Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws?

If you ever see your dogs excessively licking their paws, you must be confused as to why they do it. Is there a problem with them or do they do it recreationally?

Well, the main reason dogs lick their paws is because they are itching. The action of licking their paws can be best compared with humans scratching an itch. As they can’t scratch with the help of fingers licking is the best option for them.

Dr. Muse, a veterinarian, says that while there are many reasons for itchy paws, the most common are metabolic issues, for example, an allergic disease, bacterial or yeast overgrowth, and neurological sensations. If you notice your dog excessively licking one paw over the others, that is often a sign of arthritis.

Amongst allergies, pollen and environmental are the most common ones. Food allergies can occur but are much rarer. Dogs with allergies have an abnormal immune response to stimuli. If you notice them acting weirdly, licking their paws and armpits when exposed to large amounts of a certain substance, get them checked up.

For bacterial and yeast infections, which are usually caused by hormone imbalances or allergies, vets will usually prescribe antifungal creams. In more severe cases, oral antifungal medication might be needed. Itches are often due to parasitic infestations, such as fleas. Remember that it is important to keep your dogs on a consistent flea and tick check.

In some cases, anxiety or boredom might determine your dog to lick their paws. Still, a visit to the vet should be on the mist. They can determine through a process of elimination is it’s a physical cause or not.

The best way to combat excessive paw licking is to keep your dogs clean and healthy and do regular check-ups.