10 Home Treatments for Sores Between Your Dog’s Toes

Published on: December 5, 2024December 5, 2024Author: Bestie Paws

Sores between your dog’s toes, often referred to as interdigital cysts or pododermatitis, can cause discomfort and pain for your furry friend. These sores can be caused by various issues like allergies, infections, or foreign bodies such as grass seeds. Luckily, there are home treatments that can help soothe these sores and promote healing.

Key Takeaways:

What’s the first thing I should do when I find sores between my dog’s toes? Clean the area with a mild antiseptic solution to prevent infection.
Can I use Epsom salt for my dog’s sore paws? Yes, Epsom salt soaks can reduce swelling and soothe the pain.
Are there any natural anti-inflammatory treatments? Aloe vera and chamomile are great natural remedies for reducing inflammation.
How can I prevent sores from coming back? Regularly clean and check your dog’s paws, especially after walks, and keep their nails trimmed.
When should I visit the vet? If the sores don’t improve after a few days or worsen, it’s time to consult a vet.

What’s the First Step in Treating Sores Between My Dog’s Toes?

The first step in treating sores between your dog’s toes is to gently clean the affected area. Sores can easily become infected if dirt or debris gets trapped in the wound. Use a mild antiseptic solution like chlorhexidine or diluted iodine to clean the area without causing irritation.

Steps to clean your dog’s paws:

Soak a clean cloth or gauze pad in the antiseptic solution.
Gently wipe the area between the toes, making sure to remove any dirt, grass, or foreign objects.
Pat the area dry with a soft towel, as moisture can encourage bacterial growth.

💡 Pro Tip: Use saline solution if you don’t have an antiseptic on hand. It’s gentle and effective for cleaning without stinging your dog.

Can I Use Epsom Salt to Soak My Dog’s Paws?

Yes, Epsom salt soaks are an excellent home treatment for soothing sores between your dog’s toes. Epsom salt is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce swelling, draw out infection, and soothe the discomfort caused by interdigital cysts.

Here’s how to do an Epsom salt soak:

Fill a basin with warm water (not hot) and add ½ cup of Epsom salt.
Let your dog’s paws soak in the solution for 5–10 minutes.
After the soak, gently dry the paws with a clean towel, making sure no moisture is left between the toes.

💡 Pro Tip: If your dog is anxious about soaking their paws, try offering a treat or distraction like a chew toy during the soak.

Can I Use Aloe Vera for My Dog’s Sores?

Yes, aloe vera is a natural remedy that can help soothe and heal sores between your dog’s toes. Aloe has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can reduce pain and promote faster healing. It’s especially helpful for reducing swelling and irritation.

Steps to apply aloe vera:

Use pure aloe vera gel (no added chemicals or fragrances).
Apply a thin layer of gel directly onto the sore area between the toes.
Allow the aloe vera to dry before letting your dog walk or lick the area.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a dog-safe cone or booties if your dog tends to lick the aloe off, as excessive licking can irritate the sores further.

Should I Keep My Dog’s Nails Trimmed to Prevent Sores?

Yes, keeping your dog’s nails trimmed is important for preventing sores and injuries between their toes. Long nails can alter the way your dog walks, putting extra pressure on their paws and causing sores or interdigital cysts to form. Nails that are too long can also make it easier for dirt and debris to get lodged between the toes.

Tips for trimming your dog’s nails:

Use sharp, dog-specific nail clippers or a nail grinder.
Trim the nails gradually, avoiding the quick (the pink part of the nail with blood vessels).
Check and trim your dog’s nails every 2–3 weeks to keep them at an ideal length.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re nervous about trimming your dog’s nails, ask your vet or a groomer to show you the proper technique, or invest in a nail grinder for easier, stress-free trimming.

Can I Use Chamomile Tea as a Natural Remedy?

Chamomile tea can be used as a natural remedy to reduce inflammation and soothe your dog’s sore paws. Chamomile is known for its calming, anti-inflammatory effects, making it an ideal option for treating irritated skin or minor wounds between the toes.

Here’s how to use chamomile tea:

Brew a cup of chamomile tea and let it cool completely.
Soak a clean cloth in the tea and gently press it onto the sores between your dog’s toes.
Repeat this process twice a day for best results.

💡 Pro Tip: You can also brew strong chamomile tea and add it to your dog’s Epsom salt foot bath for a double dose of soothing relief.

Should I Bandage the Sores to Protect Them?

