You may have noticed your dog licking it’s paws. This can be entirely normal and just part of their self-cleaning routine. However, if their paw licking is almost obsessive, which is causing fur loss and irritated paws, there may be more to it than just their daily spruce-up. There are a number of reasons for excessive paw licking in dogs and cats, read on to find out more…
Parasites
It is always important to eliminate this possible cause; it could be fleas or harvest mites which are common from Summer to Autumn. These are tiny mites (Trombicula autumnalis), red or light brown in colour, that live in vegetation and can irritate the skin when they attach themselves and inject their digestive enzymes. If this is the case, there are some natural herbal remedies to help soothe the irritation however please speak to your vet as some licensed flea treatments may help to prevent future bites. To reduce the irritation ensure you are giving your dog skin and coat supplements. We recommend the following herbal products for dogs to help:
Our Garlic and Fenugreek Tablets help maintain normal skin function – especially when skin is sensitive or compromised. These contain high levels of antioxidants and compounds to help maintain the body’s defences against infections and parasites. Garlic and Fenugreek Tablets are particularly effective when used in combination with our Green Releaf Tablets…
These tablets contain a powerful combination of selected whole green plants to help maintain healthy skin, particularly when it’s sensitive,, with natural soothing, cleansing and pH balancing properties.
Our ultra-nourishing balms complement the range, and are perfect for soothing and moisturising dry noses, paws and skin. Handcrafted with a carefully selected blend of botanicals to naturally soothe and hydrate irritated skin.
Allergies
A skin allergy can manifest itself in your dog licking it’s paws. The causes of this can be external (such as pollen or grasses) or internal (food allergy). This should be treated in the same way as any skin condition; we recommend following our 4-step plan. This addresses food, grooming, sleeping and our herbal pet remedies for soothing the symptoms of a skin condition. For external triggered allergies, try to identify the cause and ensure you avoid the irritants above, and wash down your dog after walks. Using a lick-safe dog friendly paw balm for paw allergies will also protect and repair sore or cracked paws. For internal allergies such as food issues, you may need to consider an elimination diet.
Anxiety
When a dog licks or chews it stimulates the release of endorphins, and these ‘happy hormones’ can help reduce stress levels and calm your dog. If your dog is feeling anxious this behaviour can become almost addictive and obsessive. Try to work out what is the source on the anxiety; could it be a new member of the household? Builders working next door? Age related stress? Owner leaving for work? Just to name a few. Try to distract your dog and break the routine if they always tend to show this behaviour in a specific place or at a specific time. Scullcap & Valerian Tablets for dogs are the perfect natural choice to help them cope better and to reduce anxiety . Give daily for a minimum of one month.
Boredom
Ensure your dog is properly exercised and stimulated. Dogs which are traditionally from working backgrounds such as collies, spaniels, poodles, huskies or terriers can get bored easily if they are not stimulated mentally as well as physically. Try varying your walk to new areas which have a whole different set of smells and noises or try running with your dog. Do some basic obedience training or teach your dog a trick – you’ll be amazed how much your dog will enjoy this and tire them out!
Pain
Although not nice to think of, if dogs are suffering from pain, often, licking it’s paws or chewing is a way of dealing with the discomfort. So do monitor your dog and see if there are any other symptoms which could indicate a medical issue. A quick vet visit is a good way of putting your mind at rest.
Garlic & Fenugreek Tablets, Green Releaf Tablets and Soothe & Calm Dog Shampoo are 3 of our top recommended products if your dog is suffering from irritated skin or cracked paws.
To find out more about our herbal products for dogs, contact our friendly team of experts on 01308 897272, use our contact form, or email info@dorwest.com.
Please remember, you should always consult a vet if you are concerned about your pet’s health.
2 thoughts on "Why Is My Dog Licking Its Paws?"
Hi. My Shiranian has been treated at the vets with steroids, then apoquel for what they suspect to be allergies (not confirmed). The treatment hasn’t solved his problems. He was treated for yeast infection in his ears which is ok now, but I think he has yeast skin infections. He has scabs in his body, he has sore paws and licks often. They are brown greasy from licking. They are hot. One paw is red and bleeds. He has red skin under his armpit. He is sad now and I’m sad for him. I’d much prefer to treat him with natural, less invasive remedies. I need something for instant relief and to get this issue under control. Can you please help me?
Hi Angela – We would recommend our Skin Duo, Green Releaf Tablets and Garlic & Fenugreek Tablets. These work best when used together as the garlic provides soothing and cleansing effects, as well as helping to maintain the body's defences against parasites and infectious agents while fenugreek contains soothing and antioxidant compounds. Plus the whole green plants in the Green Releaf Tablets help to maintain healthy skin particularly when sensitive. Since the skin typically takes 3 weeks to regenerate, we recommend using these products for at least one month before expecting to see improvement.
You could also use our Skin Balm which is perfect for soothing and moisturising sensitive spots on the skin and our Paw & Nose Balm which will help to moisturise and nourish his paws.
I hope this helps! For further information on any of our products, please do get in touch with our advisors – email advice@dorwest.com or call 01308897272