If you notice that your dog is licking compulsively, a visit to the vet would be the best decision, since this attitude can lead to frequent canine dermatitis problems. One of them has to do with the appearance of acral granulomas. This type of lesion is usually found in the area of the carpus and metacarpus of the extremities. Usually unilaterally, although it is possible in dogs with lesions on all four legs.
The way to identify an acral granuloma is that they have an oval shape and are hairless in the area, at least when they are recent. In cases where these lesions become chronic, hyperpigmentation and fibrosis may also be observed. The importance of treating these injuries as soon as possible is that they could be complicated by the risk of infection.
An acral granuloma can arise due to different reasons, although it can also be due to more than one cause at the same time. One of the most frequent causes of canine granulomas has to do with dermatological problems, related to cases of atopic dermatitis and pyodermas, but also due to food intolerances or allergic reactions. However, there are more explanations: ectoparasites, hypothyroidism, leishmania, or orthopedic factors.
Among the most frequent reasons for the appearance of a granuloma is the behavior of the animal, specifically, a chronic licking action. By obsessively and repetitively licking the limb, the result ends up being this lesion with the appearance of an ulcerated and alopecic red plaque. When the dog licks itself so much, hair loss occurs in the area and this facilitates skin irritation, where the ulcer will arise. As this progresses, and even becomes infected, that area of the paw will generate a strong itching sensation. This causes the dog to be unable to stop licking itself and it becomes a chronic condition that only gets worse.
The treatment that is provided to the dog will depend directly on the reason behind the appearance of the granuloma. However, the first step will be to deal with the lesions with the use of antibiotics and other appropriate drugs that are prescribed by the veterinarian, who must evaluate each case.
To prevent it from recurring, it is necessary to identify its origin, differentiate whether it is some type of disease or disorder, as could be the case with atopic dermatitis, or if it is rather a problem with the animal's behavior. During its healing, the Elizabethan collar is usually used, so that the dog does not have access to the wound.