Bandaging can help protect the sores between your dog’s toes from further irritation, but it should be done carefully. Bandages can prevent dirt and bacteria from entering the wounds, but improper bandaging can trap moisture and make the condition worse.

If you decide to bandage the area, follow these steps:

Clean and dry the affected area thoroughly.
Use a sterile gauze pad and wrap it around the sore.
Secure the gauze with self-adhesive bandages that aren’t too tight.
Change the bandage daily or whenever it gets wet or dirty.

💡 Pro Tip: Use dog booties instead of bandages when your dog is outside. They offer protection without the risk of moisture build-up.

Can I Use Coconut Oil on My Dog’s Paws?

Coconut oil is a natural remedy that can help moisturize and soothe sores between your dog’s toes. Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties and acts as a barrier to protect the skin while moisturizing dry or cracked areas. It’s particularly helpful for healing minor wounds and preventing infections.

How to use coconut oil:

Take a small amount of organic coconut oil and rub it between your hands.
Gently massage the oil into the affected areas between your dog’s toes.
Let the oil absorb before allowing your dog to walk or lick their paws.

💡 Pro Tip: Apply coconut oil after your dog’s paw soak for maximum absorption. If your dog licks the oil, it’s non-toxic, but you may want to distract them with a toy to allow the oil time to work.

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Is Apple Cider Vinegar Safe to Use on Dog Sores?

Yes, diluted apple cider vinegar can help disinfect and soothe sores between your dog’s toes. Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it useful for treating mild infections or fungal issues.

How to use apple cider vinegar:

Mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar in a bowl.
Soak a cotton ball in the solution and gently dab it on the sores.
Rinse with warm water after a few minutes to avoid any irritation from the acidity.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid using apple cider vinegar if the sores are open or raw, as the acidity can sting and cause further discomfort.

Can I Prevent Sores from Returning?

Preventing sores between your dog’s toes involves regular paw care and maintenance. Check your dog’s paws frequently for any signs of irritation, redness, or debris that could cause wounds or infections. Here are a few ways to prevent sores from developing again:

Paw hygiene: Regularly clean your dog’s paws after walks to remove dirt, salt, or debris that can irritate the skin.
Moisturizing: Use a dog-friendly paw balm or coconut oil to keep your dog’s paw pads hydrated, especially in extreme weather conditions.
Footwear: Consider using booties during walks in rough terrain or hot pavement to protect their paws.

💡 Pro Tip: Regular grooming and trimming of the fur between your dog’s toes can also help prevent sores by reducing the chance of matting or trapping debris.

When Should I See a Vet for My Dog’s Sores?

You should see a vet if your dog’s sores don’t improve after a few days of home treatment or if they worsen. Signs that indicate it’s time for a vet visit include:

Increased redness, swelling, or warmth around the sore.
Pus or foul odor, which could indicate an infection.
Your dog is limping or showing signs of significant pain.
The sores are spreading or not responding to treatment.

Your vet may prescribe antibiotics, antifungals, or recommend additional tests to determine the underlying cause of the sores.

Comment 1: “How do I know if the sores between my dog’s toes are caused by allergies?”

Allergic reactions are one of the most common causes of sores between a dog’s toes, and there are a few key signs to look for. If the sores are accompanied by redness, excessive licking, and itching, especially in multiple areas (like paws, ears, or belly), allergies could be the root cause. Environmental allergens such as pollen, grasses, or household chemicals can irritate the skin between your dog’s toes, leading to interdigital cysts or pododermatitis.

Food allergies can also cause similar symptoms, with inflammation between the toes being a common sign. If you notice recurring sores, consider discussing an elimination diet with your vet to pinpoint potential food allergens.

💡 Pro Tip: To prevent environmental allergens from causing sores, rinse your dog’s paws with lukewarm water or use hypoallergenic wipes after walks, especially during allergy season.

Comment 2: “What’s the best way to keep my dog from licking their paws when they have sores?”

Preventing your dog from licking their paws is essential to allow the sores to heal properly. Excessive licking can introduce bacteria into the wound, leading to infections or delaying healing. Here are some effective methods to stop licking:

Dog Cone (E-collar): An Elizabethan collar is the most straightforward solution, as it physically prevents your dog from reaching their paws.
Booties: Protective booties or socks can cover the affected area while allowing your dog to move around freely.
Bitter sprays: Apply a bitter-tasting spray around the sore area (but not directly on open wounds) to discourage licking. Most dogs dislike the taste and will avoid licking.

