Why Your Dog Licks Their Paws

Are you catching your dog licking or chewing their paws much more often than usual? Although it's normal for them to lick their paws from time to time as a "self-grooming" practice, a sudden increase might be a sign that something isn’t quite right.

What could make your dog start licking their paws a lot?

An injury

If they seem to focus on one paw, the first thing to check is whether there’s any sign of injury. It could be a cut, a damaged nail, an insect bite or something stuck between the pads. Examine the entire paw: front and back, nails and pads.

A skin issue

Dermatitis can make your dog want to lick and chew their paws. This skin problem is cause by bacterial infections, allergies or even food sensitivities. 

A parasite

Fleas or mites can cause itchy paws, and the only way to relieve your dog’s discomfort is with a specific treatment that eliminates the parasites.

A food allergy

Food allergy often cause itchiness in the paws, but it can be difficult to identify which ingredient is responsible. Consult your vet for advice on what to eliminate from your dog’s diet to see if the symptoms improve.

Pain

Dogs suffering from arthritis may lick their paws. The pain might also originate elsewhere in the body, but they may lick a paw as a way of coping with it.

If your dog is constantly licking one or both paws, develops other symptoms or appears unwell, don’t hesitate to take them to the vet, as this behaviour can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition.