Red, irritated dog paws are usually from allergies (food, environmental), infections (yeast, bacterial), injuries/trauma (foreign objects, burns), or even dry skin, often leading to licking/chewing, which worsens the issue and can signal underlying problems like parasites, autoimmune issues, or hormonal imbalances, requiring prompt vet attention for proper diagnosis.
Certain topical products may be recommended, including medicated shampoos, mousses, or anti-itch spray. For open sores or wounds on the paws, placing a soft bandage may be needed. Ideally, your dog may have to wear an Elizabethan collar (or cone) temporarily to prevent licking or chewing.
Epsom Salt Soak
One of the best treatments to use for a swollen paw with an unknown cause is soaking your dog's foot in water with 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt. You should keep it soaked for 15 minutes.
Here are the most common signs to watch for: Redness and inflammation. Constantly licking or biting their paws. A distinct, musty smell.
Epsom salt soaks of the feet for about 5–10 minutes at least once a day can help wash off environmental allergens and contaminants. This also soothes the skin of the feet and helps the healing process. You can also use medicated wipes to help clean the paws and relieve some of the itching.
If your dog's paws are red and the condition does not improve with basic care, you should seek your veterinarian's advice right away. Persistent redness, swelling, or discomfort can indicate a more serious issue that requires professional treatment.
Use an Antiseptic and Soothing Paw Cream
If you are in need of a more lasting solution, you will want to also use a topical cream or ointment. Some creams are antiseptic, others are soothing, and a few do both.
Unfortunately, it's not always easy to tell if your dog's infection is caused by either bacteria or yeast. Both can cause similar symptoms and appearance in your dog, but yeast infections often lead to more skin thickening, a greasy haircoat, and more odor.
There are certain breeds thought to be genetically predisposed to developing yeast infections. These breeds include West Highland White Terrier, Basset Hound, Cocker Spaniel, Silky Terrier, Australian Terrier, Maltese Terrier, Chihuahua, Poodle, Shetland Sheepdog, Lhasa Apso, and Dachshund.
If it's mild and caught in the early stages, it can clear up in a few days. If it's a severe infection, it can take up to a few weeks to completely heal. Managing a yeast infection requires continuous monitoring of your dog's immune system.
There are several safe and effective medications to treat pain in dogs, including carprofen, grapiprant, and meloxicam. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for people, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), are harmful to dogs.
Pododermatitis is a term used to describe inflammation affecting the skin of the feet. It often causes dogs to have swollen, red and itchy feet, which can progress to painful sores if left untreated. In very severe cases, dogs can even become lame.
Resting your dog and keeping the paw clean can help speed up the healing process. Your vet might recommend a mild antiseptic or a protective bandage to keep the paw safe from further injury. More severe conditions, such as infections or sprains, might take a week or more to heal.
Get veterinary care as soon as possible if your dog is: Refusing to put any weight on the limb. Yelping or crying out when touched or moved. Showing swelling or visible injury.
Allergies and Infections
Just like us, dogs can have allergies too. Allergic reactions to food or pollen can lead to sore paws. If you notice redness, swelling, or your dog keeps licking their paws, it could be a sign of an allergic reaction or even an infection.
Unless a dog has a food allergy, food itself isn't a cause of yeast infections in dogs. However, yeast feeds on and thrives in a high sugar, high carbohydrate environment. If your dog struggles with yeast infections, then your dog may benefit from avoiding dog foods that have corn or soy as the first ingredient.
Addressing a Dog Yeast Infection on the Paw
Antifungal shampoos and medicated wipes help reduce yeast overgrowth on the paws. These products contain ingredients like chlorhexidine, ketoconazole, or miconazole to combat fungal infections.
Zignature Kangaroo Dry Food is a great option for dogs with yeast infections because it uses kangaroo as a novel protein, which reduces the risk of allergic reactions that can contribute to yeast overgrowth.
Untreated yeast infections can become chronic and lead to unnecessary discomfort for your dog. Over time, untreated infections may result in: Widespread inflammation and irritation. Increased risk of secondary bacterial infections.
Redness and inflammation: The affected paw or paws may appear red, swollen, or inflamed. The skin may also feel warm to the touch. Unpleasant odor: Yeast infections often have a noticeable, unpleasant odor. Dog owners may notice that their paws smell musty, “yeasty”, or even “cheesy”.
If symptoms persist or worsen after attempting these remedies, consult your veterinarian promptly.