed. Dog paws are particularly vulnerable to cuts and abrasions from rough terrain, sharp objects, or even overgrown nails. These injuries might seem small at first but can become serious if bacteria gain access to the open wound. 

When your dog sustains a cut or abrasion:

• Immediate Cleaning: Rinse the wound with clean water to remove any debris. Use a mild antiseptic to reduce the risk of infection. 
• Protect the Wound: Consider covering the injury with a pet-safe bandage. This protects the wound from dirt and further injury as it heals. 
• Prevent Licking: Use an Elizabethan collar (or alternative barrier, I like to use booties) to prevent your dog from licking the wound excessively, as saliva can introduce bad bacteria. 

Monitor the injury closely over the next few days. If you observe increased redness, swelling, or discharge, or if the injury does not begin to heal within a reasonable timeframe, consult your vet immediately.