Dog Paw licking can drive you crazy.
All About Dog Paw Licking — the Seven Reasons Dogs lick their paws.
DOG PAW LICKING: Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws? The 7 Reasons
“Why does my dog keep licking her paws?”
“Slurp, slurp, slurp,” said our neighbour, nodding down at her Westie. “That’s all Sadie does. Licks her paws. Usually this walk in the park calms her down.” She pulled up on Sadie’s leash to lift the pup’s head.
“Yeah,” I agreed. “We’ve tried a number of anti-itch pet shampoos for our Bella. Cocker Spaniels seem to be really susceptible to body itch.”
“First we treated Sadie for fleas and mites. But we think it’s food allergies.”
“We are too. We know that one of Bella’s littermates was tested for allergies. Chicken seems to be a real culprit. They say chicken meat is a ‘warming protein’ — which is bad for dogs. Also all those antibiotics and hormones they feed chickens…”
“Our vet gave us special formula dog food. It’s not working for Sadie. How are you making out with Bella?”
“Bella has good days and itchy days. We seem to be finding the answers. The right shampoo and diet. We’re keeping a daily journal of everything we do. The answer’s in there somewhere.”
Bella and Sadie touched noses and for a while two tails whipped happily back and forth. We smiled.
Dog Paw Licking is a common behavior that can often be puzzling for pet owners. While some occasional licking is completely normal, frequent or obsessive licking can sometimes be a sign of an underlying issue. Here, from expert writer Jane Scaplen, is an excellent Guest Blog on this hot topic.
“Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws?” by Jane Scaplen
Why Dogs Lick Their Paws
In this article, we’ll explore the different reasons why dogs lick their paws. And provide insight into when this behavior is a cause for concern.
1. Dog Paw Licking: Natural Grooming Behavior
Dogs use their tongues as one of their primary grooming tools. Just like cats, they lick their paws to keep them clean. It’s normal for a dog to lick their paws after a walk or after eating. It helps remove dirt and debris that may have gotten stuck between their toes. If your dog is only licking occasionally and doesn’t seem to be in any discomfort, it is likely just part of their natural grooming routine.
2. Dog Paw Licking & Dry or Itchy Skin
Dry skin is a common cause of paw licking. If your dog’s paws are dry, cracked, or irritated, they may lick them to soothe the discomfort. Environmental factors like cold weather, hot pavement, or seasonal allergies can lead to dry or itchy paws.
If you notice that your dog licks their paws more often in certain weather conditions, it’s possible that their skin is reacting to environmental stressors.
3. Dog Paw Licking & Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. If your dog is licking their paws excessively, it may be due to allergies. Allergies can be caused by food, pollen, dust mites, or certain chemicals like those found in cleaning products or lawn treatments. Allergies often lead to itching and inflammation, which causes dogs to lick or chew at their paws in an attempt to relieve discomfort.
4. Injury or Foreign Object
Dogs may lick their paws if they have an injury such as a cut, scrape, or thorn stuck between their toes. Licking is a way for dogs to self-soothe and try to alleviate pain. You may notice your dog licking one paw more than others. Or seeming to be limping or favoring a paw. Inspect it for cuts, swelling, or foreign objects. If you find any injuries, it’s best to clean the paw and monitor the healing process.
5. Boredom or Anxiety
Dogs sometimes lick their paws as a way to relieve stress, boredom, or anxiety. Just as humans might bite their nails, dogs can lick their paws to cope with emotional discomfort. They may turn to paw licking as a way to self-soothe. Is your pup left alone for long periods? Experience changes in their routine? Or is not getting enough physical and mental stimulation? In more severe cases, this behavior can become compulsive.
6. Fungal or Bacterial Infections
Fungal and bacterial infections can also cause your dog to lick their paws. Infections often lead to swelling, redness, and an unpleasant odor. If the paw licking is persistent and accompanied by signs like discharge, swelling, or an odor, it’s important to seek veterinary attention. A veterinarian will be able to diagnose the infection and provide appropriate treatment.
7. Dog Paw Licking & Parasites
Fleas, ticks, or mites can cause irritation that leads dogs to lick their paws in an attempt to relieve the itching. Even if you regularly treat your dog for parasites, it’s possible for them to still develop an issue with pests. If your dog is licking their paws and showing signs of excessive scratching or biting, checking for parasites could be an important step.
Dog Paw Licking: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it normal for dogs to lick their paws?
Yes, occasional paw licking is completely normal. Dogs lick their paws for grooming and cleanliness. However, excessive or compulsive licking could indicate an underlying issue.
When should I be concerned about my dog’s paw licking?
If dog paw licking is frequent, persistent, or accompanied by other signs (like swelling, redness, discharge, or limping), it may indicate an injury, infection, or allergy. Consult your vet if you’re concerned.
How can I stop my dog from licking their paws?
First, identify the cause of the licking. If it’s due to boredom, increase your dog’s exercise and mental stimulation. If it’s related to an allergy, try to identify and eliminate the allergen. In cases of injury or infection, contact your vet for advice and treatment.
Can food allergies cause paw licking in dogs?
Yes, food allergies can cause itching and discomfort, leading to paw licking. Common allergens in dog food include beef, chicken, dairy, and grains. If you suspect a food allergy, consider switching to a hypoallergenic diet or consulting your vet for an elimination diet.
How can I treat dry paws in dogs?
Dry paws can be treated with moisturizing balms specifically designed for dogs. You can also protect their paws by limiting exposure to harsh weather. And using paw booties during walks in extreme temperatures. If the dryness persists, consult your vet for recommendations.
Can anxiety cause paw licking in dogs?
Yes, anxiety is a common cause of paw licking. Dogs may lick their paws as a way to cope with stress or nervousness. If you suspect anxiety, try to identify any triggers (like separation anxiety or loud noises). Work on reducing stress through training, calming products, or medication prescribed by your vet.
Conclusion
Paw licking is a behavior that can have many different causes. While it’s often just a natural grooming instinct, excessive licking may indicate a problem. Could be an injury, allergy, or emotional distress.
Observing your dog’s behavior and looking for other signs will help you determine whether their paw licking is normal or requires attention. If you’re unsure or if the behavior persists, a visit to the vet is always a good idea.
– Thanks, Jane, for this well-informed Dog Paw Licking article.
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MORE INFORMATION:
- “They say chicken meat is a ‘warming protein’ — which is bad.” For more info, see Dogs Naturally Magazine: “Allergic dogs should eat cooling proteins such as fish, duck, and rabbit. Cooling foods for dogs with allergies help to bring down the…” Help Allergies With Cooling Proteins For Dogs
- For additional qualified information, see the American Kennel Club: “There can be several causes, including injuries, skin problems, allergies to canine environments, parasites, or food, and boredom or anxiety…” Why Does My Dog Lick Their Paws?
- “When Queen Victoria called her new puppy Sharp, Sharp became one of the most popular canine names in the British Empire…” MOST POPULAR DOG NAMES THIS YEAR: Male & Female Dog Names
Jane Scaplen is a writer of memorable articles. Among her posts are “Dumbest Animals in the World.” “Why Do Chickens Lay Unfertilized Eggs?” And “Why Are Huskies So Dramatic?” Source: Free Guest Posting Articles.
Article “tagged” as: Why do dogs lick? Why do dogs lick their feet? Why do dogs lick their paws? Food allergies, skin allergies, yeast infections, fungal infection, bacterial infections, natural grooming, dogs lick, grooming, paw licking.
