My dog licks his paws: is it normal or should I be worried?
It is completely normal for a dog to lick its paws from time to time. It is part of their hygiene routine and a way to remove dirt or small irritations after a walk.
However, when the licking becomes constant or excessive, it can be a sign that something is wrong. The cause can be as simple as dry paw pads or as complex as an allergy or an injury.
Observing your dog's behavior and checking its paws frequently is the best way to detect a problem before it gets worse.
Why does my dog lick his paws?
There are different reasons why a dog may lick its paws.
Dry paw pads
This is one of the most common causes.
When the pads lose hydration, small discomforts appear that cause the dog to try to relieve the sensation by licking.
Over time, this continuous licking can worsen the dryness and encourage the appearance of cracks.
Small wounds
After a walk, small stones, grass seeds, or even superficial cuts can get trapped.
Although they are barely visible, they are usually uncomfortable for the dog.
Asphalt burns
During the summer, the pavement reaches very high temperatures.
If the dog walks on hot asphalt, it can suffer from irritation or small burns that will cause discomfort for several days.
Allergies
Environmental or food allergies can also cause itching in the paws.
In these cases, it is common for the dog to also show redness between the toes or irritation in other areas of the body.
Humidity
After walking in the rain or bathing, if the paws remain damp for a long time, irritation can appear.
For this reason, it is advisable to always dry them upon arriving home.
Stress or boredom
Some dogs develop the habit of licking their paws when they are nervous or spend many hours without activity.
If there is no visible injury and the behavior always appears in certain situations, it is worth considering this possibility.
How to know what the cause is
Before thinking about more complex problems, check the paws carefully.
Check if there are:
-
Cracks.
-
Dryness.
-
Cuts.
-
Grass seeds.
-
Stones.
-
Redness.
-
Swelling.
-
Broken nails.
A quick inspection usually offers many clues.
What to do if your dog licks its paws
Clean the paw pads
After the walk, remove traces of mud, sand, or dirt.
Use warm water and dry the entire area well.
Check for wounds
Look between the toes and the pads.
Sometimes a small grass seed can be enough to cause constant licking.
Keep the paw pads hydrated
If you notice the skin is dry or rough, applying a specific balm helps to recover natural hydration and reduces discomfort.
Well-cared-for skin is less prone to cracking and causing discomfort.
Avoid hot asphalt
In summer, try to walk during the early morning hours or in the late afternoon.
High temperatures are one of the main causes of irritation in the paws.
Observe their behavior
If the licking disappears after checking and hydrating the paw pads, the problem was probably related to a specific annoyance.
If it continues for several days, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
When to go to the vet
Although the problem often has a simple solution, there are situations where it is advisable to seek professional help.
Consult your vet if you observe:
-
Bleeding.
-
Deep wounds.
-
Significant swelling.
-
Limping.
-
Bad odor.
-
Pus.
-
Constant licking for several days.
-
Changes in the skin.
These symptoms can indicate an infection, an allergy, or an injury that needs treatment.
How to prevent this problem
The best way to prevent your dog from licking its paws is to maintain a care routine.
Some tips are:
-
Check the paws after every walk.
-
Keep the paw pads hydrated.
-
Avoid walking on very hot asphalt.
-
Dry the paws well after the rain.
-
Check that there are no grass seeds or small wounds.
-
Keep the nails properly trimmed.
With a few minutes of checking, you can prevent most problems.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for my dog to lick his paws every day?
Occasional licking is normal. If they do it repetitively or for long periods, it is worth checking their paws.
Can dry paw pads make my dog lick?
Yes. Dryness causes discomfort, and many dogs try to relieve that sensation by licking.
Should I worry if I don't find any wounds?
If the behavior continues for several days or appears along with other symptoms, it is advisable to go to the vet to rule out allergies or other problems.
How can I stop them from continuing to lick?
By identifying the cause. In many cases, it is enough to keep the paw pads clean, hydrated, and protected.
Conclusion
A dog licking its paws occasionally falls within normal behavior. However, when the licking is constant, it usually indicates that there is some discomfort that should be identified.
Periodic checking, proper hygiene, and keeping the paw pads well-hydrated will help prevent many of the most frequent causes and will allow your dog to enjoy its walks without discomfort.