Is your dog chewing paws, and are you worried this might be a sign that something is wrong? This article is for you!
Why do dogs lick at their paws? Letās discover if and when this is dangerous, and what you can do to help.
Common Reasons Dogs Chew Their Paws
Having a dog biting paws is no less normal than having them run around and chase tails. As long as it happens moderately, this behavior is perfectly acceptable. However, if this behavior persists, this might be a sign that somethingās wrong.
Following is a list of common reasons that can cause your canine to chew at their paws:
Allergies
One of the most common culprits behind a dog constantly licking paws is allergy. As with humans, various allergens can make your furry companion sensitive, and these can have a range of sources.
Food allergies
Some dogs are intolerant of certain types of food. According to PetMD, this most commonly includes beef, chicken, soy, or wheat. However, your pooch might be allergic to basically anything.
Allergies to food may result in itchy skin, which would provoke excessive paw licking and chewing.
Environmental allergies
The most prevalent environmental allergens are mold, dust, grass, and pollen. These usually affect the canineās paws, as they are in direct contact with the allergen during walks. Your pup will then bite them, as this is the only way for them to get relief.
Contact allergies
Certain chemicals in cleaning supplies, dog shampoos, or even dog beds contain irritants. The most common sign of this is if your dog starts biting at their paws excessively when introduced to a new product or substance.
Parasites
Parasites, such as fleas and ticks, are another extremely common cause of dog licking paws.Ā
If your pet has parasites, this can result in more severe issues than just itchy paws, so itās essential to deal with them as quickly as possible.Ā
Infections
Dog paws frequently suffer from fungal and bacterial infections due to their moist environment, which is ideal for a variety of microbes. Most of them result in irritations that make your dog gnaw at their paws.
Dry Skin
Dry, flaky skin brought on by cold weather, over-bathing, or a poor diet can cause a dog's paws to itch and become uncomfortable.Ā
PetMD found out that some breeds, such as Shar Peis and American Bulldogs, are more prone to dry skin than others.
Injuries or Foreign Objects
Splinters, thorns, or tiny cuts can be the source of persistent licking and chewing. If your dog seems to be focusing on one particular paw, there may be an embedded object causing discomfort.
Behavioral Issues
Dogs also bite paws due to anxiety and boredom. If your dog keeps licking paws under stressful conditions, this can possibly be a behavior problem.
According to AMVA, behavior problems can occur together with allergies in canines. This might further impact your poochās problematic paw-biting habits.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can be linked with paw chewing. This includes arthritis, which, according to Canine Arthritis Management, affects more than 80% of dogs older than 8 years.
Signs Itās Time to Worry
While paw chewing is generally not a sign of concern, there are times when you need to take this behavior seriously. These are situations that might indicate that something is wrong:
Persistent chewing or licking
When you have a dog licking paws a lotāso much that they cannot perform their daily activities as usualāit is time to investigate the matter. Chances are your doggie is in severe pain or discomfort.
Swelling, redness, or bleeding
Any change in the appearance of your dogās paws is a concerning sign, especially if you notice any blood or swelling.
Foul odors or discharge
A bad smell or pus from the paws can indicate a bacterial or fungal infection, such as a yeast infection.Ā
Limping or visible discomfort
When a dog stops using one of their paws, they may suffer from an injury, a foreign object inside the paw, or severe pain. This is also a common sign of diseases such as arthritis or osteoporosis.Ā
How to Stop a Dog from Chewing Their Paws
There are several things you can do to keep your dog from chewing or licking their paws. These typically depend on the source of the issue, although many will work regardless of the cause.
Immediate Actions
Clean and inspect your dog's paw to remove dirt and other irritants.
Apply a dog-safe antiseptic or paw balm to soothe irritation.
Take them to a vet who will rule out any serious medical issues.
Addressing Allergies
Attempt changing your petās food if you suspect a food allergy.
Consult a veterinarian for allergy testing and possibly antihistamines and specific shampoos.
Avoid using suspected allergy items.
Managing Parasites
Examine your petās paws and hair regularly for parasites.
Use veterinarian-prescribed tick and flea preventive methods.
Behavioral Solutions
Keep your pet entertained with mental stimulation and toys to reverse boredom.
Use comfort aids such as calm music and anxiety wraps for stressed animals.
When to See a Veterinarian
If your pet's paw chewing doesn't stop or worsens despite trying homemade alternatives, it's time to visit a veterinarian. The same must follow when encountering concerning symptoms, such as blood, puffiness, and lethargy.
The veterinarian can prescribe the following:
Skin tests for allergy and infection.
Lab tests to assess whether a medical issue is present.
Prescriptions such as antibiotics, antifungals, and prescription drugs that work the best for dog licking paws due to allergies.
A visit to a behaviorist for your pet will enable them to manage tension and anxiety.
Preventing Paw Chewing in the Future
A range of actions can keep your pet from chewing paws.
Some include routine care and examination of your petās paws, including checking for any splinters and parasites and keeping them in a healthy state.
By maintaining balanced nutrition and proper intake of water, you're minimizing the chances of allergies. Same with not using chemicals in your items.
Conclusion
While dog chewing paws is a common issue, it's important to address it. Whether the problem is caused by an allergy, infection, or behavioral issues, solving it lies in identifying the cause. By regularly cleaning your dog's paws, providing your pet with all the nutrients required, and giving them all the love they need, you will keep your furry friend from ever being unhappy or uncomfortable.
It never hurts to ask the veterinarian for advice, especially if you worry your dog might be in pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you prevent your dog from chewing their paws?
Regular paw checks, proper nutrition, and flea prevention can minimize the chances of paw chewing. If allergies are the cause, reducing exposure to allergens is necessary.
Why do dogs chew their paws when theyāre upset or nervous? What can owners do about it?
Dogs can eventually develop paw chewing because of stress or anxiety. Providing mental stimulation and establishing a routine can be beneficial, and calming products may also be effective.
Should I put a cone on my dog to stop paw biting?
A cone will prevent further irritation while you work out the underlying cause, but it is not a long-term solution. Identifying and treating the underlying issue is the best approach.
