What should I do if I can see a foreign object in my dog’s paw? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If you can see a foreign object in your dog’s paw, don’t pull at it unless it’s tiny, loose and clearly sitting on the surface. A splinter, grass seed, thorn, bit of glass or other debris can sometimes be removed safely, but it may also be embedded deeper than it looks. There are a few simple checks you can do first, and if the paw is painful, swollen, bleeding or the object seems stuck, it’s best to get veterinary advice.
Things To Check
1. Check whether your dog is licking, holding the paw up, limping, or reacting when you touch the area.
2. Look closely between the toes, around the pads, and at the nail beds for anything sticking out.
3. See if the skin is broken, bleeding, red, swollen, or warm compared with the other paws.
4. Notice whether the object looks loose on the surface or appears to be embedded in the skin.
5. Check for discharge, a bad smell, scabbing, or signs the area has been there for more than a day.
6. Think about where your dog has been, such as long grass, woodland, gravel, beaches or rough ground.
7. Make sure your dog is calm before you inspect the paw, as a painful dog may jerk away and make the area worse.
Common Causes
The most common causes are grass seeds, small splinters, thorns, gravel, stones or tiny bits of glass or grit that get caught in the paw. Sometimes the problem is a nail injury or a small cut that makes it look like there’s an object present. Less commonly, something may have worked deeper into the skin and started to irritate the area.
What To Do
If the object is very small and clearly sitting on the surface, you may be able to remove it gently with clean tweezers, but stop if it won’t come away easily or your dog is uncomfortable. If there’s dirt around the area, rinse it carefully with lukewarm water and pat it dry. Keep your dog from licking the paw while you monitor it, and check the area again over the next few hours for swelling, pain or discharge. If you’re unsure what you’re looking at, it’s safer to leave it alone and have it checked.
Products That May Help
If your dog often picks up debris in their paws during walks, a few simple grooming and hygiene essentials can help you keep the area clean and make regular checks easier.
Related Questions
How do I know if something is stuck deep in my dog’s paw?
Should I soak my dog’s paw if I can see a splinter?
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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.