What should I do if my dog has a cut paw pad? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog has a cut paw pad, the first step is to keep them calm and check how deep it looks. Small surface cuts often need gentle cleaning, rest and close monitoring, but deeper cuts, bleeding that won't stop, or anything that seems very painful should be assessed by a vet.
There can be several causes, including sharp stones, broken glass, rough ground, thorns or a nail-related injury, so it helps to look at the whole paw rather than just the cut itself.
Things To Check
1. See if the cut is still bleeding or if the blood has already stopped.
2. Look for dirt, grit, glass, thorns or other debris in the paw.
3. Check whether the pad is just scratched or whether the cut looks deeper or gaping.
4. Notice if your dog is licking, chewing or avoiding weight on the paw.
5. Check for swelling, heat, redness or discharge around the area.
6. Compare the injured paw with the others to see if there are any other cuts, broken nails or sore spots.
7. Think about where the injury happened, such as on a walk, in the garden, after exercise or on rough ground.
Common Causes
Most cut paw pads happen from sharp or rough surfaces such as gravel, glass, stones, ice, thorns or damaged flooring.
Sometimes a broken nail, trapped debris or a puncture from something small can make the paw sore even if the cut looks minor at first.
Less commonly, a deeper wound or something stuck in the paw may make the dog keep licking, limping or lifting the foot.
What To Do
If the cut is small and your dog is otherwise comfortable, gently rinse the area with clean lukewarm water and carefully remove any loose dirt you can see.
Pat the paw dry and keep your dog from licking it as much as possible, since that can irritate the area and slow settling.
Limit walk time and avoid rough ground until the pad looks calmer.
Check the paw again later the same day and over the next day or two for any change in swelling, pain, bleeding or discharge.
If the cut seems deeper than a surface nick, keeps opening, or your dog is clearly uncomfortable, it’s sensible to contact your vet for advice.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the cut is deep, won’t stop bleeding, has something stuck in it, or your dog is reluctant to put weight on the paw. It’s also a good idea to call if you notice swelling, discharge, a bad smell, or the paw seems increasingly painful over time.
Products That May Help
For a cut paw pad, owners often find it useful to keep paw care and cleaning supplies together so they can gently clean the area, dry it well and keep an eye on changes at home.
Related Questions
Should I bandage my dog’s cut paw pad?
How can I stop my dog licking a paw cut?
How do I know if my dog’s paw needs a vet?
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.