Why Do Dogs Chew Their Paws? Common Causes and Solutions for Concerned Pet Owners
Regular checks and targeted care soothe itching, prevent infections, and improve comfort.
Why Do Dogs Chew Their Paws?
If you’ve noticed your dog chewing or licking their paws more than usual, you’re not alone. While some paw chewing is a natural part of canine grooming, persistent or excessive attention to the paws can signal that something is amiss. For pet owners, understanding the causes of paw chewing can help prevent discomfort and more serious health concerns for their furry companions.
Is It Normal for Dogs to Chew Their Paws?
Occasional paw licking or chewing is part of your dog’s grooming routine. Dogs use their mouths much like we use our hands—to clean themselves, remove minor irritants, or explore their environment. However, when chewing or licking becomes frequent or obsessive, it’s often a sign that something is causing irritation or discomfort that warrants attention.
- Normal: Brief licking after a walk to clean off dirt or debris.
- Cause for concern: Persistent chewing, redness, swelling, sores, or limping.
Common Causes of Paw Chewing in Dogs
There are several factors—ranging from medical to behavioral—that can drive dogs to chew their paws. Identifying the underlying cause is essential to providing effective relief and preventing complications.
1. Allergies
Allergies are a leading cause of paw chewing in dogs. These can be triggered by a variety of factors:
- Environmental allergens: Pollen, mold, dust mites, or chemicals from grass and cleaning products that come in contact with your dog’s skin.
- Food allergies: Proteins such as beef, chicken, dairy, and grains like wheat and soy may trigger an allergic response that leads to itchy, inflamed skin and persistent paw chewing.
- Flea bite allergy: Flea saliva is extremely irritating to some dogs and can cause severe itching and chewing around the paws and other parts of the body.
Symptoms to watch for include redness, swelling, itchiness elsewhere (ears, belly, underarms), frequent scratching, or chronic ear infections.
2. Parasites
External parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites can result in intense itching and discomfort. Sarcoptic mange, caused by certain mites, is notorious for causing severe irritation, including on the paws. Chewing is your dog’s way of attempting to relieve the itch or remove the irritant.
3. Infections
Paw chewing can also indicate an underlying bacterial or fungal infection, especially if you notice:
- Red, inflamed, or swollen paws
- Discharge or foul odor (sometimes described as a yeasty smell)
- Bald spots or crusting between the toes
Warm, moist environments like the skin between the toes are prime spots for these infections to thrive. Untreated infections can cause pain and even spread elsewhere in the body.
4. Dry Skin and Environmental Irritants
Exposure to de-icing salts, harsh chemicals, rough terrains, or cold, dry weather can dry out the pads of your dog’s paws. This dryness leads to cracking, peeling, and itchiness, prompting excessive licking or chewing as your dog tries to soothe the discomfort.
5. Injuries and Foreign Objects
Cuts, scrapes, burns, splinters, or insect bites can cause sudden and targeted paw attention. Dogs may focus on a particular paw or spot to relieve pain or remove small objects lodged in the paw pad or between the toes.
- Common sources include stepping on glass, thorns, hot pavement, or salt during winter walks.
- Look for limping, sensitivity to touch, or visible wounds.
6. Nail or Grooming Issues
Broken, ingrown, or overgrown nails can cause significant discomfort and drive dogs to chew their paws. Matted fur between the toes is another culprit—especially in long-haired breeds—since it can trap debris and cause skin irritation.
7. Anxiety, Stress, and Boredom
Dogs also chew their paws as a response to psychological issues. Much like humans biting their nails, excessive licking or chewing can result from:
- Separation anxiety
- Generalized stress
- Lack of mental or physical stimulation
This compulsive behavior is self-soothing but can quickly become a harmful habit if not addressed.
8. Hormonal and Health Disorders
Less commonly, hormonal imbalances (such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease), autoimmune disorders, or chronic illnesses like arthritis can prompt paw licking and chewing.
- If the behavior coincides with other symptoms—hair loss, significant weight changes, or general lethargy—a comprehensive veterinary evaluation is warranted.
Symptoms That Warrant Immediate Attention
While the occasional self-grooming session is not unusual, persistent or severe paw chewing may result in secondary problems like infections, swelling, or wounds. Call your veterinarian if you notice:
- Redness, swelling, or hot, inflamed paws
- Open sores or bleeding
- Unpleasant odor
- Pus or crusting
- Changes in how your dog walks or stands
- Unexplained hair loss or bald spots
- Signs of pain or limping
Paw problems can escalate quickly; professional guidance is always recommended if you spot these symptoms.
What To Do if Your Dog is Chewing Their Paws
Addressing paw chewing starts with identifying and treating the root causes. Here’s a step-by-step approach for pet owners:
- Inspect the paws daily: Look for wounds, debris, cracks, or swelling after walks or play sessions.
- Keep paws clean and dry: Wipe your dog’s feet after outdoor activities, especially if they’ve walked on chemically treated or salty surfaces.
