Best Ways to Treat Inflamed Dog Paws Naturally at Home

It’s tough to watch your dog constantly licking or limping because their paws are red, swollen, or painful. You want to help — fast — but knowing what’s causing those inflamed dog paws, and what to do about it, can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s from allergies, an injury, or something else, paw inflammation is one of the most common problems dog owners face.

The good news? You don’t need to be a vet to provide real relief at home — safely and naturally. This guide will walk you through what inflamed dog paws actually are, what might be causing the irritation, and how you can treat it with simple, science-backed tips.

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What Are Inflamed Dog Paws?

When your dog’s paws are inflamed, they might look red, swollen, or feel warm to the touch. Your pup may be chewing, licking, limping, or avoiding walking altogether. This condition is known as pododermatitis.

It can be caused by a variety of things — allergies (food or environmental), infections (bacterial or fungal), insect bites, injuries, or even autoimmune diseases. Sometimes, it’s just the result of hot pavement or salt on winter sidewalks.

According to Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer of the American Kennel Club, “Inflammation is a symptom, not a disease. It’s important to address the root cause, but also to relieve the dog’s discomfort as soon as possible.”

Safe & Soothing Remedies to Help Treat Inflamed Dog Paws

Before you reach for medications or consider costly treatments, try these gentle, effective solutions that many vets recommend for mild to moderate cases.

Epsom Salt Soaks
A warm foot soak using unscented Epsom salts can help reduce inflammation and draw out irritants. Epsom salt is a natural anti-inflammatory and can provide almost instant relief.
How to use: Dissolve 1/2 cup of Epsom salts in a bowl of warm water. Soak your dog’s paws for 5–10 minutes once or twice daily. Make sure to dry the paws thoroughly afterward.
Chamomile Tea Rinse
Chamomile has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s commonly used in skin care for both humans and pets.
How to use: Brew a strong cup of chamomile tea and let it cool. Dip a clean cloth in the tea and gently pat your dog’s paws, or pour it over them as a rinse.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
These healthy fats, found in fish oils, are proven to reduce inflammation from the inside out. They’re especially helpful for dogs with allergy-related paw issues.
Tip: Add a dog-safe fish oil supplement to your pet’s meals. Look for products with vet approval or certifications (like the NASC Quality Seal).
Avoiding Triggers
If your dog’s paws flare up during certain seasons, pollen or grass could be to blame. Environmental allergies are a leading cause of paw inflammation.
How to help: Wipe your dog’s paws with a damp cloth or hypoallergenic pet wipe after walks. Try to avoid high-allergen areas like grassy fields during peak seasons.
Calendula Ointment
Calendula is a gentle herbal remedy often used for minor wounds and skin irritations. It’s safe for most dogs and works well on sore, itchy paws.
Usage tip: Apply a thin layer to the affected paw 1–2 times daily. Make sure your dog doesn’t lick it off immediately — distract them with a toy or treat.
Proper Nail and Hair Trimming
Long nails or overgrown hair between the toes can trap dirt and bacteria, leading to infections or irritation.
Preventive tip: Keep your dog’s nails trimmed regularly and gently clip excess fur between their paw pads using round-tip scissors or grooming clippers.
Switching to Hypoallergenic Dog Food
If the issue is internal, such as food allergies, no amount of ointment will fully solve the problem. In these cases, diet matters.
Try this: Choose a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic dog food recommended by a vet. Common allergens include beef, dairy, chicken, wheat, and soy.
Apple Cider Vinegar Paw Soak
This age-old remedy can help balance your dog’s skin pH and kill off yeast or bacteria on the paws. Be cautious — only use on unbroken skin.
How to use: Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 2 parts water. Soak paws for up to 5 minutes, then rinse and dry thoroughly.

Expert Insights & What the Science Says

According to a 2022 study published in the Journal of Veterinary Dermatology, omega-3 supplements significantly improved itching and skin inflammation in dogs with allergic dermatitis — a common cause of red, irritated paws.

Veterinary dermatologist Dr. Fiona Bateman from the University of Georgia states, “In many cases, paw inflammation is related to an underlying allergy. Identifying and managing that allergy is key to long-term relief.”

This means a combination of internal (diet, supplements) and external (soaks, creams, hygiene) treatments often works best.

Extra Tips That Might Help

Try Dog Booties Outdoors
They protect paws from hot pavement, winter salt, and allergens. Some dogs take time to get used to them — try short walks at first.
Monitor for Licking
Excessive licking can worsen inflammation and even lead to infection. A soft cone or distraction toy may help reduce the habit during healing.
Probiotic Supplements
A healthy gut supports immune health. While not a cure-all, probiotics can reduce allergic reactions and boost your dog’s natural defenses.
Use a Gentle Paw Balm
Look for products with natural ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil. Avoid anything with artificial fragrances or alcohols.

Always check with your vet before trying new remedies — especially if your dog has open wounds, chronic issues, or other health conditions.

Conclusion: Your Dog’s Paws, Your Care

Inflamed dog paws can be a painful and frustrating problem — for you and your furry friend. But with a little knowledge, consistency, and some gentle care, you can help soothe those sore paws and prevent flare-ups in the future.

Keep in mind: what works for one dog may not work for another. It’s okay to experiment (safely) and adjust based on what helps your pup most. When in doubt, team up with a trusted vet who can help identify the root cause and guide you to the right solution.

At the end of the day, your dog relies on you to be their voice and caretaker. A little paw care goes a long way in keeping tails wagging and feet happy.