Dog Licking Paws: Expert Guide To Causes, Prevention, And Care
Learn why dogs lick and chew their paws, what’s normal, when to worry, and how to help keep your pup’s paws healthy and happy.
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Why Do Dogs Lick and Chew Their Paws?
Paw licking and chewing in dogs is a common behavior, but it’s one that can puzzle and worry pet owners. While occasional self-grooming is perfectly natural, persistent or excessive licking and chewing can be a sign of an underlying issue. Understanding the causes, how to tell normal from abnormal behavior, and what steps to take can help you protect your dog’s comfort and health.
What Constitutes Normal Paw Licking and Chewing?
Dogs use their mouths to groom themselves, much like cats. It’s normal to see your dog licking or nibbling their paws to clean off mud, grass, or small debris from walks. Sometimes, they may chew at their nails if they’ve become too long or try to remove something stuck between their toes. This behavior is typically brief and doesn’t cause any discomfort or visible injury.
- Light, occasional licking after time outdoors
- Brief chewing to dislodge objects or trim nails
- No signs of limping, whimpering, or skin changes
If your dog stops the behavior easily when distracted and shows no further signs of irritation, this is almost always normal self-care.
When Is Paw Licking and Chewing a Problem?
Excessive
References
- https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/excessive-licking-chewing-and-grooming-dogs
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/why-does-my-dog-lick-chew-paws/
- https://www.zoetispetcare.com/blog/article/dogs-licking-chewing-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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