Red alert: What your dog’s paws are trying to tell you

Healthy paws are crucial for a dog’s well-being, which is why red, inflamed feet should set off alarm bells for any attentive pet owner. This discomfort can stem from a surprisingly wide array of sources, often hiding in plain sight. The great outdoors, with its cocktail of pollens and grasses, can spark allergic reactions in sensitive pups, as can ingredients in their food. Contact dermatitis, burns or lesions, and even conditions like parasites, bacterial infections, and pododermatitis could be playing a role in your dog’s paw predicament.

Read along to learn more about the possible causes of red paws, plus treatment and prevention tips.

Allergies to food or the environment can cause red paws on dogs. Skin infections can as well, along with common irritants like parasites and trauma. Treatment will be dependent on the underlying problem—so it’s especially important to determine the underlying cause as quickly as possible.

• Allergies
• Yeast
• Parasites
• Ringworm
• Bacterial infections
• Burns or excessive cold
• Blisters, cuts, and abrasions
• Cysts and growths
• Anxiety or boredom
• Foreign bodies
• Ingrown toenails
• Insect bites and stings 
• Systemic disease such as hormone imbalances or immune-mediated conditions

If you discover redness or irritation on your dog’s paws, consider checking and cleaning the area thoroughly to see if the redness subsides. As a general note, always call your veterinarian for a physical examination if symptoms persist or worsen. Here are some helpful steps you can take at home to begin to address the irritation:

• Check your dog’s paws. Is there an object caught between their toes or in a paw pad? Are there any signs of a cut or trauma? Be sure to take a closer look.
• Clean your dog’s paws. For redness that may be caused by yeast infections or allergies, or for redness caused by an object that you easily removed, follow up by cleaning your dog’s affected paw with a medicated shampoo and warm water.

If your pup is in pain you should schedule a vet visit immediately to have your dog checked. More severe cases of red paws on dogs may be due to parasitic infections or infections that can only be diagnosed and treated by a vet and with prescription medications, such as antibiotics. If allergies are the culprit, your vet can discuss a management plan, which may involve medications, diet change, and lifestyle modifications.

Specific treatment options will vary based on what’s causing your dog’s red paws. For example: If your pup’s red paws are due to mild bacterial infections or fungal infections, medicated shampoos can help soothe symptoms and moisturize the area. You can also use medicated ointments, like this one from Douxo, to soothe your pup’s paws.

Additional options you can try include:

• Oatmeal baths.  Soaking in a plain oatmeal bath is a great way to soothe skin in hard-to-reach areas, like your pup’s feat. Simply run a warm bath, sprinkle plain ground oats (or oatmeal) into the water, and let nature work its magic.
• Cold compresses. Cool rags or a cool mat can reduce itchiness and swelling around your pup’s feet, giving them near-instant relief as you work toward a more permanent fix.

While you should always watch out for your doggie’s paws, it’s especially important during the summer and winter months. Here are a few steps to take to ensure your dog doesn’t end up with irritated paw pads.

• Do frequent paw checks. Be sure to inspect your pup’s paws after they’ve been outside to make sure they didn’t accidentally step on anything or cut themselves on sharp objects.
• Use booties or balms can help prevent burns and blisters on your dog’s paws. Booties provide a physical barrier between your dog’s paws and the ground. And, dog paw balms create a protective barrier between your pup’s paws and hot asphalt or rough terrain.
• Avoid walking your dog during harsh weather conditions. Extreme temps can cause burns and lesions on your pup’s feet. Stick to early morning or late evening walks in the summer. In the winter, snow, ice, and chemicals on the ground can irritate your dog’s paws. Pet parents can even try doggie booties for extra protection!
• Keep your pup up to date on flea and tick medications. Fleas, ticks, and other parasites can be easily avoided by keeping your dog on monthly preventatives.
• Treat your pup’s seasonal allergies. Ask your vet how to help manage your dog’s allergies. You can also use a  salmon oil or fish oil supplement with omega-3s to promote skin health.
• Properly trim and maintain your dog’s nails. Keep up with regular nail trims to prevent them from overgrowing and potentially causing issues in the future.
• Avoid allergens. Keep your pup away from potential allergens in and out of your home, including dust, weeds, cleaning chemicals, chemicals sprayed on grass, etc.