Why Are My Dog’s Paws Red? Understanding and Addressing Red Paws in Dogs

As dog owners, we all want to ensure our furry friends are healthy and comfortable. However, sometimes we notice changes in their behavior or appearance that can cause concern. 

One such issue is when a dog’s paws appear red and inflamed. 

In this post, we will explore the possible reasons behind red paws in dogs, discuss symptoms and potential causes, and offer insights into treatment and prevention strategies.

Let's take a look at what the experts have to say about why your pup's paws are red. Occasional paw licking is normal grooming behavior in dogs. 

However, when the licking is extreme and persistent, it’s usually a sign there’s an underlying problem. 

If your dog’s paws also look red or inflamed, they could have pododermatitis. The key to getting pododermatitis in dogs under control is prompt diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause. Otherwise, it can lead to debilitating chronic flare-ups and infections.

What is Pododermatitis in Dogs?

When we refer to "red paws" in dogs, we are describing visible redness or inflammation on the paw pads or between the toes. “Red paws” are also known as Pododermatitis, a broad medical term for inflammation of the paw's skin. This inflammation can affect one or multiple paws and can cover part or all of the paws. Dr. Millie Rosales, a board-certified veterinary dermatologist, explains that the inflammation can impact the paw, digits, around the nail, or the pads. It’s important to recognize that pododermatitis is a symptom, not a disease, and identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment.

Recognizing Pododermatitis

When we talk about dog paws being red, we refer to the visible redness or inflammation on a dog's paw pads or between the toes. Redness alone is not a definitive diagnosis but a symptom indicating an underlying issue. Common symptoms associated with dog paw redness and inflammation include:

• Swelling: Swollen paw pads or areas between the toes often accompany redness.
• Scratching and Licking: Dogs with red paws may frequently scratch or lick their paws, indicating discomfort or irritation.
• Discoloration of irritated paw pads: The redness may be accompanied by a change in the color of the paw pads, appearing darker or lighter than usual.
• Lesions or Sores: Red dog paws may develop small lesions, sores, or blisters, contributing to discomfort and pain.
• Odor: A foul odor emanating from the paws can indicate an underlying infection or dermatological issue.

Understanding these symptoms can help determine whether your dog's paws are experiencing redness and discomfort. Observing your dog's behavior and looking for these signs can help address the issue promptly.

What Causes Pododermatitis in Dogs?

One of the biggest challenges of pododermatitis is that it can be multifactorial. There’s always a primary underlying cause for pododermatitis, but other factors can also influence the inflammation.

Dr. Rosales explains that a common cause for paw inflammation is allergies, whether that’s to food or atopy, which is an allergen in the environment like pollen from trees, grass, weeds, etc). “Those allergies will cause the dog to have very itchy feet, and the chewing and licking leads to trauma and often infection,” she says. (1)

Image from Medi Kurin

Common Symptoms Associated with Red Paw Pads

In addition to redness, several symptoms may accompany red paws:

• Swelling: Swollen paw pads or areas between the toes often occur alongside redness.
• Licking and Scratching: Dogs with red paws may frequently lick or scratch their paws, indicating discomfort or irritation.
• Discoloration: The redness may be accompanied by a change in the color of the paw pads, appearing darker or lighter than usual.
• Lesions or Sores: Small lesions, sores, or blisters may develop, contributing to discomfort and pain.
• Odor: A foul odor emanating from the paws can indicate an underlying infection or dermatological issue.

Understanding these symptoms can help you determine whether your dog's paws are experiencing redness and discomfort. Observing your dog's behavior and looking for these signs is crucial for addressing the issue promptly.

Common Causes of Your Dog’s Red Paws

Allergies

Allergies are a frequent cause of red paws in dogs. Like humans, dogs can be allergic to various substances, including pollen, certain foods, fleas, mold, and grass. Allergies often manifest in their skin, especially around their feet, causing itchy and inflamed paws. This condition, known as contact dermatitis, can be triggered by exposure to allergens in the environment or in their diet.

Bacterial Infection and Fungal Infections

Inflamed or moist areas on a dog's paws can become susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections. These infections often cause redness, swelling, and a bad odor. A common fungal infection known as yeast infection, which typically occurs in the ears, paws, groin, armpits, and areas between folded skin. (2)

Parasites

Parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites can reside on and bite a dog's paws, leading to redness and irritation. Some parasites are too small to be seen with the naked eye, necessitating a skin scrape by a veterinarian to confirm their presence.

 

Environmental Factors

Extreme temperatures can affect a dog's paw pads. Walking on hot or frozen surfaces can cause burns or frostbite, leading to redness and irritation. Additionally, cuts, abrasions, and blisters from rough terrain or sharp objects can also cause inflammation.

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Growths or Cysts

Interdigital growths or cysts can form between a dog's toes, causing redness and discomfort. These are more common in dogs with wide paws and certain breeds with short hair.

