dog sometimes limping and licking paw

Question
Hello,

I have noticed that our 8 month old Shih Tzu has a slight limp to her left hind leg.  I have observed her to only sometimes limp, not always.  She has also been licking at or mouthing her left hind paw.  I have noticed that the fur surrounding the paw pads and nails has changed in color going from white to a red/brown color.

She is still very active - running, playing, running up the stairs, pulling on the leash during walks etc.

I have touched every inch of her paw and leg and she has not indicated any pain.  I tried looking through the fur of the paw and pads and have not noticed anything trapped in there.

Is this something that will pass or can I remedy this at home or does she need to be treated by a vet?

Do you have any ideas of what can be causing this?

Thank you,

J.

Answer
The reddish color is from her saliva getting all over the fur. It will stain the fur red after enough exposure.
You should get her paw shaved so you can really look at what is going on with it. She could have a sticker in there, a toenail that is hurt or even a skin problem. Even a bone or nerve pain will cause her to lick and mouth it.

Get her shaved and then assess it. The vet might have to look it over.