How to Stop Dog from Licking Paws Home Remedy

 

 

 Table of Contents

 

- Introduction

- Reasons Dogs Lick Their Paws

  - Allergies

    - Food Allergies

    - Environmental Allergies

  - Anxiety and Stress

  - Boredom

  - Skin Infections

    - Bacterial Infections

    - Yeast Infections 

  - Dry, Irritated Skin

  - Foreign Object Lodged Between Toes

  - Pain and Discomfort

  - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder 

- Dangers of Excessive Paw Licking

  - Broken Skin and Wounds

  - Secondary Skin Infections

  - Swelling and Inflammation

  - Hair Loss and Damage

  - Bleeding and Lameness

  - Self-harming Behavior

- Diagnosing the Underlying Cause

  - Physical Exam and Medical History

  - Allergy Testing

  - Microscopic Skin Scrapings

  - Blood Work

  - X-Rays and Imaging

- Home Remedies to Stop Dog Paw Licking

  - Dietary Changes

    - Hypoallergenic Dog Food Trials

    - Novel Protein Diet

    - Elimination Diets

    - Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements 

  - Topical Treatments

    - Coconut Oil

    - Aloe Vera Gel

    - Apple Cider Vinegar

    - Honey

    - Calendula

    - Chamomile

    - Tea Tree Oil

  - Behavior Modification Techniques 

    - Redirecting

    - Remote Punishment

    - Reward Desired Behavior

    - Increase Physical and Mental Exercise

  - Environmental Changes

    - Washing Paws

    - Cool Compresses

    - Keeping Hair Trimmed

    - Cleaning Surfaces

    - Flea and Tick Control

  - Anxiety Relief Approaches

    - Pheromone Diffusers

    - Anxiety Wraps

    - Calming Supplements

  - Discouraging Licking 

    - Bitter Sprays

    - Sock or Bootie

    - Elizabethan Collar

  - Medications

    - Oral Antihistamines

    - Antibiotics

    - Antifungal Medication

    - Steroids

    - Immunotherapy Shots 

- When to See the Veterinarian

  - Persistent or Worsening Licking

  - Severe Skin Damage

  - Bleeding or Infection

  - Lameness 

  - No Improvement with Home Remedies

  - Acute Paw Injury or Abnormality

- Preventing Repeat Occurrences

  - Maintain Flea, Tick and Heartworm Prevention

  - Stick to Hypoallergenic Diet

  - Control Environmental Allergens

  - Maintain Skin and Coat Health

  - Provide Enrichment Toys

  - Exercise Your Dog Regularly

  - Practice Healthy Stress Relief

  - Be Vigilant About Licking Behavior

- Conclusion

- FAQs

 

 Introduction

 

Is your dog constantly licking, chewing or biting at their paws? 🐶 This repetitive behavior may start subtly, but can soon escalate into severe self-trauma. Excessive licking and chewing of the paws is worrisome because it can lead to significant skin damage. 🩹 Left untreated, it can cause complications like recurrent infections, painful wounds, mobility issues and major distress for the dog. 😣

 

But why do dogs feel compelled to lick, bite and obsess over their own paws? There are a number of potential reasons, including injuries, parasites, skin conditions or more serious behavioral disorders.⏳ Identifying the root cause is key to stopping this behavior and providing lasting relief for your dog.

 

Thankfully there are a variety of effective home remedies pet owners can try to curb excessive paw licking. 👍 From topical treatments, environmental changes, training and anxiety relief, many interventions can be done at home before turning to prescription medications or veterinary procedures.

 

This comprehensive guide covers the leading causes of obsessive paw licking, associated dangers, diagnostic tips, and home treatment remedies. Read on to learn how to tackle excessive licking and get your happy dog back on their paws! 🐾

 

 Reasons Dogs Lick Their Paws

 

To stop your dog from excessive paw licking, first you need to understand the possible triggers behind this irritating and potentially destructive behavior. By identifying the source, you can address the root problem rather than just the symptoms alone.

 

Here are the most common potential causes for chronic, intense paw licking in dogs:

 

 Allergies

 

Just like humans, dogs can develop allergic reactions on their skin from certain foods or environmental triggers. Allergies are a very common source of itchy skin and paws, prompting affected dogs to lick, chew, rub and bite at their feet incessantly.

 

 Food Allergies

 

Dogs can develop adverse reactions to certain proteins and ingredients in commercial dog foods and treats. This triggers systemic inflammation and chronic itching. Common food allergens include chicken, beef, dairy, wheat, soy and corn. But any protein or additive can cause an allergy. The paws are a prime target for allergic reactions.

 

 Environmental Allergies

 

Inhalant allergies to things like pollen, dust mites, mold and grass can also afflict dogs. These environmental allergens trigger inflammatory responses leading to itchy, irritated skin and feet. Dogs may react to anything they inhale, so pinpointing the exact allergen can be tricky. But paw licking is a frequent symptom.

 

 Anxiety and Stress

 

Licking paws to the point of self-harm may have an underlying behavioral or psychological basis in some cases. Dogs will exhibit this neurotic self-licking similar to human nail biting or hair pulling compulsions. Anxiety, boredom, stress and conflict can trigger this excessive grooming outlet. Dogs may obsessively lick hot spots raw due to chronic anxiety. Fearful events like thunderstorms or separation can also initiate an acute licking episode.  

