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Dog Licking Their Paws Excessively: Tips and Tricks
Dogs are notorious for licking themselves, but when they start licking their paws excessively, it may be a sign of an underlying issue. In this post, we’ll explore some of the reasons why dogs lick their paws excessively and provide tips and tricks to stop the behavior.
(Above in a organic bitter spray to prevent licking fur, skin, furniture and paws on Amazon)
If your dog is licking their paws constantly, it’s essential to get to the root of the problem to ensure they stay healthy and happy.
Reasons Why Dogs Lick Their Paws Excessively
Before we dive into how to stop your dog from licking their paws excessively, it’s important to understand why they’re doing it in the first place. Here are some of the most common reasons:
1. Allergies (Environmental and Food)
Allergies are a common cause of excessive paw licking in dogs. Environmental allergies, such as pollen or dust mites, can cause itching and irritation in the paws.
2. Infections (such as Yeast Infection)
Bacterial or fungal infections can also cause excessive paw licking in dogs. Infections can occur between the toes or on the paw pads.
3. Canine Anxiety
Dogs may also lick their paws excessively as a coping mechanism for anxiety or stress. This behavior can be a sign that your dog is feeling overwhelmed.
4. Doggy Boredom
If your dog is bored or lacks mental stimulation, they may lick their paws excessively. Some dogs will get to a place where they will obsess and their paws may be the object of this.
Tips to Stop Excessive Paw Licking
Now that we’ve explored some of the reasons why dogs lick their paws excessively, let’s take a look at some tips and tricks to stop the behavior.
1. Visit the Vet
If you notice that your dog is licking their paws excessively, the first step is to visit the vet. Your vet will examine your dog and determine if there’s an underlying health issue, such as an infection or allergy.
2. Keep Your Dog’s Paws Clean and Dry
Keeping your dog’s paws clean and dry can help prevent infections and reduce itching. Make sure to dry your dog’s paws thoroughly after they’ve been outside or after a bath.
3. Provide Mental Stimulation
If your dog is licking their paws out of boredom, providing mental stimulation can help redirect their behavior. Puzzle toys, chew toys, and interactive games are all great options.
4. Address Anxiety and Stress
Some dog licking their paws, chew, pace or bark as a coping mechanism for their canine anxiety or stress. So it’s essential to address the underlying issue. Talk to your vet about potential treatments. Consider natural treats to help calm them. Or work with a professional dog trainer to develop a behavior modification plan.
5. Use a Bitter Spray
If your dog is licking their paws due to an infection or injury, a bitter spray can help deter the behavior. Bitter sprays are safe to use on your dog’s skin and can help discourage licking.
6. Consider a Diet Change
If your dog is continually chewing or licking it may be due to allergies. Just like their human counterparts some dogs suffer with allergies. So it may be necessary to change your dogs diet. Talk to your vet about potential food allergies and consider switching your dog to a hypoallergenic diet.
7. Use a Cone or Booties (Available in Lots of Sizes for Your Dogs Breed)
If your dog is prone to excessive paw licking, a cone or booties can help prevent them from accessing their paws. While these options may not be the most comfortable for your dog, dog booties may help prevent further irritation and promote healing.
Concluding How to Stop Your Dog Licking Paws Excessively
Once you get to the root of your dog licking their paws, you will be able to treat the issues. It may time a little patience and time while making any adjustments. But once you find the right solution you will have a happier and healthier dog.
If it is a case of anxiety then consider online programs that’s designed be experts to teach a dog new habits.
Visit the Best Dog Training Program
Our favorite: The Dunbar Academy Training Program. If you want a happy and obedient dog, this is one of the best online dog training programs available today! You can get the first month free using dunbar.info/RescueDogHappiness <