Dogs are known for their quirky and sometimes puzzling behavior, and one such behavior that has puzzled many dog owners is their tendency to lick their paws. While it may seem like a harmless and natural habit, excessive paw licking can be a sign of an underlying health issue that requires attention. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why dogs lick their paws and what you can do to help your furry friend.
Bathing
One of the primary reasons why dogs lick their paws is to keep themselves clean. Just like cats, dogs are natural groomers and they use their tongues to clean themselves. Paws are one of the dirtiest parts of a dog’s body as they come into contact with a lot of surfaces, and so licking them helps to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on them. While this is a natural behavior, excessive licking can lead to paw pad irritation and can even cause an infection.
Allergies
Another reason why dogs may lick their paws is due to allergies. Allergies can cause itchiness and irritation, particularly in the paws and ears, which can lead to excessive licking. Common allergens for dogs include pollen, dust mites, and certain foods. If you notice your dog licking their paws excessively, particularly during certain times of the year or after eating a particular type of food, it could be a sign of an allergy. In this case, it is important to consult with a veterinarian who can perform allergy testing and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Stress
In some cases, dogs may also lick their paws due to anxiety or stress. This is particularly common in dogs that have separation anxiety or are prone to anxiety in certain situations, such as during thunderstorms or fireworks. Licking can be a self-soothing behavior for dogs, so they may turn to licking their paws as a way to cope with their anxiety. If you suspect that your dog’s paw licking is related to anxiety, it is important to address the underlying cause of their anxiety and work with a professional trainer or behaviorist to help your dog feel more comfortable and confident.
When Is It A Problem?
If your dog is excessively licking their paws, it is important to monitor their behavior and look out for any signs of discomfort or injury. Excessive licking can cause the skin to become red and inflamed, and can even lead to open sores or infections. If you notice any signs of irritation or injury, it is important to consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible.
What Should You Do?
There are several things that you can do to help your dog if they are excessively licking their paws. First and foremost, it is important to maintain good paw hygiene by keeping your dog’s paws clean and dry. This can be done by wiping their paws with a damp cloth after they come in from outside and ensuring that their paws are thoroughly dried afterward. If your dog has a tendency to lick their paws excessively, you may also want to consider using a paw balm or moisturizer to help soothe and protect its paw pads.
If Your Dog Suffers From Allergies
If your dog’s paw licking is due to allergies, there are several treatment options available. Your veterinarian may recommend antihistamines or other medications to help alleviate the itching and inflammation. They may also recommend a change in diet or the use of hypoallergenic dog food. In some cases, allergy shots may also be recommended to help desensitize your dog to the allergen.
If Your Dog Suffers From Anxiety
If your dog’s paw licking is due to anxiety, it is important to address the underlying cause of their anxiety and work with a professional to help your dog feel more comfortable and confident. This may involve behavior modification techniques, such as desensitization and counterconditioning, as well as the use of medications or supplements to help reduce anxiety.