If you’ve noticed your dog obsessively licking or chewing their paws, it can be concerning, especially when typical distractions fail to redirect their attention. This behavior can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from common irritants to more serious underlying issues. Dr. Valentina Henao, a veterinarian and medical director at Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) in Miami, explains that paw licking can be a symptom of anything from fleas and allergies to direct paw injuries.
While dogs may occasionally lick their paws for self-soothing, cleaning after a walk, or general exploration, excessive licking and chewing that causes harm warrants a closer investigation. It’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian to accurately diagnose and promptly treat the root cause of this behavior.
Common Causes of Excessive Paw Licking and Chewing
Understanding the potential reasons behind your dog’s paw-focused behavior is the first step toward finding a solution.
1. Injuries or General Pain
Persistent licking or chewing can signal that your dog is experiencing pain or has sustained an injury. Look for other signs of discomfort such as limping, reluctance to use stairs, or a general decrease in activity. Potential causes of paw pain include:
- Insect stings: If you suspect a sting, check for an embedded stinger, which should be removed to prevent allergic reactions and illness.
- Cuts or abrasions: Even minor wounds can cause significant discomfort and lead to excessive licking.
- Bruises or sprains: Trauma to the paw can result in pain and inflammation.
If you suspect an injury, it’s essential to have your veterinarian diagnose and treat the specific issue.
2. Allergies
Allergies are a frequent culprit behind skin irritations, including those affecting a dog’s paws. These reactions can manifest as infections, hot spots, or even ear infections. Identifying the specific allergen can be a complex process, as triggers can include:
- Environmental factors: Pollen, dust mites, mold, and certain grasses.
- Food sensitivities: Proteins like chicken or beef, or other ingredients in their diet.
- Contact irritants: Household cleaners, lawn chemicals, or certain fabrics.
Veterinarians often employ a multi-faceted approach to manage allergies, which may include allergy medications, injections, topical treatments, and medicated shampoos. Dietary changes, such as switching to a limited ingredient diet or a veterinary-prescribed diet with novel or hydrolyzed proteins, can also be beneficial for dogs with food intolerances or allergies. For flea allergies, appropriate flea and tick prevention is key. If infections develop due to allergies, medication and sometimes a recovery cone may be necessary to prevent further licking and irritation.
3. Fleas and Ticks
Fleas and ticks are common external parasites that can cause intense itching and irritation, leading dogs to lick and bite their paws excessively. These pests can inhabit various environments, including your dog’s bedding, carpets, toys, and outdoor areas like soil and tall grass.
You can check your dog for fleas or ticks by carefully examining their coat, paying close attention to areas like between the toes, under the legs, and behind the ears. Signs of fleas include the presence of small, moving insects or dark specks (flea dirt) in their fur. If you find a tick, it’s important to remove it carefully and completely using tweezers or a tick removal tool to avoid leaving mouthparts embedded in the skin, which can cause infection. Regular use of a veterinarian-recommended flea and tick preventative medication is the most effective way to prevent and manage infestations.
4. Arthritis
Arthritis, a degenerative joint disease, commonly affects older dogs and can impact any joint, including those in the toes. This condition leads to the breakdown of cartilage, causing pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the affected paws or limbs. While arthritis can cause discomfort, several strategies can help manage the pain and improve your dog’s mobility:
- Low-impact exercise and physical therapy: Keeping the joints moving through gentle activities can help alleviate pain.
- Pain and anti-inflammatory medications: Your veterinarian may prescribe medications to manage discomfort, depending on the severity of the arthritis.
5. Behavioral Issues
Just as humans can experience mental health challenges, dogs can also develop behavioral problems. In some cases, after medical conditions have been ruled out or treated, paw licking and chewing may persist due to:
- Anxiety or stress: Changes in routine, separation from owners, or stressful environments can trigger compulsive behaviors.
- Boredom: Insufficient mental and physical stimulation can lead dogs to develop self-soothing behaviors like excessive licking.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): In some instances, paw licking can become a compulsive disorder requiring specialized behavioral treatment.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
While occasional paw licking is normal, it’s important to consult your veterinarian promptly if your dog exhibits any of the following signs:
- Bleeding from the paws
- Swollen paws
- Limping
- Discharge (pus) indicating infection
- Vocalizing pain (whimpering, wincing, crying out) when touched
Addressing the underlying cause of paw licking quickly is crucial. If left untreated, the licking can lead to bacterial infections of the paws, a painful condition known as pododermatitis, which can become difficult to manage. Early detection and intervention often lead to simpler and more effective treatment outcomes.
