Understanding Canine Paws Disease: Causes, Symptoms, an

1. Trauma Injuries

While playing, dogs can accidentally step on sharp objects like nails, glass shards, splinters, or thorns, which can pierce or cut their paws, leading to injuries. You might notice your furry friend limping or constantly licking their paws when at rest. This behavior should raise a red flag.

If you observe your dog limping and frequently licking their paws, it's crucial to inspect their paw for any cuts. If the wound is severe, showing signs of ulceration, pus, or cysts, it's time to visit a reputable veterinary clinic. For smaller wounds without signs of infection, you can manage the injury at home. Begin by removing any fur around the wound, then clean it with hydrogen peroxide or iodine solution. Apply an Elizabethan collar to prevent your dog from licking the wound. Clean the wound daily; if there's no improvement after a week, seek veterinary care. During this period, try to keep your dog indoors to avoid further injury.

2. Dry Cracks

Excessive licking, allergies, hormonal imbalances, or autoimmune issues, combined with harsh environmental factors such as walking on icy, snowy, or hot, rough surfaces, can lead to cracked paw pads in dogs.

Preventing cracked paw pads is possible by regularly trimming your dog's nails, wiping their paws with a towel after walks, and avoiding extreme temperatures. Be mindful of the ground's surface temperature when taking your dog for walks.

3. Bacterial and Fungal Infections

This is a common paw condition where dogs, with weakened immune systems, come into contact with pathogens, leading to infections. Symptoms include redness, ulceration, and hair loss. To address this, ensure your dog wears an Elizabethan collar to keep the paws clean and away from bacteria and fungi. Treatment should involve both topical and oral medications.

4. Eczema

Dogs suffering from eczema will often lick their paws to alleviate itching, but this can lead to inflammation and hair loss over time. Eczema is characterized by its tendency to recur and is challenging to cure. Causes can vary, including inadequate drying after bathing, Staphylococcus aureus infection, spicy food, overexertion, weakened immunity, allergies, and genetic predisposition.

City dogs are particularly prone to eczema. To treat it effectively, identifying the root cause is essential. Treatment typically involves taking antihistamines and applying eczema ointments, along with consistent longterm medication.