Is your dog spending an excessive amount of time licking and chewing their paws, even when you try to redirect their attention? While occasional paw licking can be a normal grooming or self-soothing behavior, persistent and intense paw-licking can indicate an underlying issue that needs attention. Understanding the potential causes is the first step towards helping your furry companion find relief. This guide, drawing on insights from veterinary professionals, explores the most common reasons behind excessive paw licking and chewing in dogs.
Dogs naturally lick their paws to clean themselves after a walk, as a way to self-soothe, or simply to explore their environment. However, when this behavior escalates to the point where your dog is causing harm to themselves, or can’t be distracted from it, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong. It is crucial to collaborate with your veterinarian to accurately diagnose the cause of your dog’s excessive paw licking so that appropriate treatment can be initiated promptly.
Common Causes of Excessive Paw Licking and Chewing
Several factors can contribute to a dog’s persistent need to lick or chew their paws. These range from minor irritations to more serious medical conditions.
1. Injuries or General Pain
Aggressive licking or chewing of the paws can be a direct response to pain or injury. Your dog might be trying to soothe an area that is hurting them. Look for other signs of discomfort such as limping, reluctance to climb stairs, or a general decrease in activity. Injuries could stem from various sources:
- Embedded stingers: If your dog has been stung by an insect, a stinger might be lodged in their paw. These should be removed promptly to prevent allergic reactions and illness.
- Cuts and abrasions: Paw pads can easily get cut or scraped during outdoor activities.
- Other sources of pain: Any internal discomfort or injury to the paw, toes, or even further up the leg could manifest as paw licking.
If you suspect an injury, it’s essential to have your veterinarian examine your dog for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
2. Allergies
Allergies are a frequent culprit behind itchy skin, including the paws, leading to excessive licking. Dr. Valentina Henao, a veterinarian and medical director at Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) in Miami, explains that allergies can cause various skin issues, such as infections, hot spots, and ear infections, which may all be linked to the underlying allergic reaction. Allergens can be environmental or food-related:
- Environmental allergies: Pollen, dust mites, mold, and other environmental factors can trigger allergic reactions.
- Food allergies or intolerances: Certain ingredients in your dog’s food can cause adverse reactions.
Managing allergies often requires a multi-faceted approach. Veterinary treatments may include:
- Medications: Antihistamines, anti-inflammatory drugs, or specific allergy injections like Cytopoint can help manage symptoms.
- Topical treatments: Medicated shampoos and conditioners can soothe irritated skin and treat infections.
- Dietary changes: For suspected food allergies, a veterinarian might recommend a limited ingredient diet or a specialized veterinary diet featuring novel or hydrolyzed proteins. Products like Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care formulas are examples of limited ingredient diets that may be considered.
- Flea and tick prevention: If flea allergies are suspected, consistent and effective flea and tick medication is crucial.
To prevent your dog from worsening any skin conditions caused by allergies, a recovery cone might be necessary.
3. Fleas and Ticks
Parasites like fleas and ticks are common irritants that can cause intense itching, leading dogs to excessively lick and chew their paws. These pests can inhabit various environments, including your home, yard, and natural outdoor spaces.
Checking your dog for fleas and ticks is straightforward. You can use a flea comb to sift through their fur. Signs of fleas include the presence of small, actively moving insects and “flea dirt” (flea feces), which appears as small black specks. Ticks often attach themselves in less visible areas like between the toes, in the armpits, or behind the ears.
If you find a tick, it’s important to remove it carefully and completely. Grasp the tick as close to your dog’s skin as possible with fine-tipped tweezers or a specialized tick removal tool, and pull upward steadily. Leaving any part of the tick, especially the mouthparts, can lead to a skin infection.
Preventing flea and tick infestations is key. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations on effective, vet-approved flea and tick preventative medications for dogs.
4. Arthritis
Arthritis is a degenerative joint disease that commonly affects older dogs. While often associated with larger joints like the hips and knees, it can also impact the smaller joints in a dog’s paws and toes. As the cartilage that cushions the joints breaks down, it leads to pain, inflammation, and decreased mobility.
Several strategies can help manage arthritis and alleviate your dog’s discomfort:
- Exercise and Physical Therapy: Gentle, low-impact exercises and physical therapy can help maintain joint flexibility and reduce pain. Keeping the joints moving is beneficial.
- Pain Management: Your veterinarian may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers to manage discomfort, depending on the severity of the arthritis.
5. Behavioral Issues
Beyond physical ailments, behavioral or psychological factors can also contribute to excessive paw licking. Similar to humans experiencing stress or anxiety, dogs may resort to repetitive behaviors like licking as a coping mechanism. Potential behavioral causes include:
- Anxiety or stress: Changes in routine, new environments, or separation anxiety can trigger licking.
- Boredom: Lack of mental and physical stimulation can lead dogs to develop compulsive behaviors.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): In some cases, paw licking can become a compulsive disorder that requires professional intervention.
If medical causes have been ruled out, working with a veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist can help address these underlying behavioral problems.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
While occasional paw licking is normal, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian if your dog exhibits any of the following symptoms:
- Bleeding from the paws.
- Swollen paws.
- Visible limping.
- Discharge (pus or other fluids) from the paws, indicating infection.
- Vocalizations like whimpering, wincing, or crying out when their paws are touched.
Addressing the root cause of paw licking promptly is essential. If left untreated, the repetitive licking can lead to secondary bacterial infections, a condition known as pododermatitis. Pododermatitis can be painful and challenging to treat, making early intervention critical for a simpler and more effective resolution. By working closely with your veterinarian, you can help your dog overcome this bothersome habit and ensure their paw health.
