It can be concerning when you notice your dog excessively chewing and licking their paws, especially when your attempts to distract them with toys or a simple call of their name don’t deter the behavior. This persistent paw-focused activity can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from common nuisances like fleas and allergies to more serious issues like injuries or underlying pain. Understanding these potential reasons is the first step towards providing your canine companion with the relief they need.
Dr. Valentina Henao, a veterinarian and medical director at Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) in Miami, explains that while occasional paw licking is normal for dogs—serving as a method of exploration, self-soothing, or cleaning after a walk—excessive licking and chewing can signal a problem that requires attention. If the behavior is so intense that your dog is harming themselves, or if it persists despite distractions, it’s time to investigate further.
Common Causes of Excessive Paw Licking and Chewing
When paw licking becomes compulsive, it warrants a closer examination. Identifying the root cause is crucial for effective treatment.
1. Injuries or General Pain
Aggressive licking and chewing can be a direct indicator of pain or an injury to your dog’s paw. Look for other signs of discomfort such as limping, reluctance to use stairs, or a general decrease in activity. Specific causes of pain can include:
- Embedded objects: Small foreign objects like thorns or glass shards can become lodged in the paw.
- Cuts and abrasions: From rough terrain or sharp objects, these can cause significant discomfort.
- Insect stings or bites: A bee sting, for example, can cause localized pain, swelling, and intense itching. If you suspect a sting, check for an embedded stinger that needs removal to prevent further allergic reactions or illness.
- Broken nails or toe injuries: These can be extremely painful and lead to constant licking.
2. Allergies
Allergies are a frequent culprit behind skin issues in dogs, including those affecting the paws. Dr. Henao notes that allergies can manifest as skin infections, hot spots, and even ear infections. Identifying the specific allergen can be a complex process, as triggers can include:
- Environmental allergens: Pollen, dust mites, mold, and grasses.
- Food ingredients: Common proteins like chicken or beef, or other food components.
- Flea bites: Even a single bite can cause a significant reaction in allergic dogs.
Treating allergies often requires a multi-faceted approach. Your veterinarian may prescribe allergy medications, administer injections, or recommend 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 be essential for managing food allergies. For flea allergies, consistent flea and tick prevention is key. If infections develop due to allergies, topical and oral medications, along with a recovery cone to prevent further licking, will be necessary.
3. Fleas and Ticks
Parasites like fleas and ticks are common irritants that can lead to intense itching and subsequent paw chewing and licking. These pests can infest various environments frequented by dogs, including bedding, carpets, and outdoor spaces.
A thorough physical check using a flea comb is the most straightforward way to detect fleas. Signs include the presence of small, moving insects or their black droppings (flea dirt) on the dog’s skin. Ticks often hide between the toes, under the legs, or behind the ears. If you find a tick, it’s crucial to remove it carefully and completely using tweezers, grasping it at the base near the skin to avoid leaving mouthparts embedded, which can cause infection. Utilizing a vet-recommended flea and tick preventative medication is the most effective way to manage and prevent these infestations.
4. Arthritis
Arthritis, a degenerative joint disease, commonly affects older dogs and can impact not only the larger joints but also the toes. As cartilage breaks down, it leads to pain, inflammation, and difficulty moving the affected paws.
Management strategies for arthritis include:
- Exercise and physical therapy: Gentle, low-impact exercise can help maintain joint mobility and reduce pain.
- Pain management: Veterinarians may prescribe anti-inflammatory and pain medications to manage discomfort, depending on the severity of the condition.
5. Behavioral Issues
Behavioral and mental health problems can also manifest as compulsive paw licking, similar to anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorders in humans. Even after medical causes are ruled out, some dogs may continue this behavior due to:
- Separation anxiety: Distress when left alone.
- Boredom: Lack of sufficient mental and physical stimulation.
- Stress or anxiety: Changes in routine, environment, or the introduction of new pets or family members.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
While paw licking itself is rarely an emergency, you should consult your veterinarian promptly if your dog exhibits any of the following symptoms:
- Bleeding from the paws
- Visible swelling
- Limping
- Discharge (pus or other fluids) from the paws, indicating infection
- Vocalizing pain (whimpering, crying out) when paws are touched
Prompt veterinary attention is essential, as untreated paw licking can escalate into more severe issues like pododermatitis, a painful bacterial infection of the paw that can be difficult to treat. Early diagnosis and intervention often lead to simpler and more effective solutions. If you are struggling with your dog’s behavior, consulting with a dog and cat behavior specialist may be beneficial.