- Use paw balms: Moisturize paw pads with pet-safe products to prevent dryness and cracking.
- Trim nails regularly: Prevent discomfort caused by overgrown or ingrown nails.
- Feed a quality diet: Nutrient-rich, balanced diets support overall skin and coat health, reducing allergic reactions and dryness.
- Limit exposure to allergens: During high-pollen times, wipe your dog’s body and paws after walks. Use hypoallergenic cleaning agents indoors.
- Provide enrichment: Interactive toys, daily walks, training sessions, and playtime help reduce boredom and anxiety.
- Monitor for signs of infection: If you spot redness, swelling, or foul odor, consult your vet for treatment options.
- Seek medical attention: Persistent, unexplained, or worsening symptoms always warrant a professional evaluation to rule out medical issues.
Prevention: Keeping Your Dog’s Paws Healthy
Proactive care is key to preventing paw chewing and keeping those pads healthy and resilient year-round.
- Regular Paw Checks: Incorporate a quick paw inspection into your grooming routine to catch issues early.
- Bathe with care: Avoid over-bathing (which strips natural oils), and use gentle, dog-specific shampoos.
- Moisturize as needed: Apply balms or coconut oil to prevent cracks during dry weather.
- Avoid harsh surfaces: Steer clear of hot pavement in summer and salty or icy roads in winter. Use booties for extra protection.
- Prompt parasite prevention: Use veterinarian-recommended flea and tick prevention products.
- Engage your dog: Regular mental and physical exercise reduces anxiety and compulsive behaviors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I know if my dog’s paw chewing is a sign of allergies?
A: Persistent chewing, itchiness, redness, recurring skin or ear infections, and scratching in other areas are common signs. Your vet may recommend elimination diets or allergy testing to diagnose and treat the specific allergy source.
Q: Can I stop my dog from chewing their paws at home?
A: Some at-home steps—like rinsing paws, applying paw balm, providing enrichment, and removing allergens—can help. However, if symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by swelling, sores, or odor, see your veterinarian for diagnosis and professional treatment.
Q: Is it safe to use human products like lotion on my dog’s paws?
A: No, stick to dog-specific paw balms. Many human lotions contain ingredients toxic to dogs, especially if ingested. Consult your vet for recommended pet-safe moisturizing products.
Q: Do certain breeds chew their paws more than others?
A: Breeds with allergies (such as Bulldogs, Retrievers, and Terriers) or long, hairy feet (like Cocker Spaniels) may be more prone to paw chewing. However, the behavior can happen in any breed and age group.
Q: When should I take my dog to the vet for paw chewing?
A: If the behavior is frequent, involves only one paw, or is accompanied by pain, swelling, open wounds, limping, or generalized illness, consult your veterinarian promptly. Early intervention helps prevent secondary infections and discomfort.
Table: Quick Reference – Causes and Solutions for Paw Chewing
| Cause | Symptoms | Home Care | Veterinary Care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allergies | Redness, itching, ear infections, hair loss | Elimination diet, hypoallergenic wipes | Allergy testing, medication |
| Parasites | Itching, hair loss, irritation | Pest prevention products | Prescription anti-parasitics |
| Infection | Swelling, odor, discharge | Keep paws clean, monitor | Antibiotics, antifungals |
| Dry Skin | Cracks, peeling, licking | Paw balm, avoid irritants | Rule out medical causes |
| Injury | Limping, visible wound | Remove debris, bandage minor cuts | Stitches, pain medication |
| Anxiety/Boredom | Persistent licking, restlessness | Toys, more exercise, enrichment | Behavioral therapy, medications |
When to Seek Professional Help
If your home remedies aren’t working, or your dog’s symptoms are worsening, it’s time to contact your veterinarian. Early intervention not only eases your dog’s discomfort but also prevents more serious complications, such as deep infections, chronic wounds, and the development of compulsive behaviors.
- Document the frequency and duration of chewing to share with your vet.
- Note any recent changes in environment, diet, or routine.
- Take photos of the paws to help track progress or worsening symptoms.
Remember, your dog’s paws work hard every day. With regular care and prompt intervention for any concerns, you can help keep them pain-free and ready for every adventure!
References
- https://brownvethospital.com/blog/dog-paw-chewing/
- https://blog.myollie.com/dog-chewing-paws/
- https://thevets.com/resources/pet-health-care/dog-chewing-paws/
- https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/why-do-dogs-lick-chew-paws
- https://www.rover.com/blog/why-dogs-chew-paws/
- https://mypetnutritionist.com/post/7-reasons-why-my-dog-is-biting-his-paws/
- https://www.airvet.com/blog/why-dogs-chew-their-paws
- https://lavengel.com/pages/skin-issues-paw-licking
- https://thepetlabco.com/learn/dog/health-wellness/7-reasons-your-dog-is-chewing-their-paws
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