If you are a dog owner like me, you know that dogs are much like children. They need a lot of attention, and training. But unlike your human children, dogs can’t speak the same language you and I speak, but they do have their own way of communicating with us. from excessive barking, to warn you that someone is coming, to running in a circle to ask for a treat.
Often times it’s pretty difficult to tell when something is wrong, or when your furry friend is experiencing discomfort.
Most dogs lick their paws occasionally as part of normal grooming, but sometimes you may notice that your dog is licking more than usual. This behavior may seem harmless at first, but it can hint at more serious underlying issues, and it can also cause irritation to your dog’s skin. If you notice that your four legged furry child has suddenly started licking its paws more frequently than usual, you may want to talk to your veterinarian and other professionals to see if any of these common reasons dogs lick their paws are making your dog uncomfortable.
According to ultimatedoghealth.com, some breeds such as Golden Retrievers have seen their average lifespans cut nearly in half over the past 30 years.
And veterinary research shows a major factor is the “high heat” cooking method of common dog foods, which adds toxins such as advanced glycation end products and maillard reaction products to kibble, canned food, and even many premium dog foods.
“These toxins are hidden from the label, because they’re created when the food is cooked,” says Richter. “But they’re in the food nonetheless.”
Here’s 5 reasons why your dog may be licking their paws excessively.
Pain
Dogs sometimes they hide their pain very well. Excessive licking can be a subtle sign that something is hurting them. The causes of this kind of pain can range from arthritis to injuries to a thorny plant or other foreign object embedded under the skin. Regardless, if your dog suddenly starts licking excessively, it’s a good idea to call your vet and schedule a check-up to rule out physical causes.
Allergies
Another common reason dogs lick their paws is a subtle allergic reaction. This often manifests as itchy feet, which causes dogs to lick and chew excessively in an effort to soothe the itch. This is most commonly seen with environmental or food allergies, so if your dog starts licking his paws suddenly after you change foods or start using a new grooming product, this may be a cause. If there isn’t an obvious new allergen, call your vet to schedule an appointment.
Boredom
Dogs need a lot of physical and mental exercise, and if they don’t get it, they often find unhealthy ways to entertain themselves. Sometimes this involves chewing up a couch or barking excessively, but excessive self-grooming behaviors like licking and chewing can also become a problem. If this is the reason your dog licks his paws, the solution is simple. Just be sure to spend more time exercising, training and socializing your dog.
Anxiety and Stress
Licking is an instinctively soothing behavior for dogs, so sometimes dogs that live with excessive anxiety and stress begin to do it obsessively in an effort to soothe themselves. This can lead to skin irritation and other problems. If your dog is licking his paws due to fear or anxiety, there are several options you can take. Some dogs need more routine or quiet environments to feel comfortable. Others may be so anxious that they need medication to help them stay calm.
Excessive Bathing
Everyone likes a clean, well-groomed dog, but it’s important to remember that most dogs weren’t bred to be bathed frequently. In general, most dogs should only be bathed once a month at the most. Dogs with particularly sensitive skin might need it even less frequently. You should also be sure to only use appropriate shampoos and conditioners designed for use on dogs, as human shampoos often have harsher chemicals that can irritate canine skin and cause paw licking.
