What should I check if my dog’s paw pads smell unusual after burning them? | arlo.® Atlas
Share This Guide
Read time: 3 minutes
Overview
If your dog’s paw pads smell unusual after burning them, check the pads and the skin between the toes for signs of damage, trapped dirt, moisture or early infection. A burnt paw can smell different for a few reasons, and the smell alone doesn’t tell you exactly what’s going on.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the smell started straight after the burn or developed later, as a change over time can give useful context.
2. Look closely at the paw pads for blisters, peeling, darkened areas, raw skin or any split skin.
3. Check between the toes for redness, dampness, debris, stuck grit or discharge.
4. Feel the paw gently for heat, swelling or tenderness compared with the other paws.
5. Notice whether your dog is licking, chewing, limping or avoiding putting weight on the paw.
6. Check for a sour, yeasty or unpleasant odour that seems stronger in damp skin or in areas your dog has been licking.
7. Consider where the burn happened, such as hot pavement, sand, floors or embers, because the type of surface can affect how deep the damage may be.
Common Causes
The most common reason for an unusual smell is damaged skin mixed with moisture, dirt or licking after the burn. Burnt pads can also smell odd if the area is beginning to soften, scab or heal.
Sometimes the smell comes from irritation between the toes, especially if the paw has been licked a lot or kept damp. Less commonly, a burn can become infected or hide a deeper injury under the surface.
What To Do
Keep your dog off hot surfaces and away from anything that might have caused the burn. Check the paw gently and keep the area clean and dry without rubbing it hard.
Stop your dog licking the paw if possible, since licking can make the area wetter and more irritated. If the paw is dirty, rinse it carefully with cool or lukewarm water and pat it dry.
Watch for changes over the next 24 to 48 hours, including more smell, swelling, discharge, limping or increasing pain. If the smell is mild and the skin looks intact, monitoring at home may be enough for the moment, but keep a close eye on it.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet promptly if the paw pad is blistered, open, very painful, swollen, leaking, or your dog is limping or refusing to bear weight. You should also get advice if the smell is getting stronger, there’s pus or bleeding, or the burn was from a chemical, very hot surface or embers.
Products That May Help
If your dog’s paws need gentle routine cleaning after time outdoors, this collection may be useful as part of day-to-day paw and coat care.
Related Questions
Should I clean my dog’s burnt paw pads at home?
How can I tell if a paw burn is infected?
How long does it take for dog paw pads to heal?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.