Professional Guide
Dog Paw Infection
Bacterial or fungal overgrowth causing inflammation, pus, or odor.
Red Flags: Immediate Vet Attention Needed
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
- !Strong, foul odor from the paw
- !Pus or colored discharge
- !Fever or lethargy
- !Spreading redness up the leg
Common Causes
- 1Bacteria entering a small cut
- 2Yeast overgrowth (often due to moisture/allergies)
- 3Ingrown hairs or nails
- 4Untreated foreign object
Home Care Steps
- 1
Step 1
Wash with antibacterial soap or chlorhexidine solution.
- 2
Step 2
Keep the area completely dry (moisture feeds infection).
- 3
Step 3
Trim hair between pads to improve airflow.
- 4
Step 4
Do not bandage unless instructed (needs air).
When to see a Vet
Monitor Closely (Yellow)
No improvement after 2 days of cleaning.
Schedule within 24 hours
Urgent (Red)
Deep abscess, fever, or refusal to eat.
Seek immediate care
Frequently Asked Questions
Q
Is dog paw infection contagious?
Most are not, but fungal infections (ringworm) can spread to humans/pets.
Q
What does a yeast infection smell like?
It often smells like corn chips or old cheese.
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