Dog Interdigital Dermatitis Care Guide

Dogs use their paws every day to run, jump, and explore the world. However, the skin between their toes is easily irritated and prone to infection, leading to interdigital dermatitis (also called interdigital furunculosis). If left untreated, it can cause pain and even make your dog refuse to walk.

1. What is Interdigital Dermatitis?

Interdigital dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin between a dog’s toes. Common causes include:

• Trauma or foreign objects: such as small stones or grass seeds lodged between the toes.

• Moist environments: prolonged contact with wet ground promotes bacterial or fungal growth.

• Allergic reactions: food allergies or contact allergies.

• Parasitic infections: such as mites.

• Secondary issues: overgrown nails, excessive friction between toes.

2. Common Symptoms

Signs that may indicate interdigital dermatitis include:

• Redness and swelling between the toes

• Skin erosion, discharge, or pus

• Constant licking or chewing of paws

• Limping or lameness

• Nodules or abscess formation

3. Home Care Methods

If symptoms are mild, owners can try home care:

1. Clean the area

   • Rinse the interdigital space with warm water or diluted iodine solution.

   • Do this once or twice daily to maintain cleanliness.

2. Keep it dry

   • Dry thoroughly after cleaning; use a hair dryer on cool setting if needed.

   • Avoid prolonged exposure to water or damp surfaces.

3. Apply anti-inflammatory treatment

   • Use veterinarian-recommended pet-safe ointments or sprays.

   • Do not apply human medications, as they may be toxic.

4. Prevent licking and chewing

   • Use an Elizabethan collar (cone) to stop the dog from worsening the wound.

5. Weight management

   • Overweight dogs are more prone to interdigital issues due to friction and pressure.

4. When to See a Veterinarian

Seek veterinary care immediately if:

• Redness and swelling worsen, or discharge increases

• Abscesses or draining tracts develop

• The dog shows severe pain or refuses to walk

• No improvement after 3–5 days of home care

• Systemic symptoms appear (fever, loss of appetite)

5. Prevention Tips

• Check paws regularly to remove stones, debris, or foreign bodies

• Keep paws dry, especially after rain or swimming

• Trim excess hair between toes to reduce bacterial buildup

• Maintain regular parasite control, especially against mites

• Manage diet to minimize allergens

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