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Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws? 10 Shocking Reasons & How to Stop It Fast!
If you’ve ever caught your dog obsessively licking their paws, you’re not alone. But is it just a quirky habit, or is there something more serious going on? Chronic paw licking can signal underlying health issues, allergies, or even anxiety. If left untreated, it can lead to raw skin, infections, and constant discomfort for your furry friend. So why do dogs lick their paws, and what can you do to stop it?
Let’s dive into 10 possible causes of paw licking and the best solutions
10 Reasons Why Dogs Lick Their Paws (and How to Fix It!)
Some occasional paw licking is normal—after all, dogs groom themselves just like we do. But if your dog is constantly licking, biting, or chewing their paws, it’s time to investigate. Here are the top reasons behind this behavior:
Please note: ALWAYS seek medical advice first from your veterinarian before attempting to treat you pet.
1. Allergies (The #1 Culprit!)
If your dog licks their paws every single day, allergies are likely to blame. Dogs can suffer from: Food allergies (chicken, beef, dairy, wheat, etc.) Environmental allergies (pollen, dust, mold, grass, etc.) Chemical sensitivities (floor cleaners, lawn treatments, shampoos)
How to Fix It:
✔️ Switch to limited-ingredient dog food like Hill’s Prescription Diet Skin/Food Sensitivities
✔️ Try hypoallergenic treats like Zesty Paws Allergy Immune Bites
✔️ Use a gentle paw cleaner after walks, such as Paw Soother & Cleaner Wipes
2. Dry Skin & Paw Pad Cracks
Winter weather, dry indoor air, and excessive licking can all dry out your dog’s paw pads, making them cracked and sore.
How to Fix It:
✔️ Apply paw balm like Musher’s Secret Dog Paw Wax
✔️ Use a moisturizing shampoo like Oatmeal & Aloe Dog Shampoo
✔️ Give your pup Omega-3 supplements like Grizzly Salmon Oil
3. Anxiety, Boredom, or Stress
Just like people bite their nails, dogs lick their paws when they’re anxious. Separation anxiety, loud noises, or lack of mental stimulation can all trigger obsessive licking.
How to Fix It:
✔️ Keep your pup occupied with interactive toys like KONG Classic Dog Toy
✔️ Use a calming supplement like NaturVet Quiet Moments Calming Aid
✔️ Try a weighted anxiety vest like Thundershirt Dog Anxiety Jacket
4. Fleas, Ticks, or Mites
If your dog’s licking is focused on one specific paw, check for flea bites, tick infestations, or tiny mites burrowing under the skin.
How to Fix It:
✔️ Use flea & tick prevention like Frontline Plus for Dogs
✔️ Give a soothing anti-itch bath with Vet’s Best Flea Itch Relief Shampoo
✔️ Try natural flea repellents like Wondercide Flea & Tick Spray
5. Yeast or Bacterial Infections
A dog’s paws are the perfect place for yeast and bacteria to thrive—especially if they’re licking constantly. Signs of infection include red, swollen, or smelly paws.
How to Fix It:
✔️ Use a medicated anti-fungal shampoo like Curaseb Antifungal Dog Shampoo
✔️ Apply antibacterial wipes like Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Wipes
✔️ Feed probiotics for gut health like Purina FortiFlora Probiotic Powder
6. Pain from Arthritis or Joint Issues
If your senior dog licks the same paw repeatedly, they may be dealing with arthritis, joint pain, or an old injury.
How to Fix It:
✔️ Add joint supplements like Cosequin Maximum Strength
✔️ Use a heated dog bed like K&H Pet Products Heated Dog Bed
✔️ Try light massage therapy with a dog-safe muscle rub
7. Foreign Objects Stuck in the Paw
A tiny rock, thorn, or splinter stuck between the paw pads can cause constant licking.
How to Fix It:
✔️ Inspect paws after walks and remove debris with dog-safe tweezers
✔️ Use paw protection boots like Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boots
✔️ Apply antiseptic spray like Vet’s Best Hot Spot Spray
8. Hormonal Imbalances
(Hypothyroidism, Cushing’s Disease, etc.) If your dog has hair loss, weight changes, or lethargy along with paw licking, a hormonal imbalance might be the cause.
How to Fix It:
✔️ Schedule a vet check-up for hormone testing
✔️ Add hormone-balancing supplements like Thyro-Pet Natural Thyroid Support
✔️ Feed a high-quality, balanced diet with Wellness CORE Grain-Free
9. Nail Problems (Overgrown, Broken, or Ingrown Nails)
Overgrown nails can push into the paw pad, causing pain and leading to excessive licking.
How to Fix It:
✔️ Trim nails regularly with Dremel Dog Nail Grinder
✔️ Use a paw and nail balm like Burt’s Bees Paw & Nose Lotion
✔️ Try a grip-enhancing paw spray like PawFriction Dog Paw Pad Traction
10. Autoimmune Diseases
Some rare conditions, like pemphigus or lupus, can cause painful sores on the paws, leading to excessive licking.
How to Fix It:
✔️ See a veterinarian for proper diagnosis
✔️ Use immune-boosting supplements like wuffes advanced dog hip and joint supplement
✔️ Try soothing herbal remedies like Herbsmith Soothe Joints –
When to See a Vet
If your dog’s paw licking is persistent, causes bleeding, or doesn’t improve, it’s time for a vet visit.
Early intervention can prevent serious complications!
Final Thoughts:
Stop the Paw Licking for Good! Dogs lick their paws for many reasons, but the good news is—you can stop it with the right approach!
Whether it’s allergies, anxiety, or infections, addressing the root cause is key.
Want to give your pup the best paw care possible?
Check out these top-rated products to keep their paws healthy and happy!
➡️ Best Anti-Itch Supplements: Zesty Paws Allergy Bites
➡️ Best Dog Paw Moisturizer: Musher’s Secret Paw Wax
➡️ Best Flea & Tick Prevention: Frontline Plus for Dogs
Has your dog struggled with paw licking? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Please note: none of the suggestions (how to fix) should be construed as veterinary or treatment advice. None of our staff is a veterinarian and some of the products may be harmful to your particular dog.