Why is my dog’s wound hot and swollen after several days? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog’s wound is still hot and swollen after several days, it may be taking longer than expected to settle. That can happen for a few different reasons, including irritation, movement, licking, trapped moisture, or infection, so it’s worth keeping a close eye on it.
It’s not something to ignore, especially if the wound looks worse rather than better. You can check a few practical things at home before deciding what to do next.
Things To Check
1. Look at whether the swelling is getting bigger, staying the same, or slowly improving.
2. Check for redness, heat, discharge, smell, scabbing, or skin that looks wet or shiny.
3. See if your dog is licking, biting, rubbing, or favouring that area.
4. Think about whether the wound has been kept clean and dry, or whether it has been getting muddy, damp, or dirty.
5. Check whether the wound is in an area that moves a lot, such as a leg, paw, chest, or near a joint.
6. Notice if your dog seems more uncomfortable than before, especially when the area is touched.
7. Look for any signs that the wound may have opened, split, or started draining more than it was.
8. Take a photo so you can compare it over the next day or two.
Common Causes
The most common reason is simply that the wound is being irritated by movement, licking, or rubbing, which can keep the area inflamed.
Another common cause is trapped moisture or dirt, especially if the wound is in a spot that gets dirty easily or is hard to keep dry.
A wound can also stay hot and swollen if healing is slower than expected because the skin is under strain, or if the area has become infected.
Less commonly, a foreign body, deeper tissue damage, or a wound that’s opened up again can keep the swelling going.
What To Do
Keep the area as clean and dry as you reasonably can, and prevent your dog from licking or scratching at it.
Limit muddy walks, rough play, and anything that keeps stretching or rubbing the wound.
Keep an eye on whether the heat and swelling are improving from one day to the next, rather than just waiting to see if they disappear on their own.
If the wound starts to smell, produce discharge, open up, or become more painful, it needs more attention.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to your vet if the wound is still hot and swollen after several days without improvement, or if it’s getting worse, draining, smelling, or becoming more painful. You should also get advice sooner if your dog seems unwell, is off food, or the wound is in a place that keeps reopening.
Products That May Help
If your dog has a wound that needs regular checking or gentle day-to-day care, this collection may be useful for supporting your routine at home.
Related Questions
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Should I clean my dog’s wound every day?
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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.