Interdigital Cysts on Dog's Paws: Causes and Prevention

Our four-legged furry friends bring infinite joy and adventure into our lives, but sometimes, even our pups can face some unpleasant challenges. One common issue that your dog may experience is the development of blisters in between their toes, known as interdigital furuncles or cysts. But don’t you worry! In this blog post, we'll discover the causes of these bothersome blisters, the dog breeds most affected by them, and explore a paw-tastic solution using the Squishface Wrinkle Wipes & Wrinkle Paste powerful duo to provide soothing relief for your furry friend.

Picture of interdigital cysts on a bulldog's paw

Signs and Symptoms of Interdigital Cysts in Dogs:

  • Swelling between the toes or paw pads
  • Redness or inflammation in the affected area
  • Limping or favoring the affected paw
  • Pain or discomfort when the cyst is touched
  • Visible discharge or pus from the cyst
  • Formation of a firm, raised bump or nodule
  • Chewing or licking at the affected paw excessively
  • Foul odor coming from the cyst
  • Hair loss or fur matting around the affected area
  • Difficulty walking or reluctance to put weight on the paw
  • Recurring cysts in the same location

Causes of Interdigital Cysts:

Interdigital cysts are painful, fluid-filled blisters that occur between a dog's toes. These blisters can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Friction and Irritation: Dogs who spend excessive time on hard surfaces or engage in intense physical activities may experience friction between their toes, leading to blisters.
  • Bacterial and Fungal Infections: Moist and warm environments between the toes create an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. When these microorganisms invade the skin, they can cause infections that result in cysts.
  • Mites and Parasites: Certain mites and parasites such as Demodex or Sarcoptes can burrow into the skin between the toes, triggering inflammation and the development of interdigital cysts.

Dog Breeds Most Affected:

While blisters can affect any dog, certain breeds are more prone to developing these blisters between their toes. Some of the most commonly affected breeds include:

  • English Bulldogs: Bulldogs have short, wrinkled skin and a unique foot structure, which can make them more prone to interdigital cysts.
  • Retrievers: Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are an active breed, and their constant running and playing can lead to friction and irritation between the toes.
  • Cocker SpanielsThe long fur on their feet can trap moisture and debris, making them more susceptible to cysts.
  • Basset Hounds: Their long, floppy ears and loose skin can create an environment where moisture and debris accumulate between the toes.
  • Dachshunds: Their short legs and long bodies can lead to friction and pressure on their feet, which may result in these uncomfortable blisters.
  • German Shepherds: German Shepherds are prone to allergies and skin issues, which can result in the formation of interdigital cysts.

Product picture of Squishface Wrinkle Wipes & Wrinkle Paste

Effective Dog Care Products to Help Dog Blisters:

Using Squishface Wrinkle Wipes to Fight Bacteria, Yeast, and Fungus:

  • Anti-Bacterial Properties: The wipes contain antibacterial agents that help combat bacteria responsible for infections, further reducing the risk of future complications.
  • Anti-Fungal Properties: Fungal infections can be a common cause of blisters amongst dogs. Wrinkle Wipes contain anti-fungal and anti-microbial ingredients that assist in clearing up any fungal issues that a pup may experience. With the help of Ketoconazole and Chlorhexidine, these ingredients work as a powerful combination to get your pup feeling better in no time! Plus, they contain Phytosphingosine which has many abilities including strengthening the skin barrier, soothing inflammation, and combating microbes.
  • Convenience: Squishface Wrinkle Wipes make it super convenient and easy to wipe your dog free of dirt and debris that can build up throughout the day. It’s recommended to take a wipe and wipe down the affected area at least once a day consistently to see changes.

Using Squishface Wrinkle Paste for soothing effects:

  • Soothing Relief: The Squishface Wrinkle Paste Formula was created to soothe and calm irritated skin to help provide immediate relief for your dog (in this case, their blisters). They contain an only-essential ingredient list, including calming and natural ingredients such as shea butter, avocado oil, and coconut oil.
  • Multi-purpose uses: Squishface Wrinkle Paste can also be used on various parts of your dog’s body, including their tear stains, wrinkles, nose rope, tail pockets, and of course in-between their toes. 

Click here for a helpful TikTok guide on how to effectively apply wrinkle paste in between your dog's toes.

    The Bottom Line:

    Blisters can be a source of discomfort and pain for our beloved furry friends. By understanding the causes behind these blisters and utilizing effective solutions such as Squishface Wrinkle Wipes and Wrinkle Paste, we can help alleviate our furry friends’ discomfort. With a little care and attention, your four-legged buddy will be back to wagging their tail and enjoying their adventures in no time!

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