Does your dog compulsively lick their paws? If so, you’re not alone – paw licking is a common behavior in canines.1 This blog post will discuss the most recommended dog licking paws treatment and the common causes of the habit.
1. Stress or Anxiety
Dogs often lick their paws when they’re feeling anxious or stressed. This behavior is their way of seeking comfort or calming themselves down in an unfamiliar or uncomfortable situation. If your dog is licking their paws more than usual, examine their environment to see if anything has recently changed or if there are any stressors that could be causing them distress.2
2. Allergies
Allergies are a common cause of paw licking in dogs. It’s important to distinguish between contact allergies and inhalant allergies. Contact allergies are caused by direct contact with something the dog is sensitive to, such as grass or pollen. Inhalant allergies are caused by allergens in the air, like dust or mold.3
If your dog’s paw licking is associated with an allergic reaction, it’s important to identify the allergen and keep your pup away from it. You can also consult with your vet about treating the allergy with an antihistamine or other medication.3
3. Boredom or Lack of Exercise
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from boredom or lack of physical activity. If your pup is not getting enough exercise, they may resort to paw licking as a way to keep themselves entertained.4
Make sure to provide plenty of stimulation for your dog, like walks, playtime, and toys. If your pup is bored, find a new activity or game to keep them mentally and physically active.4
4. Parasites
Parasites, like fleas and ticks, can also cause dogs to lick their paws excessively. These parasites can cause skin irritation, itching, and inflammation, leading your pup to lick their paws in an attempt to soothe the discomfort.5
Check your dog’s paws regularly for any signs of parasites, and consult your vet if you suspect your pup has a parasite infestation.5
5. Pain
Finally, pain or discomfort can also be a cause of paw licking in dogs. If your pup is licking their paws due to pain, it’s important to consult your vet about treatment options. Additionally, make sure to provide extra cuddles and comfort for your pup during times of distress or discomfort.6
Once you’ve ruled out any medical issues, it’s important to find the best way to treat your pup’s paw-licking behavior. Here are some of the most recommended dog licking paws treatment.
1. Change Your Pup’s Diet
If your pup is licking their paws due to an allergy, it may be helpful to switch their diet to one that is tailored to their needs. This may include eliminating certain ingredients or introducing a hypoallergenic food.
2. Keep Their Paws Clean
Regularly washing and drying your pup’s paws can help reduce the urge to lick. This will also help keep bacteria and fungus from building up.
3. Use a Bitter Spray
Spraying a bitter-tasting solution such as Grannick’s Bitter Apple on their paws can help discourage licking.
4. Provide Toys
Giving your pup toys to chew or play with can help redirect their attention away from licking.
5. Use Distractions
If your pup is licking their paws, try to distract them with a treat or toy.
6. Speak to a Trainer
If the above methods aren’t working, it may be helpful to speak to a professional dog trainer who can teach your pup alternative behaviors to help reduce their paw-licking.
In conclusion, paw licking can be caused by a variety of underlying factors, such as stress, anxiety, allergies, boredom, parasites, and pain. To address these underlying issues and prevent paw licking, it’s important to provide plenty of mental stimulation, physical activity, and comfort for your pup. Additionally, it’s important to maintain a healthy, low-stress lifestyle for your pup and to keep an eye out for signs of allergies or parasites. By following these tips, you can help keep your pup’s paws healthy and itch-free.
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Citations
- https://www.thewildest.com/dog-health/why-my-dog-excessively-licking-his-paws
- https://eastlongmeadowanimalhospital.com/why-is-my-dog-constantly-licking-their-paws/
- https://www.petmd.com/dog/slideshows/10-common-paw-problems-dogs
- https://petcube.com/blog/dog-licking-paws/
- https://orlandovets.com/blog/why-does-my-dog-lick-his-paws/
- https://www.caninejournal.com/why-do-dogs-lick-their-paws/
