PupkeeperFirst aid
Cut or burned paw pads: dog first aid
Use this when your dog has a cut, torn or burned paw pad from glass, sharp objects, hot pavement or hot metal.
Call your vet for advice now
Find an emergency vetWhat to do
- Press a clean towel on the cut to stop the bleeding.
- If bleeding doesn't stop within 10 to 15 minutes, go to an emergency vet.
- Gently remove debris only if you can easily grab it with tweezers. Leave anything deep for the vet.
- For a burned pad, cool it under cool running water for at least 20 minutes if your dog lets you.
- Cover the pad with a non-stick pad and wrap the foot from the toes to above the ankle or wrist, loose enough to slide two fingers under.
- Call your vet, especially for burns, deep cuts, or a cut that is still open after three days.
Don't
- Don't dig deep for objects in the pad.
- Don't put ice, creams or ointments on a burned pad unless your vet says so.
- Don't let your dog walk on the hurt paw more than it has to.
Signs
- Bleeding from a pad
- Glass, a thorn or debris stuck in the pad
- Blistering after walking on a hot surface
- Swollen toes, a bad smell or discharge (infection)
Why
Walking on an injured pad keeps reopening it, which slows healing. Burns from hot pavement can keep getting worse and blister after the injury.
Sources
- VCA Animal Hospitals: First Aid for Torn or Injured Foot Pads in Dogs
- Blue Cross: Emergencies and First Aid in Dogs
- RECOVER Guidelines: First Aid for Dogs and Cats, Clinical Guidelines (J Vet Emerg Crit Care, 2026)
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.