Have you ever caught your dog licking their paws a little too much and wondered, “What’s going on down there?” Don’t worry—you’re not alone! dog licking foot and limping is something lots of pet parents notice, and while a little bit of licking is totally normal, too much can be a sign that something’s up.
Let’s break down why dogs do this and what you can do about it.
By looking at the title, you can understand what we will talk about today. Yes, today we will talk about why dogs lick. Let’s get started.
Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws?
There are several reasons why dogs lick their paws. Dogs lick their paws to keep them clean. I can say they lick their feet for self-grooming. Although dogs are not very enthusiastic about self-grooming, it can be said that if you notice your dog licking their paws once a day, it’s probably nothing to worry about.
However, if you notice your dog licking its paws repeatedly during the day, then it is definitely a cause for concern. Unless the dog has a problem, it does not do this kind of thing repeatedly. We need to target the area they are licking and observe the situation there.
Injuries
Dogs often get injured due to sports, running, jumping, etc. If we don’t pay attention to these things, then we can face danger. The dog licks the injured area several times, so it is necessary to check whether the area is swollen or not. Dogs are mostly injured by falling on sharp and hard objects or on slippery surfaces. Also, dogs sometimes find their paws stuck in various objects. So, what should we do? We must clean all areas where our pets move, run, or walk.
Growths
Another thing we need to look out for is whether your dog’s paws have any abnormal growths. Usually, they lick their paws frequently due to tumors, tissue growth, etc. What should we do right now? We should definitely report this to our vet and seek advice. Please don’t do anything on your own.
Allergies and Infections
Another reason for licking paws is allergies. We think about ourselves; just imagine how we behave when we have allergies. The same happens with dogs. Also, when dogs lick their paws frequently, the area becomes damp, making it more susceptible to bacteria and yeast. We should consult a vet to solve this problem.
Home Remedies
Many people have asked us for home remedies in this regard. Yes, there are definitely home remedies for this. If your dog has dry or chapped paws, you can use coconut oil to help soothe and soften the area quickly. For a yeast infection, you can soak the paws in a tub of 3 parts white vinegar for 10-12 minutes, then wash the paws thoroughly and pat them dry. If your dog’s paws are itchy, grind plain oats, mix them with lukewarm water, and apply as before.
Email us to know more. We will try our best to give you good advice.
There are actually quite a few reasons! Some are completely normal, but others could be a sign that something’s not quite right.
Keeping Things Clean
Sometimes, your dog is just doing a bit of grooming. After a walk or a romp in the yard, a few licks help clean off dirt or mud. It’s their way of freshening up—nothing to worry about unless it becomes a habit.
Ouch! Is Something Hurting?
A tiny cut, a splinter, or even a bug bite can cause your pup to focus on one paw. If you notice them licking just one foot a lot, it’s worth checking for any signs of injury or irritation.
Pesky Parasites or Infections
Fleas, mites, and fungal infections like yeast can all make your dog’s paws itchy and uncomfortable. These usually come with other symptoms too, like redness, swelling, or a funky smell—definitely a sign to call your vet.
Stress or Boredom
Dogs can get anxious or bored, just like people. When dogs aren’t getting enough exercise or mental engagement, they may start licking their paws as a way to deal with boredom or stress. It’s kind of like us twiddling our thumbs or chewing our nails.
Dry or Cracked Skin
Cold weather, dry air, or walking on salty sidewalks can dry out your dog’s paw pads. Licking helps them try to add moisture, but it’s not the best long-term solution.
Is Coconut Oil Safe?
Many people ask us if coconut oil is safe. Yes, coconut oil is definitely safe. It has antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties that are great for healing wounds. It helps relieve itching and pain from various bacterial infections. (Although coconut oil is beneficial, do not rely solely on it to treat your dog’s infection. We must seek the advice of a good vet.)
When Should You Worry?
If your dog is licking their paws a lot and you notice redness, swelling, limping, or any cuts or scabs, it’s time to check in with your vet. It’s always better to catch things early and get the right treatment.
Tips to Help Your Pup
Here are a few easy things you can do to keep those paws happy and healthy:
- Wipe their paws after walks to remove allergens or irritants.
- Try a moisturizing paw balm to soothe dry or cracked pads.
- Keep an eye on their diet if you suspect food allergies.
- Offer puzzle toys and playtime to prevent boredom.
- Stick to a calming routine if your dog is feeling anxious.
Wrapping It Up
A little paw licking here and there is usually nothing to stress about—but if your dog is licking a lot, it could be their way of telling you something’s not right. Paying attention to their behavior and checking in with your vet when needed can go a long way in keeping your furry friend comfy and healthy.
Got a paw-licking pup at home? You’re not alone—and now you’ve got the know-how to help them out! 🐶💛
