What to Do About Yeast Infections in Paws

Corn chips might be a classic game-day snack, but a strong whiff of that uncanny smell from your dog’s feet means trouble. 

Pseudomonas and Proteus bacteria, both of which naturally occur on dogs’ feet, produce an odor oddly reminiscent of Fritos. While a faint smell is no cause for concern, when it becomes overwhelming, it’s a sign of yeast overgrowth in your dog’s paw pads. 

Here’s what pet parents need to know to keep yeast in check and their dogs’ feet healthy. 

What Are Yeast Infections and How Do They Start?

Like many varieties of bacteria, yeast is a normal part of a dog’s skin microbiome. Under normal circumstances, their immune system does an effective job of keeping yeast at a healthy level. 

Yeast infections occur when the body isn’t able to keep yeast reproduction in check. Sometimes this happens because an underlying health condition is interfering with your dog’s ability to suppress yeast. It can also happen when yeast reproduces too quickly due to very favorable environmental conditions. 

Here are a few common scenarios:

• Moisture from swimming, sweating, or running through wet grass becomes trapped between skin folds that don’t get properly cleaned.
• Food or environmental allergies overwhelm your dog’s immune system, leaving them vulnerable to yeast overgrowth.   
• A compromised immune system from acute or chronic illness can’t suppress yeast.
• Inflammatory dermatological conditions like seborrhea create an environment where yeast can more easily thrive.

In any case, out-of-control yeast causes itchy, irritated skin that can lead to secondary infections if left untreated. 

What Causes Yeast Overgrowth in Paws?

Dog’s feet are at a disadvantage when it comes to yeast control. The structure of their toes and paw pads make pets’ feet a perfectly warm, dark, moist environment for yeast and bacteria to thrive. 

Not only do paws constantly pick up moisture and bacteria from the ground, but dogs also sweat through their feet. When the spaces between toes take too long to become clean and dry, the glucose in that sweat can feed yeast colonies and encourage them to multiply.

Symptoms

Aside from an overwhelming corn chip odor, yeast infections are apparent by the way they damage the skin. Keep an eye out for:

• Redness and swelling of the toes and paw pads
• Licking or chewing paws
• Discharge or greasy skin
• Discolored skin or nails

Treating Yeasty Paws

Luckily, most yeast infections respond quickly to antifungal medications. Your vet may prescribe a pill, ointment, or medicated bath to put yeast back in its place. If yeast overgrowth is an ongoing struggle for your pet, your vet can offer support that addresses the underlying cause. 

Yeast infections aren’t likely to resolve on their own, so don’t delay in seeking treatment. Dogs who are left to scratch and chew their irritated skin will create open sores that easily become infected. 

How to Prevent Yeast Infections in Dogs’ Feet

Managing your dog’s overall health and hygiene is the best way to keep yeast at bay. Take a moment to clean paws after walks, especially on wet or humid days. Always leave the spaces between the toes dry and inspect them for signs of irritation. 

Be aware of any environmental or food allergies your pet may have and take care to limit their exposure to things that burden their immune system.

Finally, don’t ignore excessive licking and chewing. Yeast overgrowth is easier to treat when it’s caught early, so don’t leave your pet vulnerable to open skin and secondary infections.