7 reasons why your dog licks his paws a lot (and how to fix it)

If your dog licks its paws a lot, it could be a sign of underlying health problems including allergies, boredom, stress, habit, pain, dry skin and fleas or ticks. Although it may seem harmless in most cases, it is important to understand what causes it because as responsible dog owners, it is our duty to take the necessary steps to keep our furry friends healthy and well!

In this article we take a closer look at the main reason why your dog licks their paws excessively and what you can do about it.

1. Your dog is itchy and tries to relieve it by licking and biting

The most common reason why a dog licks its paw is because it is itchy. This can be caused by a number of different factors, such as allergies, insect bites or skin irritation. If you suspect your dog is itchy, inspect him for irritation or rash. It can also help to investigate whether there are certain foods your dog ingests that cause allergic reactions.

2. Your dog is simply bored

If your dog is bored, this can lead to unwanted behavior. Excessive paw licking is an example of this. That's why it's important to understand that dogs, just like people, need mental and physical stimulation. Otherwise, he may start to get bored and this in turn can lead to unwanted habits. So make sure you continuously challenge your dog. Take walks, use playtime and training. Perhaps introducing some toys and teaching him new tricks can also help!

3. Your dog licks excessively due to stress or anxiety

Is your dog stressed? Anxious? In that case, excessive paw licking may be a way he uses to calm himself down. If you suspect that your dog is stressed, it is a good idea to consult your veterinarian. It may help to reduce elements in your dog's environment that can cause anxiety and stress – such as too much stimulation from noise and smells – or to implement training and relaxation techniques.

4. Your dog is in pain, an injury or a condition

If your dog suddenly starts licking their paws, it could indicate pain or irritation, especially if they are only licking one paw. If the licking is limited to one paw, the source of the problem is likely there. The pain in that area can be caused by almost anything, but common culprits are insect bites, thorns, small wounds, small pieces of embedded glass, broken nails, and so on.

Even if you don't see anything with your naked eye, don't ignore it. Sometimes there may be something going on that you cannot immediately see from the outside, such as a strained muscle or some kind of inflammation or fracture, especially if the licking is accompanied by a limp. The vet can perform an evaluation to identify the cause of the pain and provide appropriate treatment.

5. Your dog suffers from dry skin

Just like in humans, dry skin in dogs can cause itching and irritation, which in turn results in excessive licking and chewing (or biting) of the paws. The weather, lack of water and an unhealthy diet can affect your dog's skin. If you suspect that your dog is suffering from dry skin, you can try adjusting his diet by feeding him food rich in essential fatty acids. You may also consider using a moisturizing cream made for dogs.

6. Your dog suffers from an allergy

An allergy can cause your dog to excessively lick and bite his paws, especially between his toes. The allergy can be caused by food, pollen, dust or other substances. If you suspect that your dog suffers from an allergy, it is best to contact your veterinarian. The vet can perform an allergy test and then prescribe the appropriate treatment.

7. Your dog has fleas or ticks

If your dog is bothered by fleas or ticks, this can lead to itching and then irritation. It is important to check regularly for fleas and ticks. If necessary, it is best to use a preventive measure. If your dog has already been bitten by fleas or ticks, your vet can prescribe treatment to reduce itching and heal their skin. Also make sure you keep your dog's environment clean and free of fleas and ticks.

What is the solution for excessive paw licking?

It's important to remember that paw licking in dogs can be normal behavior, but it can also be a sign of underlying problems.

If you suspect that your dog is experiencing pain or discomfort, we recommend that you contact a veterinarian immediately to confirm the diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment. If licking of the paws persists, you can also consult a dog trainer or dog behavior therapist. Your dog may have certain triggers that cause the behavior, and a professional can help identify and correct these.