Ulcers Deep in the Paw Pads

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

Yes, they look just like round ulcers.

For the third time since May, Spud has ulcers deep underneath his paw pad.  Perfectly round, scarlet red, and this last one bled. I thought he might have ripped his nail at first.    This happened long before it became too hot so, no, it is not hot blacktop.  He hasn't been on any hot pavement.  I also thought he might be getting stung in the grass?

They have occurred on different Paws so they are not the same ulcer not completely healed.

Any ideas what this might be?  

We have a soak method that helps so I am not looking for treatment but a cause.

I cant figure out what is causing this to occur. 

Allergies? Any illness that comes to anyone's mind? 

He gets either depressed, in pain, or sick with them. Just not himself, but nothing to go to the vet about because they will just tell us to do the soaks, etc.

Just curious if anyone has dealt with this issue

[Sue, Murphy and Bella ()*o*()]

This is a mystery for sure. I would venture a grass or weed related irritant as it is since May, new sprouts, and the only place he really is exposed to new growth. I'd say foxtails, but not sure there are any in your area. Im sure you are wiping off his paws after every trip outside, maybe even a foot bath upon coming in?
Antihistamines, and a topical. I swear by ANIMAX OINTMENT. Its a nystatin-neomycin ointment to help with inflammation and healing. I put that on asap if mine have any abrasions and it gives relief within 24 hours at least. good luck, I hope you solve the mystery soon.

[Olivia & Chanel]

Since you found multiple spots could it be a bacterial skin infection? I know other dogs who have gotten staph or strep infections. Perhaps some antibiotics would help? Good luck.

[Lori, Quincy & Frankie]

No input, but I do hope Spud is better and not bothered by this again. 

[Janie, Jackson and Jilly]

Just reading your post Joanne and I hope Spud is doing better.

[F, Calla & Luca]

Me too.

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

I should update this so UPDATE:

We spent 2 years growing new grass. This spring, we finally took the fence down and gave him access to that area. Hmmm  He loves that particular grass. It is soft and green and shady.  

Shelia also mentioned, " are there things in the lawn?"   Sure there are!  Too much. I found lots of little rocks and tiny sticks.

Another thought is that we put in slate walkway. Right now it is new and not sunk and settled. So an uneven path

Lots of good responses with valid reasons.

As always, thank you all

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

JD has "open feet" (structural defect) and all kinds of things collect in between his pads. Good sized rocks, even. I have to check between his pads every day, and even then I miss things. It doesn't sound like this is Spud's problem, but as long as we're on the subject, I thought it was worth mentioning. 

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

Yes, Those paws are like Pockets. All kinds of collections  

[Camilla and Darwin]

I hope Spud feels better.