Chihuahua With Swollen Toe But No Pain

by Tina
(Australia QLD)

My Chihuahua has a swollen firm to touch no pain toes for over a week.. was painful at first, and licked it constantly, i soaked it in diluted betaden, and wrapped it up to stop licking, but he pulled off bandage.. he does not lick it any more, and does not hurt him to touch, and it dose not look feisty as it did but still swollen and red.. no warmth or puss..

Editor Thoughts on Swollen Dog Toe

Hi Tina,

Sorry to hear about your dog's swollen toe.It appears from the image that the toe is swollen and reddish in coloration, however the skin surface appears smooth and without any visible puncture wounds or an open wound.

Here are some thoughts on possible causes and what can be done depending on the underlying cause:

Localized Infection or Abscess (most likely cause):

A localized infection might have started due to a minor injury or foreign object getting lodged into the paw or toe. The initial pain and constant licking are indicative of this. An abscess might have formed earlier which has since drained on its own or reduced in size due to your intervention.

If this is the cause, it would be best to visit a veterinarian for a physical examination. They may prescribe antibiotics or other treatments to resolve any lingering infection.

Here are a few other possibilities:

Insect Bite or Sting:

Swelling and redness could result from an insect bite or sting, which might have caused an initial painful reaction, leading your dog to lick the area constantly.

For mild reactions, you can monitor the toe for a few days. If the swelling doesn't reduce, seek veterinary advice. For severe reactions, especially if swelling spreads or your dog exhibits other symptoms, consult a vet immediately.

Sprain or Strain:

Dogs can sometimes sprain or strain their toes during play or due to a sudden movement. This could cause initial pain, swelling, and redness.

If this turns out to be the case, limit your dog's activity and monitor for improvement. If there's no improvement in a week or the condition worsens, see a vet.

Foreign Body:

A foreign object like a thorn or shard of glass might be embedded in the toe, causing irritation and swelling.

Inspect the paw carefully. If you can see the object and it's superficial, you might be able to remove it gently with tweezers. However, if it's deeply embedded or not visible, a vet visit is necessary.

Allergic Reaction:

Last, dogs can have allergic reactions to various substances, which might cause localized swelling and redness.

If you suspect an allergen, try to remove or avoid it. If the swelling doesn't go down or other symptoms appear, consult a veterinarian.

In all cases, it's crucial to monitor your dog for any changes in behavior, appetite, or the condition of the toe. If there's any doubt or if the condition worsens, always consult with a veterinarian.

All the best to you and your dog. Please keep us up to date on your Chihuahua's condition.

Jeff
Editor and Publisher
Dog Health Guide

Please note: This information is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your pet's veterinarian. Always consult a vet for professional medical advice about your pet's health.