What are the top reasons behind dogs licking their paws?

If your Dog is also licking paws even after you try to distract them through treats, food, or favorite toys, this time calls for a talk. Though it is seen that, pets licking their paws is quite an expected behavior as they do it to clean all the dust that got stuck after a walk. But if your Dog is chewing or licking its paws excessively and doesn’t  stop even if you try repeatedly and causing harm to themselves by chewing their paws, then it is time for you to take a closer look and identify the real issue. In this article, we are going to tell you the top reason why dogs lick their paws.

Why do dogs lick their paws?

Here are some of the common reason why our dogs keep on licking or chewing their paws:

1. Food allergies

Humans experience allergies due to various foods, which causes reactions such as itching and clogged throats; in the same way, even dogs experience food allergies, resulting in an itchy throat, and they might feel severely uncomfortable. When dogs experience sensation and itchiness in their paws, it is a common indication that they are facing food allergies. Some of the ingredients like grains, chicken, or dairy content in dog food can cause food allergies, and they try to scratch themselves to achieve comfort. If your pet is also acting weird while or after eating the food, then it is time to take a look and figure out the problem.

2. Aches and Pains

Dog’s Paws are the foundation of their smooth mobility. That is why when they find any discomfort, they lick their paws and even manage their aches and pains through this only. If you witness your Dog licking their paws from one place constantly then it indicates that they are suffering from pain. Check your fur baby’s paws for any cut, sting, burn, etc., and treat it with the help of a pet first aid kit.

3. Self – Grooming

We often forget to groom our pets, but our dogs do it on their own. They regularly lick their paws, hands, and other body parts to remove any dirt that might get collected from outside. You need not be on high alert all the time if you see your Dog licking its paws, as it is a healthy habit to keep themselves clean. However, the only drawback of licking the paws is that it leads to foul odor. 

4. Skin irritation

Dogs also lick their paws when their skin gets itchy. Skin irritation is often caused by environmental allergies, such as weeds, dust, or wood, which irritate the skin. Some other symptoms of skin irritation are swollen eyes or runny nose. We can prevent skin irritation by regular grooming and triggering particles. Skin irritation can be a common reason behind “why do dogs lick their paws”.

5. Parasites

As dogs walk on their paws, it is easy for parasites or other tiny creatures to get stuck on their paws. Some parasites like ticks, lice, fleas, or mites which can reside in your dog’s paws, leading them to aggressive reproduction of parasites on their paws. Though parasites are not contagious, constant licking from one body part to another can cause the parasite infection to spread. Check on your Dog’s coat for any pests; if you do find some, take quick precautions.

6. Secondary infection

Though there are many reasons for dogs licking their paws, constant and aggressive licking calls for quick action. It is not advisable to wait longer if your Dog is constantly being harsh with its paws, as it can lead to infection. Frequent licking causes moisture in a particular place, which often results in yeast or bacterial infection. 

7. Separation Anxiety and Boredom

Sometimes, we get so busy with our schedule that we cannot give enough attention to our fur babies, which causes boredom, and they eventually start licking their paws. The separation anxiety leads to habits like barking, chewing, and digging. However, to avoid this situation, you can provide their favorite toys, blankets, or chewy toys, which can be a great distraction. 

8. Overgrowth of Fur

Another reason behind constant licking can be abnormal growth on one of the paws, such as a tumor or cyst or some injury to the bone. Though Arthritis is a bone disease that cannot be seen with the naked eye, if you see your Dog concentrating on one paw, there could be some hidden injury that needs to be treated quickly.

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Conclusion 

There are various reasons behind “why do dogs lick their paws”. The dog owners must check other symptoms also to identify the actual problem. Licking the paws is normal behavior of the dogs. They may lick their paws for cleaning, dryness, extra growth of fur, etc. However, there can be some health issues like infection paws that lead to frequent paw licking.  It’s better to gain all the information regarding “why do dogs lick their paws” and treat your fur baby. 

Dog Paw Licking: FAQs

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