Find out why dogs lick their paws and what you should do

However, if repeated frequently, it can be a problem.

Therefore, if your dog is constantly licking its paws, it is necessary to consult your trusted veterinarian.

Let’s understand some reasons why dogs lick their paws.

Why does a dog lick its paw?

The causes that lead a dog to lick its paws can be different, so let’s get to know the main ones, which you can analyze to see if it makes sense in your case.

Pain

If your dog only licks one paw, this is usually a symptom of pain or irritation, as the problem is located in a specific part of the body.

The pain could have been caused, for example, by one or more wounds, a thorn, an insect bite or even a piece of glass.

If you don’t see anything when you look closely, take your pet to the vet to have the matter investigated.

Pain can also be caused by a muscle irritation, fracture or sprain.

Also, it can be caused by the swelling of one or more paws. If this is the case, it is good to investigate why the dog has a swollen paw.

Allergy

If, on the other hand, your dog is constantly licking his paws, the reasons can be varied.

These could be allergies to certain foods, chemicals in your backyard, weeds, cleaning products (such as bleach) in the house, and any number of other situations.

Finding out the real reason for the allergy can be very difficult. Therefore, our advice is to go to the veterinarian for blood tests so that we can discover the true cause and thus avoid use or isolate the problem.

Chemicals

If your dog is obsessively licking his paws after you walk him, you might want to try washing his paws, as it’s possible he’s allergic to pesticides found in the grass.

If, on the other hand, you suspect that the allergy is caused by food, make sure that you give your dog food that is rich in vitamins and that it is of good quality.

Gastrointestinal Problems

If you notice that your dog is always licking his paws, it could be gastrointestinal problems.

Studies show that around 70% of dogs suffer from gastrointestinal diseases.

he is bored

Without exercise, your dog can get bored, this causes him to lick his paws.

To avoid this, we advise you not to leave your dog alone at home for a long time, but if it is not possible due to some unforeseen event, try to buy toys so that he can occupy his head while you are away.

Our advice is to walk the dog for at least 30 minutes a day, allowing him to socialize with other people and other dogs.

Never keep your dog in confined spaces or tied up.

Why does a dog lick its paw? out of anxiety

If the dog is anxious, he usually finds relief by licking his paws in an exaggerated way.

The causes of anxiety in dogs can be of different nature, but it is usually separation anxiety or obsessive/compulsive disorder.

Let’s say that, in these cases, the act of licking the paws can be compared to the act of biting nails in humans.

The main reasons for your dog’s anxiety can be boredom, lack of physical activity, depression, separation from the owner for long periods of time and even illness.

Hormonal Imbalance

If a dog suffers from Cushing ‘s syndrome or hypothyroidism , they are more prone to skin conditions such as irritation, redness of the skin and flaking.

Dry skin

Dog breeds like the Chinese Crested Dog , the Mexican Hairless and the American Hairless Terrier are more prone to various skin disorders as they lack the hair that naturally protects them.

Dry skin is very common in dogs that live in areas where the climate is colder and harsher.

In these cases, you should contact your veterinarian to give your dog some dry skin oils.

Fleas or ticks

Another reason that your dog may repeatedly lick its paws is fleas and ticks.

If your dog is allergic to fleas, we recommend that you use appropriate products and medications, as the allergy can make the situation worse.

Also, be sure to keep fleas out of your apartment.

Cold

Finally, if you notice that your dog only licks its paws during the winter, the cause is almost certainly the cold that causes cracks and, in the worst case scenario, bleeding that triggers pains spread throughout your friend’s body.