Why is My Dog Always Licking His Paws?

Updated: 4/29/24

Dog paw licking is a common behavior that many pet owners observe in their pet. While occasional paw licking is normal for dogs, excessive or persistent licking can be a cause for concern. There can be various reasons why your dog is licking their paws, ranging from medical issues to behavioral factors. 

Questions To Ask If Your Dog Is Always Licking Their Paws?

If your dog is always licking their paws, it is important for you to ask the following questions:

• When did it begin?  Is it a lifelong problem or a recent occurrence?
• Has anything changed in their environment, lifestyle or diet? 
• When does your pet lick and chew their paws the most? After a walk, being in the yard, seasonally?

These questions will help you pinpoint the cause of the behavior and the underlying problem so you can implement appropriate measures to address the problem effectively.

Common Causes Of Paw Licking In Dogs

Allergies-  Consider whether your dog may have allergies to food, environmental factors (such as pollen or grass), or household products (like cleaners or detergents). Often a pet may have both food and environmental allergies but the symptoms only become noticeable during certain times of the year. To mitigate contact allergies, consider using specialized dog socks to minimize exposure during outdoor activities or opt for paw-soaking in a bathtub or sink upon returning indoors. Addressing food allergies may necessitate a hypoallergenic diet, excluding ingredients like corn, soy, chicken, and peanut butter from your pet's food regimen. 

Bacterial And Fungal Paw Infections- These can arise from various factors, including moisture, cuts or scratches, foreign objects, allergies, compromised immune systems, environmental factors, and poor hygiene.  Excessive paw licking, which causes wetness and staining can also lead to yeast overgrowth and emit a distinct "yeasty-cheese-like" odor. This makes them more susceptibility to fungal and bacterial infections. Abnormal odor, pain, redness, swelling and limping are the most common signs of these infections.  They may need to be treated with antibiotics or be helped by using a few holistic supplements. Yeast infection in dogs can be treated by changing their diet and using a yeast-killing formula like K9 Yeast Defense with Power Probiotic. Regular paw inspections, proper grooming, and maintaining a clean environment are crucial preventive measures.

Injury or Arthritis- Dogs lick injured or painful paws instinctively as a form of self-soothing and wound care. Licking provides temporary relief by reducing pain and inflammation through the release of endorphins. Additionally, the moisture from saliva can help keep the wound clean and promote healing. However, excessive licking can impede healing and may introduce bacteria, potentially leading to infection. Therefore, while some licking is normal and beneficial, monitoring and managing the behavior to prevent over-licking is important for proper wound healing.

Boredom or Psychological Causes-Self-grooming is the natural way that dogs pass the time, it can also signal underlying issues such as anxiety, stress, or boredom. Dogs can develop lick granulomas from stress. Pay attention to whether this behavior occurs when your pet is left alone or during significant changes in the household. Making small lifestyle adjustments, such as increasing exercise, providing distraction toys, or minimizing time spent alone, can help alleviate these issues and curb the behavior.

Understanding the reasons behind a dog's paw-licking behavior is crucial for effective treatment and care. Whether it's due to allergies, injuries, behavioral issues, or medical conditions, addressing the underlying cause is essential for the well-being of your dog. By consulting with a veterinarian, implementing preventive measures, and providing appropriate treatment with medication and natural remedies, you can help alleviate discomfort, promote healing, and ensure your dog's paws stay healthy and happy. 

Author: Susan Davis, Pet Nutritionist

Original post: 1/8/14

Updated: 4/29/24