💡 Pro Tip: Provide your dog with chew toys or interactive puzzles to keep them distracted while their paws heal, reducing their urge to lick.

Comment 3: “Is there a natural remedy for soothing inflamed skin between my dog’s toes?”

Yes, a natural remedy like a soothing oatmeal soak can help calm inflamed skin between your dog’s toes. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce irritation, redness, and itching. It works by creating a protective barrier on the skin, which helps moisturize and soothe inflamed areas.

To prepare an oatmeal soak:

Grind plain, unsweetened oatmeal into a fine powder.
Mix the oatmeal powder into a basin of warm water until it turns milky.
Let your dog’s paws soak for 5–10 minutes.

This remedy is especially effective for dogs with allergies or mild skin irritations between their toes.

💡 Pro Tip: For added relief, combine the oatmeal soak with a few drops of chamomile tea to help calm inflammation and speed up healing.

Comment 4: “Can interdigital cysts heal on their own, or do they always need treatment?”

Interdigital cysts can sometimes heal on their own, but it’s important to monitor them closely and provide supportive care to prevent infection or further irritation. In mild cases, home treatments like Epsom salt soaks, coconut oil, and keeping the area clean can promote healing. However, if the cyst is large, painful, or becomes infected (indicated by pus, swelling, or a foul odor), veterinary intervention will likely be necessary.

Cysts that persist or reoccur may require antibiotics, drainage, or even surgical removal, depending on the severity and underlying cause.

💡 Pro Tip: Keeping your dog’s paws clean, dry, and regularly checking between their toes can help catch cysts early, preventing them from growing larger or becoming more serious.

Comment 5: “Is it okay to walk my dog if they have sores between their toes?”

Walking your dog with sores between their toes can cause further irritation and delay healing, so it’s best to limit walks until the sores improve. Exercise on rough surfaces, hot pavement, or dirt trails can expose the sores to dirt, debris, or friction, worsening the condition. If walks are necessary, consider:

Short walks on soft surfaces like grass.
Dog booties to protect the sore area from dirt and moisture.
Paw wax to provide a protective layer between the paws and the ground.

💡 Pro Tip: If your dog is used to daily exercise, substitute their outdoor walks with indoor enrichment activities, like hide-and-seek or puzzle games, while their paws heal.

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Comment 6: “Can bacterial infections cause sores between the toes, and how can I treat them at home?”

Yes, bacterial infections can cause sores between a dog’s toes, often as a result of dirt or debris getting trapped in the skin folds. These infections typically cause redness, swelling, and sometimes pus. While minor infections can be treated at home with antibacterial soaks or sprays, more severe infections may require antibiotics prescribed by your vet.

For home care, use:

Antibacterial soaks: Dilute chlorhexidine in warm water and soak your dog’s paws for 5–10 minutes twice a day.
Wound care: Apply an antibacterial ointment after cleaning, but avoid letting your dog lick the area.

If the infection worsens or doesn’t improve within a few days, consult your vet.

💡 Pro Tip: Keeping the hair trimmed between your dog’s toes can prevent bacterial buildup by allowing the area to stay clean and dry.

Comment 7: “Should I shave the fur between my dog’s toes if they keep getting sores?”

Shaving or trimming the fur between your dog’s toes can help prevent sores from forming or worsening, especially if they frequently get interdigital cysts or infections. Long fur between the toes can trap moisture, dirt, and allergens, which leads to irritation and, ultimately, sores. Keeping the fur short and neat helps the area stay clean and dry.

Use a pair of blunt-tipped grooming scissors or clippers to gently trim the fur between your dog’s toes, being careful not to nick the skin. Regular grooming will reduce the likelihood of infections or cysts reoccurring.

💡 Pro Tip: Trim your dog’s paw fur every few weeks, particularly during wet seasons or if they’re prone to allergies, to maintain healthy paws.

Comment 8: “Can hot pavement cause sores between my dog’s toes, and how can I protect them?”

Yes, hot pavement can cause burns and sores between your dog’s toes, especially during summer months. The skin on your dog’s paws is sensitive, and walking on hot surfaces can lead to blisters, burns, or open sores. To prevent heat-related sores:

Walk your dog during cooler parts of the day (early morning or late evening).
Use dog booties or apply paw wax to protect the paw pads from hot pavement.
Test the pavement by placing your hand on it for 5–10 seconds—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog.

