Rocco’s Story and What Pet Parents Should Know

Interdigital cysts are a common — and often very painful — condition affecting dogs, particularly short-haired, stocky breeds such as Bulldogs, Boxers and Bull Terriers. These lesions appear between the toes and can range from mild swelling to severely inflamed, ulcerated and pus-filled sores.

Recently, Rocco, a handsome Bulldog, came to see us at Bruma Lake Vet with painful lumps between his toes that were making walking uncomfortable. On examination, the lesions were ulcerated and filled with pus — classic signs of interdigital cysts.

Rocco’s case is just one of many presentations we see, and it highlights why early diagnosis and proper management are so important.

What Are Interdigital Cysts?

Despite their name, interdigital “cysts” are not true cysts. They are best described as deep inflammatory lesions that form in the skin between a dog’s toes.

They develop when hair follicles in the webbing between the toes become damaged, blocked or ruptured. This triggers inflammation deep within the skin and often leads to secondary bacterial infection, which causes swelling, pain and discharge.

Over time, these lesions can rupture, ulcerate and recur — making them frustrating for both dogs and their owners if not properly managed.

Why Do Interdigital Cysts Occur?

Interdigital cysts rarely have a single cause. In most cases, several contributing factors are involved.

Common Predisposing Factors

Breed & Paw Conformation
Dogs with broad, splayed feet or poor foot conformation place extra mechanical stress on the skin between their toes. Bulldogs are particularly prone because of the constant pressure and friction in this area.

Coat Type
Short, stiff, bristly hair can easily penetrate the skin between the toes, acting like a foreign body and triggering inflammation.

Allergies
Environmental or food allergies commonly affect the paws. Chronic licking, chewing and inflammation weaken the skin barrier and make infections more likely.

Obesity
Extra body weight increases pressure on the feet, worsening irritation and delaying healing.

Foreign Bodies
Grass seeds, thorns or debris can lodge between the toes and cause local trauma and infection.

Parasites & Infections
Mites, yeast or bacterial infections may contribute to ongoing inflammation.

Hormonal or Immune Conditions
Underlying endocrine disorders or immune-mediated disease can impair skin health and healing.

Clinical Signs to Watch For

Dogs with interdigital cysts may show:

• Swelling or firm lumps between the toes

• Redness, ulceration or open sores

• Pus or bloody discharge

• Limping or reluctance to walk

• Excessive licking or chewing at the paws

• Pain when paws are touched

Because these lesions are painful, dogs may become irritable or less active.

How Are Interdigital Cysts Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually based on:

• Clinical examination of the paws

• Assessment of breed, history and recurrence

• Identifying signs of infection or inflammation

In recurrent or severe cases, additional diagnostics may be recommended, such as:

• Skin cytology or cultures to identify bacteria or yeast

• Allergy investigations

• Biopsies (in rare or non-responsive cases)

• Blood tests to rule out underlying conditions

Treatment: How We Help Dogs Like Rocco

Treatment depends on severity, infection and whether the condition is acute or chronic.

Medical Management

In Rocco’s case, treatment included:

• Antibiotics to address secondary bacterial infection

• Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and swelling

• Topical cortisone cream to calm inflammation

• Antiseptic paw washes to keep the area clean and reduce bacterial load

This approach is effective for many dogs when started early.

Supportive Care

• Keeping paws clean and dry

• Preventing licking (using cones or boots if needed)

• Weight management where applicable

Long-Term Management & Prevention

Interdigital cysts can recur, especially in predisposed breeds. Long-term management may include:

• Regular medicated paw baths

• Ongoing allergy management if allergies are identified

• Weight control

• Routine paw inspections after walks

• Addressing underlying infections promptly

In chronic, severe or non-responsive cases, surgical intervention or referral to a veterinary dermatologist may be considered.

When Should You See a Vet?

If you notice any swelling, sores, discharge or limping related to your dog’s paws, it’s important to seek veterinary care early. Prompt treatment reduces pain, speeds healing and lowers the risk of recurrence.

Final Thoughts

Interdigital cysts are uncomfortable, frustrating and often recurrent — but with proper diagnosis, treatment and long-term management, most dogs can remain comfortable and active.

Rocco is already well on his way to recovery, and with continued care, we’re hopeful his paws will stay healthy going forward.

If your dog is licking their paws excessively, limping, or has sores between their toes, our team at Bruma Lake Vet is here to help.