Did You Know Certain Dog Breeds Are Prone to Interdigital Cysts? Here's Why.

If your dog keeps licking their paws or limping for no clear reason, they might be dealing with something called interdigital cysts. These pesky bumps can form between your dog’s toes and cause a lot of discomfort. Did you know some dog breeds are more likely to get them than others?

In this post, we’ll walk you through what interdigital cysts are, which dog breeds are more prone to them, signs to look out for, and how to help your pup stay happy and healthy with some easy dog grooming and dog care tips. 🐾

What Are Interdigital Cysts?

Interdigital cysts are inflamed lumps that form between a dog’s toes. They’re usually caused by things like ingrown hairs, trapped debris, allergies, or even just moisture that gets stuck between those tiny toe folds. Over time, these cysts can become infected, filled with pus, and may even be super painful for your pup.

Breeds More Prone to Interdigital Cysts

Some breeds are just built in a way that makes them more likely to develop cysts. Breeds with lots of skin folds, short bristly hairs, or who have wide paws are especially at risk. Here are a few commonly affected pups:

• English Bulldogs – Their adorable wrinkles and stocky build make them a top candidate for cysts.

• French Bulldogs – Like their English cousins, Frenchies have tight, thick paws that can trap moisture.

• Labrador Retrievers – Labs have short, dense hair that can get pushed back into the skin, causing irritation.

• Shar Peis – All those wrinkles can be cute and problematic.

• Boxers – Their sensitive skin and energetic lifestyle can lead to inflammation.

• Dachshunds & Basset Hounds – Short legs + low to the ground = more contact with allergens and irritants.

Don’t worry — with the right dog grooming routine and dog care tips, you can help prevent or manage these cysts, even in breeds that are more prone to them.

Signs Your Dog Might Have a Cyst

Keep an eye out for these common signs:

• Red, swollen areas between the toes

• Limping or favoring one paw

• Constant licking or chewing at the feet

• Visible bumps or sores

• Bad odor coming from the paws

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to take action. Prevention is key — and that starts with proper cleaning and care!

Clean Between Those Toes with Squishface Wrinkle Wipes

One of the best dog care tips we can offer? Keep those paw folds clean and dry! Squishface Wrinkle Wipes are a gentle and effective way to clean the area between your dog’s toes. These wipes are designed to fight off the bacteria, yeast, and fungus that love to hide in warm, moist crevices. They're perfect for breeds with wrinkles, folds, or tight paws — and they’re free of harsh chemicals, so they’re safe for daily use.

Just a quick swipe between the toes after a walk, bath, or playtime can make a huge difference in preventing those painful cysts.

Help Protect with Squishface Toe Paste

Once the area is clean, follow up with Squishface Toe Paste — a must-have in your dog's daily grooming toolkit. This paw-saver product is packed with natural ingredients and works in multiple ways:

• Hydrates & Shields: Natural oils nourish the skin while creating a protective barrier that keeps out moisture and bacteria.

• Absorbs Dampness Fast: Ingredients like kaolin clay and baking soda draw out wetness that can lead to infections.

• Calms Irritated Paws: Shea butter, oregano oil, and sunflower seed oil help reduce redness and discomfort.

• Lick-Safe & Natural: Because let’s face it, dogs don’t always follow the rules. This paste is made with all-natural, safe ingredients.

• Mess-Free Application: It goes on smooth, dries quickly, and won’t leave a sticky mess behind. You may even cover their paws up with the help of Squishface baby socks.

• Stops Infections Before They Start: Keeps those hidden crevices between toes dry and healthy — exactly where cysts love to grow.

The Bottom Line:

Interdigital cysts may be common in some breeds, but with the right dog care tips and grooming tools, you can keep them at bay. Regular cleaning, checking for signs of irritation, and using products like Squishface Wrinkle Wipes and Toe Paste are easy ways to protect your dog’s paws and keep them comfortable.

Remember: healthy paws = a happy pup. 🐶

Next time you're doing your dog grooming routine, take a moment to check between those toes. Your pup will thank you!

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