What Are the Treatments for Foot Fungus & Yeast in Canine Paws?

Yeast infections and foot fungus can occur in dogs as well as humans, and are generally the result of a diet that is high in yeast. The body turns carbohydrates into sugar, therefore your dog should avoid a high-carbohydrate diet while being treated for yeast infection. Feed her a diet rich in low-glycemic vegetables instead of things like potatoes, corn, rice and wheat, all of which are carbohydrates. Use homemade rinses and ointments prescribed by veterinarians to treat yeast infections on dog paws. A dog's moist paws create an ideal environment for yeast to thrive.

  1. Commercial Treatments

    • Commercial treatments for foot fungus in dog paws include anti-fungal shampoos, and creams and ointments that contain steroids such as Ketoconazole and Itraconazole. Wash the dog's skin and paws with the shampoo first. After shampooing, apply anti-fungal ointments to affected paws and wrap them with bandages. If you cannot keep bandages on your dog, the animal should remain indoors for three or four days until the paws heal.

    Sulfur Treatment

    • Sulfur-based soaps and shampoos are effective in curing yeast infections in dog paws. Bath the paws in the soap or shampoo at least two times per week until the fungus has cleared up.

    Apple Cider Vinegar and White Vinegar

    • Raw, unprocessed apple cider vinegar works as an effective rinse in the treatment of any yeast infection, including those in dog paws. Use about 1 cup of apple cider vinegar in 1 gallon of water to make the rinse. If your dog's paw pads are split up or otherwise contain open wounds from excessive biting, refrain from using the rinse, as it will burn and cause irritation to the paws. Another option is to use 1 to 4 cups of white vinegar and 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide in a gallon of water to treat yeast overgrowth in paws. Both treatments should be administered once or twice daily until the infection clears up.

    Additional Treatment Options & Tips

    • You can also use lemon to make an effective anti-fungal rinse. Use the same measurements for lemon as for apple cider vinegar. Another option is to use 20 drops of peppermint essential oil in a gallon of water to treat yeasty paws, or use a tea tree oil shampoo to bathe your pooch.
      If using lemon as a yeast treatment, note that it might bleach dark dog hair.
      Avoid getting any rinse in your dog's eyes.
      Use a cone collar to prevent your dog from constantly licking and biting her paws. Keep your dog away from moist areas while she is being treated for fungus.