Paw licking is a normal thing for dogs. It’s almost like us washing our hands in a way. However, if the licking is a constant habit for your dog, this can be an indicator that something is wrong.
Reasons for frequent licking
An injury
If your dog is licking their foot constantly, and you notice them limping slightly, they may have a cut or something stuck in their paw. This can be anything from a splinter to glass, for example. You can look for a possible injury by looking at your dog’s pad and between their toes.
Allergies
If your dog is licking more than one paw, it could be because of some type of allergy. This can be due to something in their food, or even something in their environment, such as grass. If this is the case, dogs will lick their paws in order to relieve the itch and irritation they’re experiencing. Talk to your vet to see if this is the case, and how this can be treated.
Parasites
Another reason may be due to fleas or mange. You can look for fleas by closely examining your dog’s skin. Mange, on the other hand, is harder to detect. If your dog is itching constantly or losing hair, this could be a sign. It’s best to go to the vet in order to diagnose this, and get proper treatment.
Behavior
Paw licking may even be a behavioral issue. This can be a sign that your dog is anxious or bored. If your vet believes it’s a behavioral issue, try giving them a distraction, such as walking/playing with them more or a toy that will keep them busy. If this behavior persists, talk to your vet for potential solutions. They may suggest a topical cream that your dog won’t want to lick.
