dog health · Jan 01, 2024

Dog Licking And Chewing Paws: A Tail Of Mystery And Mischief

Ever caught your dog in the act of giving their paws a good ol' tongue bath or a chew session? Welcome to the club! Dog licking and chewing paws isn't just a random doggy quirk; it's a full-fledged canine hobby, like humans with their Netflix binges or gourmet cooking experiments. So, let's embark on a journey to understand this paw-dicular behavior.

The Great Paw Mystery: Why Do Dogs Do It?

Why, oh why, does your four-legged friend find their paws as intriguing as we find the last season of our favorite TV show? Here's the scoop:

1. The Self-Cleaning Mode

First up, dog licking and chewing paws is their version of personal grooming. No soaps or shampoos, just good old saliva. They’re keeping those paws in tip-top shape – after all, who doesn't appreciate clean feet?

2. The Itch They Can't Scratch

Just like us after a mosquito decides we're its next meal, dogs get itchy. And sometimes, that itchiness is right in their paws. Allergies, irritants, or just dry skin can turn their paws into an itch fest.

Check out: Dog Itch: Why Is My Dog Constantly Scratching?

3. The Secret Agony

Ever stepped on a Lego piece barefoot? Ouch, right? Dogs experience similar 'ouch' moments. A thorn, a sharp rock, or just a rough patch can make dog licking and chewing paws a go-to relief strategy.

4. The Stress-Buster

Dogs, much like their human counterparts, can get stressed or anxious. When they do, they turn to their paws for some self-soothing. It's their version of stress-eating, minus the calories.

5. The Unwanted Guests

And by guests, I mean those pesky parasites like fleas or ticks that love to lurk between those paw pads. Dog licking and chewing paws then becomes more of an eviction process.

The Sherlock Holmes In You: When to Worry?

While a bit of paw-licking is fine, too much can spell trouble. It's like enjoying a glass of wine; one glass is fine, but a whole bottle? Not so much.

Read: Why Do Dogs Lick Their feet?

The Obsession

If your furry friend is going at their paws like there's no tomorrow, red flags should go up. This could lead to infections or even behavioral issues. It's time to turn into a detective and figure out why.

Paw Inspection League

Regularly inspect those paws. Look for anything amiss – redness, swelling, cuts, or even the dreaded thorn. Sometimes the cause is as obvious as the nose on your face.

Vet Time

If things seem out of hand, or if you're just unsure, the vet is your best bet. They're like the detectives in the pet world, ready to solve the case of the over-licked paw.

Prevention: The Best Medicine

Preventing excessive dog licking and chewing paws is all about being proactive. Think of it like brushing your teeth to prevent cavities.

Regular grooming is key. Keep the fur around the paws trimmed, and the nails clipped. It's like a spa day for your dog's feet.
Be mindful of where you take your pooch for walks. Avoid areas that might hurt or irritate their paws. It's like choosing the right pair of shoes for the right occasion.
Check what they eat. Sometimes allergies can start from the inside out. It's like us realizing that too much pizza might not be the best idea.
Keep your dog busy, mentally and physically. A bored dog is more likely to start obsessing over their paws. It's like us binge-watching TV when we're bored – not the healthiest habit.

In the grand scheme of things, dog licking and chewing paws is part of the canine package. It's like buying a car; you know there's going to be some maintenance involved. Our role as pet parents is to ensure this behavior stays in the 'normal' range and to step in when it seems like it's veering off-course.

So, the next time you catch your furry buddy in the midst of a paw-licking session, take a moment to watch. Is it a quick clean, or is there more to the story? Understanding "the why" behind dog licking and chewing paws not only makes you a more informed pet parent but also deepens the bond between you and your four-legged friend.

FAQ

When Should I Take My Dog To The Vet For Licking His Paws?

Take your dog to the vet for licking their paws if you notice persistent licking, signs of infection like redness or swelling, any pain or limping, or if the behavior doesn't improve with basic home care. It's always better to consult a vet if you're unsure or if the licking leads to any noticeable damage to the paw.

What Your Dog Is Trying To Warn About When They Lick Their Paws?

When your dog excessively licks their paws, they might be trying to tell you about:

Discomfort or Pain: They could be feeling pain or discomfort in their paws, possibly due to injury, a foreign object, or arthritis.
Allergies: Allergic reactions to food, pollen, or chemicals can cause itchy paws.
Skin Problems: Infections, parasites, or dry skin can make their paws itchy, leading to licking.
Stress or Anxiety: Sometimes, paw licking is a self-soothing behavior for anxious or bored dogs.
Boredom: Lack of mental and physical stimulation might lead to compulsive behaviors like paw licking.

Understanding these signs can help you address any underlying issues your dog may be facing.