💡 Pro Tip: Always check your dog’s paws after walking on hard surfaces, especially in extreme temperatures, and consider carrying water to rinse off their paws if they get too hot.

Comment 9: “Can I use honey as a natural remedy for my dog’s sores between the toes?”

Yes, honey, particularly manuka honey, can be used as a natural remedy to treat sores between your dog’s toes. Honey has antibacterial, antifungal, and healing properties, making it effective in preventing infections and speeding up recovery. It creates a protective barrier over the wound, keeping out bacteria and promoting healing.

How to use honey for sores:

Clean the area with a mild antiseptic.
Apply a thin layer of manuka honey to the sore.
Cover the area with a sterile bandage or use booties to prevent your dog from licking it off.

💡 Pro Tip: Ensure the honey is medical-grade manuka honey for the best results, as it has higher antibacterial properties than regular honey.

Comment 10: “Can fungal infections cause sores between my dog’s toes, and how do I treat them?”

Yes, fungal infections, such as yeast infections, are a common cause of sores and irritation between your dog’s toes. These infections thrive in moist, warm environments, making the areas between the toes a prime target. Symptoms include redness, itching, and a musty odor.

For home treatment of minor fungal infections:

Use antifungal foot soaks (diluted apple cider vinegar or Epsom salt).
Dry the area thoroughly after each soak to prevent moisture build-up.
Apply an antifungal cream or spray recommended by your vet.

If the infection persists, worsens, or spreads, consult your vet for prescription-strength antifungal treatments.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep your dog’s paws dry after walks or baths, and consider using paw powders to reduce moisture and prevent fungal infections from recurring.

Comment 11: “Can diet play a role in preventing sores between my dog’s toes?”

Yes, diet can play a crucial role in preventing sores between your dog’s toes, especially if they are linked to allergies or an underlying health issue. Certain food intolerances or deficiencies can manifest as skin irritations, leading to inflammation or sores. If your dog is prone to allergic reactions, a diet that includes anti-inflammatory ingredients can help reduce flare-ups and soothe irritated skin.

Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon or fish oil, can help reduce skin inflammation and promote healthy skin and coat. Additionally, choosing a grain-free or limited-ingredient diet may prevent allergies from triggering interdigital cysts.

💡 Pro Tip: If you suspect food allergies are causing the sores, work with your vet to conduct an elimination diet, which involves gradually removing and reintroducing ingredients to identify triggers.

Comment 12: “Can environmental factors, like grass or pollen, cause sores between my dog’s toes?”

Yes, environmental allergens like grass, pollen, or chemicals from lawns can cause irritation and lead to sores between your dog’s toes. These allergens can become trapped in the fur and skin between their toes, leading to inflammation, redness, and itching, which can eventually cause sores. Dogs with seasonal allergies are especially prone to developing these symptoms.

To manage environmental allergens:

After walks, rinse your dog’s paws with lukewarm water to remove any pollen or grass that may be stuck.
Use hypoallergenic wipes to gently clean the area.
Apply a barrier cream or paw balm before walks to protect the skin from direct contact with irritants.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the pollen count in your area and limit outdoor exposure on high pollen days, especially if your dog is prone to allergies that result in sores.

Comment 13: “What should I do if my dog’s sores are bleeding?”

If the sores between your dog’s toes are bleeding, the first step is to clean and stop the bleeding while keeping the area sterile to prevent infection. Bleeding sores can indicate either an injury or the worsening of an underlying condition, such as interdigital cysts or infections. Here’s how to manage bleeding sores:

Clean the area: Gently wash the paws with a mild antiseptic solution like diluted chlorhexidine to remove any dirt or debris.
Stop the bleeding: Apply gentle pressure using a sterile gauze pad. If the bleeding persists, use a styptic powder or cornstarch to help clot the blood.
Cover the wound: Once the bleeding stops, apply a sterile bandage or use dog booties to protect the area.

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If the bleeding doesn’t stop after a few minutes or the sores worsen, consult your vet for further evaluation.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid letting your dog walk on rough surfaces until the bleeding stops completely, and keep the area dry and clean to promote faster healing.

Comment 14: “Can I use a paw balm to prevent and treat sores between my dog’s toes?”

Yes, paw balms are an excellent way to both prevent and treat minor sores between your dog’s toes, particularly those caused by dryness, cracking, or irritation. Paw balms provide a protective layer that shields your dog’s paws from harsh elements like hot pavement, salt, and ice, which can exacerbate sores.

