13 Reasons Your Dog’s Licking Its Paws and When to Visit the Vet

Lots of dogs lick their paws. And, there are a bunch of different reasons why your dog might be.

The trouble is diagnosing the problem and finding a solution. 

Why dogs lick their paws:

If your dog is obsessively licking their paws, you should find the cause and determine the next course of action. Their newfound interest may be caused by underlying health problems or injury.

Diagnosing the issue is the first step to better health for your dog, so you should contact us for an accurate diagnosis and advice or treatment. 

In the meantime, here are 13 of the most common reasons dogs lick or chew their paws and what pet owners should watch for.

13 of the most common reasons dogs lick their paws

The most common reason that dogs lick their paws includes skin issues, infections, injury, or unwanted guests like tics.

The most common reasons dogs lick or chew their paws include:

1. Dandruff or flakes

2. Hot Spots

3. Infections

4. Yeast

5. Paw injuries (including nails)

6. Overgrown nails

7. Ticks, mites, or bites from other insects

8. Burns

9. Boredom

10. Anxiety

11. Cysts

12. Blisters

13. Objects stuck in paw (like weeds, thorns, or small rocks)

Allergies can cause dogs to lick or chew paws

Environmental and food allergies can cause dogs to feel agitated and resort to licking or chewing their paws.

• Environmental allergies commonly start between 2-4 years of age for dogs and may arise on seasonal changes.

• Food allergies usually develop while dogs are still puppies or under a year of age

If you suspect that your pet has developed allergies, contact us for an accurate diagnosis. 

Pain could be causing your dog to lick its paws

Pain caused by arthritic joints, sprains, or fractures, could cause a dog to lick its paws in an attempt to relieve pain. The affected area might be red or swollen, and your pet may be reluctant to let you examine the area.

If you suspect that your pet is in pain, you should contact us as soon as possible. For after-hours diagnosis or treatment, contact your closest emergency vet. 

What to do if your dog is constantly licking its paws

Dogs can self-groom and occasional licking of paws or other body parts isn’t always cause for concern. 

However, if your pet shows a new interest, or is often and obsessively licking its paws, you should contact us for accurate diagnosis, advice, and potential treatment.

Prevention of excessive licking and biting at paws could prevent more serious issues from occurring.

Should you take your pet to the vet if it’s licking or biting its paws?

If your pet is licking or biting its paws obsessively, you should book an appointment with your vet to diagnose the issue. 

Not only can licking and biting paws make symptoms and conditions worsen quickly, but it can also lead to obsessive-compulsive behaviours.