Dog licks his paws: when to worry
When the dog licks its paws, it provides for its daily hygiene.
Paw licking is a common behavior in dogs who, by doing so, remove debris, bacteria and dirt from their skin and fur.
However, when licking becomes excessive compared to normal hygiene, it could be a sign of discomfort or a symptom of a health problem.
Main causes of excessive paw licking
Figuring out whether paw licking is a sign of a health problem requires attention to detail.
In fact, the causes of excessive paw licking can be many, and identifying the triggers is the first step in intervening.
Environmental and food allergies can cause skin irritation that leads dogs to lick themselves to relieve itching.
The same goes for bacterial or fungal infections: they too can cause inflammation and itching, and the dog may then lick itself to try to soothe the pain or discomfort.
Low temperatures also can cause skin dryness and cracking, making fingertips more prone to cuts and bleeding.
Or, if a dog has pain in one paw due to an injury or illness, he may lick the affected area in an attempt to treat it or relieve the pain.
Licking from allergic flea dermatitis: the DAP
Parasites, such as fleas and ticks, can cause intense itching and irritation in the dog’s paws.
Fleas, especially, are capable of triggering true allergic reactions in some cases.
Specifically, when the dog’s hypersensitive reaction to the saliva of these obnoxious parasites causes extreme itching, we speak of DAP i.e., allergic flea dermatitis.
Hygiene and care of dog’s paws
It is important to check paws regularly for signs of irritation, redness, swelling, cracking, small cuts or wounds, loss of fur or secretions in licked areas.
Maintaining good dog paw hygiene is essential to prevent skin problems and excessive licking behavior.
Pest treatments, then, must be given regularly.
The dog licking its paws and the psychological factor
There are cases when paw licking can become a compulsive behavior, often associated with stress, anxiety or boredom.
Watch carefully for situations that might cause your dog stress or anxiety, such as loud noises, stranger visits, travel, and moving around.
One of the most stressful conditions isseparation anxiety, which affects dogs who are forced to be alone in the house for many hours a day or who suddenly face loneliness.
Dogs need mental and physical stimulation to stay active and balanced
In addition to loneliness, lack of activity can also lead to boredom, prompting the dog to lick its paws as a form of venting.
In the absence of these stimuli, they may develop repetitive behaviors such as paw licking-it is the only way dogs can relieve their frustration.
An anxious dog might also seek relief through compulsive and self-injurious behaviors such as biting or even gnawing its paws.
To prevent your dog from becoming bored and developing these habits, you need to provide him with a proper daily routine, comfortable spaces and proper socialization.
If you notice your dog licking its paws excessively, contact our Staff Veterinary Doctors who are always available for a consultation.
We would also like to remind you that Clinica La Veterinaria is always open h24 every day including holidays and with First Aid service from 8 pm to 8 am.
