A Splinter
Splinters can be painful, but they’re also dangerous if they cause an infection. Dogs are especially prone to splinter injuries because of the rough surfaces they walk on. Splinters can become infected, and if they’re not removed correctly, they can cause serious damage to your dog’s paw pads.Infection
If you notice that your dog’s paws are swollen, especially if they’re hot to the touch and appear red or irritated, they may have an infection. In this case, it’s important to take action quickly to ensure that your dog gets the treatment they need. Bacterial or fungal infections can affect your dog’s paws and lead to swelling and discomfort. Unfortunately, both types are common in dogs. Symptoms of bacterial infections include:- Inflammation
- Swelling
- Redness
- Pain
Underlying Medical Problems
So what kinds of underlying medical problems can cause a dog’s paw pads to swell up? Arthritis can affect the joints in your dog’s paws, causing pain and inflammation. If your dog has arthritis, it’s likely that he’ll start limping on one or more of his paws. Other medical problems that can cause pain and swelling in a dog’s paws include:- Tumors (cancerous or benign)
- Diabetes
- Injuries
- Allergies
- Poisoning
- Inflammatory diseases (such as lupus)
