Excessive Paw Licking? Why it happens and What you can do.

By rjoachim | June 9, 2023
  • Self-grooming: Dogs are naturally clean animals, and they use their saliva to clean their fur and paws. This is especially important after they go outside, as their paws can pick up dirt, debris, and bacteria.
  • Boredom or anxiety: If a dog is bored or anxious, they may lick their paws as a way to self-soothe. This is especially common in dogs that are left alone for long periods of time.
  • Pain or discomfort: If a dog is experiencing pain or discomfort in their paws, they may lick them as a way to relieve the pain. This is often the case with dogs that have arthritis or other paw injuries.
  • Allergies: Dogs can be allergic to a variety of things, including certain foods, pollen, and environmental factors. If a dog is allergic to something, they may lick their paws as a way to relieve the itchiness.
  • Infection: If a dog has an infection on their paw, they may lick it as a way to clean it and keep it moist. However, licking can also make the infection worse, so it is important to take your dog to the vet if you suspect an infection.

If your dog is licking their paws excessively, it is important to take them to the vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions. In some cases, licking can be a sign of a more serious problem, such as kidney disease or Cushing’s disease. However, in many cases, licking is simply a normal behavior that does not require any treatment.

Here are some tips to help reduce excessive paw licking:

  • Keep your dog’s paws clean and dry.
  • Trim your dog’s nails regularly.
  • Provide your dog with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals on your dog’s paws.
  • If you suspect your dog has an allergy, consult with your vet about treatment options.

If you are concerned about your dog’s paw licking, talk to your vet. They can help you determine the cause of the licking and recommend the best course of treatment.

If you enjoyed the article on exercise/Fitness. Check out this topic on excessive dog licking paws under stress/management and relief.

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