Why Does My Dog Keep Licking His Paws?
Let’s be honest, our canine companions love to lick doggone near everything, but if your pup seems overly persistent about licking his paws, it’s worth taking a closer look. Most of the time, paw licking is perfectly normal behavior. Dogs will lick their paws to keep their toes nice and tidy or to self-soothe. But if your dog just won’t stop licking—even when you try distractions like treats or toys—a medical cause could be to blame, and it’s time to call a veterinarian.
At Rocklin Ranch Veterinary Hospital, we know those precious paws were made for walking, so in this blog, we explore the reasons why paw licking has become your pet’s favorite pastime to help you pinpoint the problem and get your dog back on the road to better paw health.
Your Dog Has a Boo-Boo
Sometimes, excessive paw licking signals pain or injury. If your dog’s overly aggressive licking and chewing is accompanied by limping, a reluctance to go for walks, or a funky odor, one of these causes might be the culprit:
- Bee sting/insect bite
- Cracked or irritated paw pad
- Paw pad burns from walking on hot surfaces
- Broken bone
- Damaged or ingrown toenail
It’s Allergy Season
Allergies of any kind, at any time of year, can cause infections and irritation on the skin and paws and cause your dog to lick, chew, and bite at his itchy feet. Identifying the exact allergen is key so it can be avoided in the future. Dogs can have allergies to the following substances:
- Seasonal triggers like grass or pollen
- Environmental allergens like mold and mildew, household cleaners, or air fresheners
- Food allergies such as chicken, wheat, or eggs
- Flea bites
Boredom, Stress, or Anxiety
Sometimes, a dog’s paw-licking behavior is intended to self-soothe, but when it becomes an ongoing habit, it could be a sign of stress, anxiety, or boredom. Is your dog getting enough exercise and meaningful interaction with his human family? Are loud noises, new people, or new surroundings making your dog feel fearful or stressed? When medical reasons are ruled out, it may be time to consult an animal behaviorist, who can suggest helpful changes to your dog’s daily routine or surroundings.
Arthritis
Swollen, achy joints can happen in toes, too, particularly in older pets. Arthritis is a progressive condition that causes pain and inflammation. Try these helpful ways to ease the pain and discomfort of a dog with arthritis:
- Add ramps where needed to make navigating your home easier
- Provide your pet with an orthopedic bed
- Keep your dog at a healthy weight
- Use veterinarian-approved prescription medications or supplements like glucosamine
- Provide opportunities for low-impact exercise as recommended by your veterinarian
We’re Here to Help!
If your dog’s paw obsession has you concerned, contact us to schedule a checkup. We’re here to help you protect and care for your pet’s paws.