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Why Is My Dog Licking & Chewing Its Paws?

Dogs use their paws for everything—from walking and running to digging and playing—so it’s natural for them to give their paws some attention. But when licking or chewing becomes excessive, it can leave pet owners feeling worried and searching for answers. Could it be a sign of discomfort, an underlying health issue, or just a quirky habit? This behavior, while common, often points to something more than just routine grooming. If your dog is persistently licking or chewing its paws, it may be time to seek answers. At Main Street Veterinary Center in Bartow, FL, our team is here to help. Call us at (863) 534-9584 to schedule an evaluation and give your dog the care they need.

 

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What Are Some Common Causes of Paw Licking and Chewing?

Paw licking and chewing can be triggered by a range of factors, from external irritants to internal conditions. Identifying the cause is essential to improving your dog’s comfort. Below are some common reasons why your dog may be excessively licking and chewing its paws.

Allergies

Dogs can suffer from environmental allergies caused by pollen, dust, or mold. They can also develop food allergies, which often result in itchy skin or inflamed paws. If your dog licks its paws more during certain seasons or after eating specific foods, allergies might be the cause. When dogs experience allergies, their immune system reacts to allergens, leading to irritation and itching. Paw licking becomes their way of soothing the discomfort. However, excessive licking can cause secondary issues like redness or even infections.

Injuries or Foreign Objects

A simple injury or a foreign object stuck in your dog’s paw can also lead to excessive licking and chewing. Dogs are naturally curious and often encounter sharp objects, rough terrain, or debris during walks or playtime. A thorn, pebble, or splinter lodged between the toes can irritate them, prompting constant licking. If you notice your dog limping or favoring one paw, inspect it for cuts, swelling, or foreign objects. Ignoring such injuries can worsen the problem and lead to infections.

Underlying Health Issues

Certain health conditions can also drive your dog to lick and chew its paws persistently. While these causes are less visible, they often require professional attention to address effectively.

Skin Conditions

Skin problems such as dermatitis or yeast infections are frequent reasons dogs lick their paws. Dermatitis can occur due to irritants like chemicals, lawn treatments, or salt used on icy sidewalks. Yeast infections, on the other hand, thrive in warm, moist areas like the paws. Symptoms include redness, a foul smell, or greasy skin, alongside the persistent licking.

Addressing skin issues early is important to prevent discomfort and further complications. Contacting your veterinarian can help determine the root cause and appropriate treatment.

Parasites

Parasites like fleas, mites, or ticks can cause intense itching, particularly around your dog’s paws. These pests irritate the skin, leading to obsessive licking and chewing. In some cases, mange—a skin condition caused by mites—can develop, resulting in significant irritation and hair loss. Regular parasite prevention is essential to protect your dog. If you suspect a parasite problem, contact your veterinarian for a thorough evaluation.

Anxiety or Behavioral Issues

Sometimes, paw licking and chewing are linked to emotional factors rather than physical conditions. Dogs may develop obsessive-compulsive behaviors due to stress, anxiety, or boredom. For instance, a dog left alone for long periods might lick its paws excessively to self-soothe. In such cases, addressing the underlying stressor is key. Enrichment activities, exercise, and quality bonding time can help reduce your dog’s anxiety and redirect their attention from their paws.

Environmental Triggers and Seasonal Factors

Environmental factors and seasonal changes can also play a role in your dog’s paw-licking behavior. Being aware of these triggers can help you manage your dog’s comfort effectively.

Weather Conditions

Extreme weather conditions, such as hot pavement in summer or icy sidewalks in winter, can irritate your dog’s paws. Heat can burn their sensitive paw pads, while cold and ice can cause cracking or dryness. These irritations often lead to licking as your dog attempts to alleviate the pain. Applying protective paw balms or using dog booties during walks can minimize exposure to harsh weather conditions. Regularly checking and cleaning your dog’s paws after outdoor activities is also a good preventive measure.

Contact with Irritants

Chemical irritants like lawn fertilizers, pesticides, or cleaning products can linger on surfaces your dog walks on. These substances can irritate the skin, prompting licking and chewing. If your dog frequently licks its paws after walks or time spent outside, it’s worth evaluating their exposure to such irritants. Washing your dog’s paws with a gentle, pet-safe cleanser after exposure to potentially harmful substances can reduce the likelihood of irritation.

When Is It Time to Call Your Veterinarian?

While occasional paw licking may not be a cause for concern, excessive or persistent licking warrants professional attention. Here are signs that it’s time to consult your veterinarian:

  • Swelling, redness, or bleeding around the paws
  • Foul odors or discharge from the paw area
  • Limping or reluctance to walk
  • Hair loss or bald patches on the paws
  • Behavioral changes such as restlessness or aggression

Your veterinarian can conduct a thorough examination to pinpoint the cause of your dog’s discomfort. If your dog is excessively licking and chewing its paws, call Main Street Veterinary Center in Bartow, FL, at (863) 534-9584 to schedule an evaluation.

Supporting Your Dog’s Comfort

Helping your dog overcome excessive paw licking involves both preventive measures and professional care. Regular grooming, paw checks, and maintaining a clean environment are excellent ways to support their overall paw health. If environmental factors like weather or irritants are to blame, protective gear and proper cleaning routines can go a long way in reducing discomfort. Remember, persistent licking often signals an underlying issue that needs attention. By staying proactive and seeking timely veterinary care, you can help your dog feel more comfortable and happy.

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Family is family, whether it has two legs or four. At Main Street Veterinary Center, we've spent the last 40 years healing and caring for your pets. As a family-operated practice, we know that family is about more than simply being related. Animals give us the ability to develop strong bonds and feel great compassion for a fellow living creature.