 

 Boredom

 

Some dogs, especially those without adequate physical and mental stimulation, will lick their paws obsessively out of boredom or habit. This compulsive paw licking gives them something to occupy themselves. Without sufficient activity and enrichment, dogs will create their own sensory stimulation. This bad habit can form over time and become compulsive at its worst.

 

 Skin Infections

 

Bacterial and yeast infections on the paw pads or in-between the toes are highly prone to triggering paw licking as the infection causes significant irritation, inflammation and itching. The moist crevices between paw pads harbor microbes readily. Once a skin infection takes hold, obsessive licking is hard to resist.

 

 Bacterial Infections

 

Common bacterial skin pathogens like staph, strep and Pseudomonas can infect the superficial skin layers, often in conjunction with another injury or allergic reaction. The infection then provokes more severe tissue damage from excessive licking.

 

 Yeast Infections

 

Yeast organisms naturally occur on the skin's surface. But moisture and microabrasions enable these opportunistic fungi to multiply and take hold. Paw folds provide the perfect environment. Yeast overgrowth manifests as severely itchy, scaly, red skin driving afflicted dogs to lick, chew and bite their feet and toes incessantly.

 

 Dry, Irritated Skin

 

Without adequate moisture, dogs’ paw pads can become dry, cracked and flaky. This creates discomfort and itching. Licking the paws helps wet them and provide temporary relief. But it can become an endless self-perpetuating cycle. Dry, irritated paws result from environmental factors like hot pavement or salt exposure in winter, as well as seasonal changes.

 

 Foreign Object Lodged Between Toes

 

If a small stone, glass shard, splinter, burr or other debris gets trapped between the paw toes or pads, it irritates the delicate tissues there. Dogs will lick and chew at their feet trying to remove the object and ease their discomfort. Infections can then arise. It’s important to inspect between the toes and paw pads carefully for any embedded material. Trimmed fur facilitates this.

 

 Pain and Discomfort

 

General paw pain or discomfort from trauma, strains, arthritis or neurological issues can also prompt bouts of licking. Older dogs frequently develop arthritic joints. Chewing or licking paws may reflect pain and inflammation in the feet rather than a skin condition. Acute injuries to the pads or nails can also spark targeted licking at that spot to try relieving discomfort.

 

 Obsessive Compulsive Disorder  

 

In some cases, paw licking stems from psychological obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). The dog feels driven to lick their paws similar to human OCD tendencies. They may lick to the point of tissue damage without being able to stop this excessive grooming behavior. It is thought to arise from anxiety and stress. Dogs need behavioral training and environmental enrichment to curb OCD licking.

 

 Dangers of Excessive Paw Licking

 

Left unchecked, obsessive paw licking poses a number of risks and detrimental effects to your dog’s health and quality of life. It’s crucial to stop this harmful behavior. Here are some of the most serious consequences:

 

 Broken Skin and Wounds

 

Excessive, intense licking directly damages the skin surface, eroding the protective outer layer and causing erosion, sores, infections and bleeding. Micro-tears enable pathogenic bacteria to enter and infect the open wounds. The risk of secondary skin infection skyrockets. Severe cases can require antibiotics and surgical debridement.

 

 Secondary Skin Infections

 

As the protective skin barrier breaks down from repeated licking and chewing, it leaves the dog prone to developing secondary fungal and bacterial skin infections. Yeast and staph thrive in the warm, damaged tissue environment. Red, itchy skin perpetuates the destructive licking cycle. Secondary infections prolong recovery and suffering.

 

 Swelling and Inflammation

 

Dog saliva contains proteolytic enzymes designed to break down food particles and cellular debris. But when over-applied to paws via incessant licking, these enzymes also damage skin cells. This creates inflammation, swelling and fluid buildup in surrounding tissues. Excessive licking can essentially cause an autoimmune reaction.

 

 Hair Loss and Damage

 

The nonstop licking and chewing motion physically pulls out hair over time. Coupled with damaged skin and infection, hair follicles struggle to regrow. This can lead to permanent patchy fur loss on paws if the licking habit continues unabated. The paw pads can end up swollen and bald.

 

 Bleeding and Lameness

 

In the worse cases, licking causes skin erosion and damage deep enough to reach blood vessels and bleed. Dogs may leave bloody paw prints. Deep chewing trauma can also damage tendons, nerves and joints, leading to lameness. These issues often warrant anesthesia for deep cleaning and sutures.

 

 Self-harming Behavior

 

When paw licking stems from severe stress, anxiety or psychological OCD, it reflects a harmful mental state. Dogs caught in a cycle of obsessive paw chewing essentially self-harm. The behavior comes from inner turmoil rather than a physical skin ailment. This takes a toll on overall welfare. Expert behavioral therapy is advised.

 

 Diagnosing the Underlying Cause

 

Since paw licking arises from many potential underlying causes, getting a definitive diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Diagnostic steps may include:

 

 Physical Exam and Medical History

 

Veterinarians will thoroughly examine the paws, inspecting between toes and pads for abnormalities. They will evaluate the skin and coat condition. Your dog’s health background provides insight on potential triggers like allergies or anxiety. Your observations of their licking behaviors also helps determine patterns.

 

 Allergy Testing

 

If allergies are suspected, vets can perform intradermal skin testing. Small amounts of common allergens are injected into your dog’s skin to check for localized reactions indicating sensitivities. Blood tests are another option to identify elevated allergy antibodies. