If you’ve noticed your dog obsessively chewing and licking their paws, it can be concerning. While a bit of paw licking is normal for dogs as a self-soothing or cleaning behavior, excessive licking can signal an underlying issue. Dr. Valentina Henao, a veterinarian and medical director at Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) in Miami, explains that numerous factors, from minor irritations to more serious conditions, can cause this behavior. Understanding these potential causes is the first step toward helping your canine companion find relief.
Dogs often lick their paws after a walk to clean off dirt or as a way to comfort themselves. However, when this behavior becomes compulsive—persisting even when you try to redirect their attention with toys or treats—it warrants a closer look. Persistent paw licking and chewing can lead to self-inflicted harm, making prompt veterinary attention crucial.
It’s important to work with your veterinarian to figure out why your dog is licking their paws so the cause can be addressed quickly.
Several common reasons can lead to excessive paw licking and chewing in dogs.
5 Reasons Your Dog Is Licking Their Paws
1. Injuries or General Pain
Sudden or excessive paw licking can be a clear indicator of pain or an injury. Your dog might also exhibit other signs of discomfort, such as limping, reluctance to use stairs, or a general decrease in activity. Potential causes of paw pain include:
- Cuts and scrapes: From rough terrain or sharp objects encountered during walks.
- Embedded objects: Such as thorns, glass shards, or splinters.
- Insect stings or bites: If your dog has been stung by a bee or wasp, you might find an embedded stinger. “We must remove stingers that can cause allergic reactions and make your pets sick,” says Dr. Henao. Prompt removal is essential to prevent further irritation or allergic responses.
- Broken claws: A painful injury that can lead to significant discomfort.
If you suspect an injury, carefully examine your dog’s paws. If you find a cut, foreign object, or notice swelling or signs of pain, it’s best to consult your vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
2. Allergies
Allergies are a very common cause of itchy skin and paws in dogs, according to Dr. Henao. Allergic reactions can manifest in various ways, including skin infections, the development of hot spots, and ear infections. Identifying the specific allergen can be complex, as they can stem from:
- Environmental factors: Pollen, mold, dust mites, and grasses.
- Flea bites: Even a single flea bite can trigger a severe reaction in sensitive dogs.
- Food ingredients: Common allergens include proteins like chicken, beef, dairy, and grains.
Addressing allergies often requires a multi-faceted approach. Dr. Henao explains that veterinary treatment may include allergy medications, injections (like Cytopoint), topical treatments, and medicated shampoos to soothe the skin.
Dietary changes are also frequently recommended. For suspected food intolerances, a limited ingredient diet, such as Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care Adult Salmon & Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food or Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Grain-Free Formula Dry Dog Food, might be prescribed. If a true food allergy is diagnosed, a veterinary diet utilizing novel or hydrolyzed proteins could be beneficial. For flea allergies, consistent use of vet-recommended flea and tick preventatives is crucial. If infections develop secondary to allergies, your vet may prescribe oral or topical medications and recommend a recovery cone to prevent further licking and irritation.
3. Fleas and Ticks
Parasites like fleas and ticks are notorious for causing intense itching and discomfort in dogs, leading to excessive licking and biting. These pests can thrive in various environments, including your dog’s bedding, carpets, toys, as well as outdoor spaces like tall grass and wooded areas.
Regularly checking your dog for fleas and ticks is essential. A fine-toothed flea comb can help detect the presence of fleas, characterized by small, fast-moving insects and their dark fecal matter, known as flea dirt. Ticks often hide in less visible areas, such as between the toes, under the legs, and behind the ears. If you find a tick, it’s crucial to remove it carefully and completely. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady pressure. Ensuring the entire tick, including its mouthparts, is removed is vital to prevent potential skin infections. Specialized tick removal tools can also be effective.
Prevention and treatment are straightforward with consistent use of vet-recommended flea and tick preventative medication for dogs. Your veterinarian can guide you on the most suitable options, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter products.
4. Arthritis
Arthritis, a degenerative joint disease, is a common condition in older dogs, and it can affect various joints, including those in the toes. This condition involves the breakdown of joint cartilage, resulting in pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility in the affected paws or limbs.
While arthritis cannot be cured, its symptoms can be managed to improve your dog’s comfort and quality of life. Strategies include:
- Exercise and physical therapy: Gentle, low-impact exercise and physical therapy can help maintain joint flexibility and reduce discomfort.
- Pain management and anti-inflammatory medications: Your veterinarian may prescribe medications to alleviate pain and inflammation, depending on the severity of the arthritis.
5. Behavior Issues
Dr. Henao notes that, similar to humans, pets can experience behavioral and mental health challenges that may require professional intervention from a veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist. Even after medical causes like infections or allergies have been ruled out or treated, a dog might continue to lick or chew their paws due to:
- Anxiety or stress: Changes in routine, separation anxiety, or new environments can trigger compulsive behaviors.
- Boredom: Insufficient mental or physical stimulation can lead dogs to develop self-soothing habits like paw licking.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): In some cases, paw licking can become a compulsive behavior that requires specialized behavioral modification and, potentially, medication.
Working With Your Veterinarian To Treat the Issue
While excessive paw licking is not typically an emergency, you should seek veterinary care promptly if your dog exhibits any of the following signs:
- Bleeding from the paws
- Swollen paws
- Limping
- Visible pus or discharge, indicating infection
- Vocalizing pain (whimpering, wincing, or crying out) when paws are touched
It is crucial to collaborate with your veterinarian to accurately diagnose the reason behind your dog’s paw licking. Dr. Henao cautions that delaying treatment can exacerbate the problem. “Paw licking can lead to bacterial infections of the paws called pododermatitis,” she states. “This condition can be painful and lead to infections that can be hard to treat.” Early detection and intervention often lead to simpler and more effective solutions.
WRITTEN BY
Janelle Leeson
Freelance Writer
