Recognizing and solving inflamed paws in your dog
Dog paws are fragile and can become inflamed for a variety of reasons. Inflamed paws can cause your dog pain and discomfort, and even lead to lameness. In this blog we discuss the signs that your dog suffers from inflamed paws, the causes of this problem and what you can do to treat and prevent the inflammation.
Signs of inflamed paws in your dog
It's important to recognize the signs of inflamed paws in your dog so you can take quick action to help him. Here are some signs to look out for.
- Redness and swelling : Look for redness or swelling around your dog's paws. This could be a sign of inflammation.
- Licking and chewing : If your dog is constantly licking, chewing or biting his paws, this could indicate irritation or inflammation.
- Heat : If your dog's paws feel warmer than normal, this could indicate an inflammatory response.
- Limping : Your dog may limp or have difficulty walking due to painful paws.
- Difficulty getting up or jumping : Your dog may have difficulty getting up or jumping due to the pain.
- Wounds or scabs : inflamed paws can lead to wounds or scabs on the skin.
- Change in behavior : Some dogs become lethargic or aggressive when they suffer from painful paws.
Causes of inflamed paws
Why does your dog have inflamed paws? Why does your dog have inflamed paws? The reasons are very varied.
1. Infections
Bacteria, fungi and parasites are small invaders that can infect your dog's paws. This can lead to redness, swelling, pain and itching. Sometimes you even see pus or discharge coming from the paw.
2. Allergies
Is your dog allergic to pollen, grass, food or other substances? This can result in itching and inflammation of the legs. Dogs with allergies often lick and chew their paws obsessively, which worsens the inflammation.
3. Trauma
A cut, sprain or fracture: accidents can lead to painful inflammation in your dog's paws. Swelling, pain and lameness are often the symptoms.
4. Autoimmune diseases
Some autoimmune diseases, such as lupus erythematosus, can cause inflammation in the paws. Symptoms vary, but may indicate fever, joint pain and lethargy.
5. Other causes
In addition to the above culprits, there are a number of factors that can lead to inflamed paws:
- Too much walking on hard surfaces;
- Exposure to extreme temperatures;
- Contact with chemicals;
- Inadequate care of the paws.
Not sure what's causing your dog's inflamed paws? Always go to the vet. The vet can determine the cause and prescribe the correct treatment.
Prevention of inflamed paws
Do you want to prevent your furry friend from suffering from inflamed paws? Here are some helpful tips:
Keep your dog's paws clean and dry
After a walk, especially in wet weather, it is important to thoroughly clean and dry your dog's paws. This can help prevent bacteria and fungi that can lead to inflammation.
Provide a healthy and varied diet
A balanced diet not only helps with your dog's overall health, but can also contribute to healthy skin and paws. Make sure your dog gets enough nutrients from high-quality food.
Avoid extreme temperatures and chemicals
Try to keep your dog away from extreme temperatures and avoid contact with harmful chemicals, such as those found on roads or in gardens. This can help prevent irritation and inflammation of the paws.
Don't let your dog walk too much on hard surfaces
Too much walking on hard surfaces can lead to excessive wear and irritation on your dog's paws. Try to alternate between soft and hard surfaces during walks and avoid long walks on asphalt or concrete.
Use probiotics for recovery and prevention
Probiotics help maintain healthy intestinal flora in your dog, which in turn contributes to healthy skin and paws. Choose to add probiotics to your dog's diet, especially if he is prone to paw inflammation.
Probiotics Forte Anti-Itching & Paw Licking
Our Probiotics Forte Anti-Itch & Paw Licking treats are specially designed for dogs that suffer from itching problems and excessive licking of their paws. But how exactly can these treats help your dog's inflamed paws?
- Reduction of itching and inflammation : Quercetin, colostrum and fish oil have anti-inflammatory properties. They help reduce itching and reduce swelling of the paws.
- Immune system support : Colostrum contains nutrients that strengthen your dog's immune system. This helps fight infections that the inflamed paws can cause.
- Improving skin condition : evening primrose oil, borage oil and fish oil contain important fatty acids that restore and hydrate your dog's skin barrier. This helps heal the skin and protect it from further irritation.
By regularly using our Probiotics Forte Anti-Itch & Paw Licking treats, your dog will not only suffer less from itching and inflammation in his paws, but he will also experience an improved quality of life. Recommended by veterinarians and approved by nutritionists, these treats are safe and effective for long-term use. And best of all? They are super tasty and easy to serve!