Behavioral Issues

Anxiety or boredom can lead to excessive licking and chewing of the paws, resulting in redness and irritation. Identifying and addressing the root cause of this behavior is essential for preventing further damage.

Hookworms

These tiny worms burrow through the skin on the feet, causing red, itchy feet, before making their way to the gut to live. Hookworm infection is more common in dogs kept on concrete and dogs kept in groups, but it’s still rare in most areas. (3)

When to See Your Vet

Veterinary Examination

If you notice your dog’s paws are red, it's essential to consult with your veterinarian. A thorough examination will help determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Your veterinarian may take a complete medical history, perform a physical exam, and recommend diagnostic tests, including skin scrapings, blood tests, or biopsies.

You should visit your vet if your dog’s red and inflamed paws persist for more than a couple of days or if they seem:

• Lethargic
• Painful
• Irritated by them

Your vet will take a look at your dog’s paws and determine whether any investigations are needed. Often, treatment can be offered in the initial consultation, but in some cases, your dog may require an anesthetic for X-rays or surgery to remove a foreign object.

Your dog’s paws are important. The saying ‘no foot, no horse’ also applies to dogs – a sore paw can quickly become a big problem if it’s not treated properly, and your dog will be miserable as a result. Red paws on dogs are a warning sign that something isn’t right, so don’t ignore your instincts and visit your vet if you spot a problem, especially if it doesn’t improve with some basic home care.

Common Diagnostic Tests your Vet will perform.

• Skin Scrapings: To check for parasites or infections.
• Blood Tests: To identify hormonal deficiencies or allergies.
• Biopsies: For advanced cases or when tumors are suspected.

 

 

Treating Red Paws in Dogs

Home Remedies and Initial Care

If the redness is minor and not causing your dog significant discomfort, you can start with some home remedies:

• Clean the Paws: Use medicated wipes or shampoos to clean the affected area. 
• Cold Compresses: Applying a cool rag or compress can reduce swelling and itchiness.
• Oatmeal Baths: Soaking in an oatmeal bath can soothe the skin.

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Veterinary Treatments

If home remedies do not improve the condition, or if the redness is severe, consult your veterinarian. Depending on the underlying cause, treatments may include:

• Antibiotics: For bacterial infections.
• Antifungal Medications: For yeast or fungal infections.
• Anti-inflammatory Drugs: To reduce inflammation and discomfort.
• Steroids: For severe allergic reactions or inflammation.
• Medicated Shampoos and Creams: To treat infections and soothe the skin.

Preventing Red Paws in Dogs

Regular Your Dog’s Paw Health 

Keeping your dog's paws healthy requires regular care and attention:

• Frequent Paw Checks: Inspect your dog's paws after they’ve been outside to ensure they haven’t stepped on anything harmful.
• Keep Paws Clean: Regularly clean your dog's paws, especially after walks in potentially contaminated areas.
• Paw Balms: Use paw balms to create a protective barrier against harsh surfaces and conditions.

Environmental and Behavioral Management

• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Walk your dog during cooler parts of the day in summer and protect their paws from ice and chemicals in winter.
• Address Allergies: Manage your dog's allergies with the help of your veterinarian, including dietary changes and medications if necessary.
• Behavioral Solutions: Provide mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and anxiety-related licking and chewing.

Regular Veterinary Check-Ups

Routine check-ups with your veterinarian are essential for early detection and treatment of potential issues. Keeping up with flea and tick prevention and ensuring your dog’s overall health can help prevent paw problems.

Image from Medi Kurin

FAQs

If a dog has a red paw, can dog food cause it?

Yes, dog food can cause red paws. If your dog is allergic to an ingredient in their dog food, this allergy may manifest in their dog’s skin, causing red and itchy paws, among other symptoms. 

It is essential to determine what ingredient is causing the allergy so you can choose dog food that does not contain the allergen. Consulting your vet can help identify specific food allergies and recommend suitable dietary changes.

If a dog keeps licking their red paws, what are the risks?

If a dog keeps licking, chewing, or gnawing at their red paws, it can lead to infections and further inflammation. 

This self-trauma can exacerbate the underlying issue, making it more difficult to treat. It is crucial to address the cause of their red paws as soon as possible to prevent secondary conditions, such as bacterial or fungal infections, which can make the situation more painful and complicated for your dog.

Conclusion

Red paws in dogs can be a sign of various underlying issues, from allergies and infections to environmental factors and behavioral problems, impacting your dog’s body, particularly the dog’s feet. 

Understanding the symptoms and causes is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. Regular paw care, prompt veterinary attention, and addressing environmental and behavioral factors can help keep your dog’s paws healthy and free from discomfort.

By being proactive and attentive to your dog's needs, you can ensure their paws remain in optimal condition, allowing them to enjoy their daily adventures with you. If you ever notice your dog’s paws are red or inflamed, don't hesitate to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action. Your furry friend’s health and happiness are worth it!