Up to 40% of dogs experience some form of separation anxiety, which can often lead to behaviors like excessive licking and loud barking. If your furry friend has a habit of licking their paws, it can signify that something is amiss.
Key Takeaways
- Self-grooming habits
- Skin irritation
- Food allergies
- Aches or pains
- Separation anxiety
- Parasites
From injuries to food allergies, there are a few reasons why your canine companion treats their paws like a spoonful of peanut butter. Keep reading, and we’ll tell you more!
See Related: When Is It Too Cold To Walk Your Dog?
Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws?
Your precious pooch probably has some quirky habits and funny mannerisms that contribute to their loving and adorable personality. However, some of their behaviors may leave you scratching your head.
If you’ve caught your canine companion licking their paws like a lollipop, you may be wondering… well, why? After all, we humans would never dream about sticking our toes in our mouths!
Here are some of the most common reasons for this strange behavior.
#1. Self-Grooming Habits
When we humans feel dirty or grimy, we simply hop in a steamy shower and lather our bodies with soap. But your dog has other plans! In nature, dogs typically lick themselves to clean off dirt or debris. This is a normal habit that is the result of centuries in the wilderness.
Make sure to give your furry friend regular baths to keep them clean – just avoid overdoing it, as excessive bathing can dry their skin and lead to dryness and irritation.
#2. Skin Irritation
Skin health can be a major reason why your precious pooch is licking their paws. Skin irritation or skin dryness can cause them to lick their paws to relieve the uncomfortable sensations. Skin irritation is often the result of environmental allergies from things like grass, weeds, or dust. Your dog may also have swollen eyes, a runny nose, and congestion if they’re suffering from environmental allergies.
#3. Food Allergies
Dogs may experience food allergies that cause itchy paws. Your canine companion may choose to satiate that itch by excessively licking their paws. Certain foods or ingredients like dairy, wheat, soy, beef, or chicken can trigger an allergic reaction and cause itchy paws.
If you suspect a food allergy is the reason for the constant paw licking, consult with your veterinarian.
#4. Aches or Pains
If your dog has any wounds or injuries, they may lick the affected area for some relief. Licking can be soothing and calming, and can also help relieve pains or aches. If your precious pooch is licking their paws, they may be trying to cope with a sting, cut, bite, ingrown nail, burn, or puncture.
Take a close look at their paws and see if you can identify any wounds or injuries. There may be an injury or condition that is not visible on the outside, like arthritis, which may also be the reason for the excessive paw licking.
Arthritis is a health problem that usually affects older dogs and can severely impact their quality of life. As the joint cartilage breaks down, it can lead to pain, inflammation, and aches. Be sure to make your home more friendly for older dogs by placing rugs on slick floors, blocking stair access, and using an orthopedic bed.
If you suspect a wound or injury is the reason for the excessive paw licking, consult with your veterinarian.
#5. Separation Anxiety
Though physical conditions are often the reason for paw licking, mental conditions can also contribute to this habit. Separation anxiety is a common cause of paw licking, which dogs may do to stay calm and relaxed when they feel stressed or anxious. They may turn to other behaviors, like barking, digging, chewing, or scratching.
To satisfy their need to lick, give your furry friend some toys or treats that will keep them occupied when you’re away from home.
Bonus: The 10 Most Friendly Dog Breeds Of 2024
#6. Parasites
Because dogs are so close to the ground, their paws may come into contact with critters like fleas, ticks, and lice, which can cause skin irritation. Parasites can be a common cause of itchy paws and excessive licking. If that’s the case, be sure to consult with your veterinarian.
If you regularly take walks in grassy or wooded areas, it may be a good idea to change up your outdoor routine. Take walks in a paved area instead to minimize the contact your furry friend has with mites, fleas, and ticks. (Also, avoid any piles of poop that you may encounter to avoid infections.)
Final Thoughts
If your dog seems to enjoy licking their paws way too much, it might be time to analyze their behavior and habits more closely. Though paw licking is usually nothing to be concerned with, it can sometimes signal an underlying health concern.
If you’re worried about your furry friend, take them to the veterinarian. Your vet may prescribe topical treatments, share behavior modification techniques, or recommend a special diet that will help your dog find relief.
Keep Reading: 15 Amazing Facts About Dogs You Probably Didn’t Know
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