Hello,

This sounds like Pododermatitis. It is a skin condition that affects dos as well as other animals. The causes can be bacteria such as Staphylococcus infection, fungal infection, parasites , demodex mites, Allergies or thyroid problems.

The descriptions of problems range from the feet are red and inflamed, ulcers, and sores may contain blood or pus. pain and itching, your dog animal will constantly lick its paws, with resulting hair loss. the areas aroound the nails may be especially red and sensitive. pus or blood blisters are sometimes seen. and your dog animal may have difficulty walking, especially if the footpads are involved .

The treatments vary for this problem and it depends on the cause. If it is because of allergies, a skin test can be used to determine what the dog is allergic to and that can be changed. If it is beacuse of a bacterial infection , oral antibiotics and topical can be used. If it is fungal there are topical as well as anti fungal drugs that can be given orally. It all depends on what your Vet. finds is the problem. If you feel insecure about the diagnosis you can see a Veterinary Dematologist. They can sometines help you since this is their specialty. Joan Jav917

http://www.lowchensaustralia.com/health/skin.htm