Choose a natural paw balm that contains ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, and coconut oil to soothe and moisturize the skin. Regularly applying balm before and after walks can help keep the skin between your dog’s toes soft, supple, and less prone to irritation.

💡 Pro Tip: If your dog has sore, cracked paws, apply a thick layer of paw balm before bed and cover the paws with dog socks to allow the balm to penetrate deeply overnight.

Comment 15: “What’s the best way to clean between my dog’s toes if they have sores?”

The best way to clean between your dog’s toes when they have sores is to use a gentle antiseptic solution that cleans without causing additional irritation. You want to ensure that the area stays free of dirt, debris, and bacteria to prevent infection and promote healing. Follow these steps for safe cleaning:

Use a diluted antiseptic: Prepare a solution with chlorhexidine or iodine diluted in water.
Soak a clean cloth or gauze in the solution and gently clean between the toes, focusing on the sore areas.
Dry thoroughly: After cleaning, pat the area dry with a soft towel to avoid leaving moisture, which can breed bacteria.

💡 Pro Tip: If the sores are particularly inflamed, consider using a soft brush to gently clean the area without rubbing or aggravating the skin further.

Comment 16: “Are fungal infections more common in certain dog breeds?”

Yes, certain dog breeds are more prone to fungal infections between the toes due to their physical characteristics or predisposition to skin issues. Breeds with wrinkled skin, thick fur, or webbed feet, like Bulldogs, Retrievers, Poodles, and Spaniels, are more susceptible to moisture build-up and fungal growth in the folds between their toes. These breeds often require more frequent grooming and cleaning to prevent fungal infections from developing.

In these breeds, it’s especially important to:

Keep the area between the toes clean and dry after walks or baths.
Trim the fur between the toes regularly to improve airflow and reduce moisture.
Use antifungal sprays or wipes if your dog is prone to recurring fungal infections.

💡 Pro Tip: If you have a breed prone to fungal infections, check their paws regularly for signs of redness, odor, or excessive licking, which can indicate the start of a fungal issue.

Comment 17: “Can I use a diluted vinegar rinse for fungal infections between my dog’s toes?”

Yes, a diluted vinegar rinse can help treat fungal infections between your dog’s toes due to vinegar’s natural antifungal and antibacterial properties. Apple cider vinegar, in particular, can help balance the skin’s pH, which makes it less hospitable for fungal growth.

Here’s how to make a vinegar rinse:

Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl.
Soak your dog’s paws in the solution for 5–10 minutes.
After soaking, dry the paws thoroughly with a clean towel to prevent moisture build-up.

This treatment works well for mild fungal infections or as a preventative measure, but consult your vet for persistent or severe infections.

💡 Pro Tip: If your dog has open sores, avoid using vinegar, as the acidity can cause discomfort. Instead, use an antifungal spray recommended by your vet.

Comment 18: “Is licking a sign that my dog’s sores are infected?”

Yes, excessive licking can be a sign that your dog’s sores are infected or causing significant discomfort. When a dog licks a sore repeatedly, it’s usually an attempt to relieve pain or irritation. While a small amount of licking can help keep a wound clean, excessive licking can introduce bacteria and exacerbate the infection.

Common signs of infection include:

Redness and swelling around the sore.
Pus or discharge.
A foul odor coming from the affected area.
Your dog showing signs of pain when you touch the area.

If you notice your dog licking the sores excessively or showing any of these signs, consult your vet, as antibiotics or antifungal treatments may be necessary.

💡 Pro Tip: To prevent your dog from licking infected sores, use a protective cone or booties and apply a vet-approved topical treatment to soothe the area.

Comment 19: “How often should I check my dog’s paws for sores if they’re prone to them?”

If your dog is prone to sores or infections between their toes, it’s important to check their paws daily or after every walk, especially if they’ve been in rough terrain or grassy areas. Regular inspections will help you catch potential issues early before they develop into more severe problems.

Here’s what to look for during checks:

Redness or irritation between the toes.
Swelling or tenderness.
Foreign objects like grass seeds or thorns.
Any unusual discharge or smell.

Make paw checks a routine part of your dog’s grooming, and give special attention to their paws if they’ve been walking on hot pavement, icy surfaces, or grassy fields, as these environments can lead to irritation or infections.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep a paw cleaning station near the entrance to your home, with wipes, antiseptic spray, and a soft towel, so you can easily inspect and clean your dog’s paws after every outdoor adventure.