Is a Dog’s Red Paw a Sign of Interdigital Dermatitis?

1 Why a Dog’s Paws Are Red

1) Interdigital dermatitis (pododermatitis). A common cause of red paws, with swelling, pain, heat, and blisters; severe cases cause limping. Wash the paw with a dog-specific cleanser, dry thoroughly, apply a pet skin ointment to the red area. For many blisters, use a rivanol (ethacridine lactate) solution to disinfect.

2) Fungal infection. A dirty, damp environment or an uncleaned dog bed breeds bacteria and can redden the paws. Move the dog to a dry, airy spot, apply iodine or alcohol to the red area, and deep-clean the room to remove lingering bacteria.

3) Injury. Fights or overuse can wound a leg and inflame it, turning the paw red. For minor cases, apply an anti-inflammatory at home; for serious wounds, clean and bandage, then see a vet.