Why Dogs Lick Their Paws, and Should You be Concerned?

There are a multitude of reasons why your pet might chew or lick its paws. 

Dogs may sometimes self-groom by licking their paws and other body parts. However, if they show a new specific interest and appear to be uncomfortable or focused on an area or areas of their paws, this may indicate a cause for concern and require a visit to the vet to determine the cause, and initiate some treatment.    

Common reasons that dogs lick or chew their paws include: 

• Allergies resulting in dermatitis

• Nail injuries

• Bee stings

• Objects stuck in their paws like grass seeds, plant burrs, or small rocks

• Infections- yeast and bacterial

• Wounds 

• Emotional conditions like stress, anxiety, or even boredom

• Burns 

• Chemical irritants

• Pain from arthritic joints, sprains or fractures

When to bring your pet to the vet for their paws

You should contact us or book an appointment if your dog is:

• Showing a new, unusual interest in their paws

• Obsessively licking and chewing

• Not letting you examine the affected area, or if the area is red and swollen

• Showing changes in behaviour

• Exhibiting signs of pain, discomfort

• Limping

We are always happy to help and advise you, don't hesitate to contact us  if you have concerns with your furry family.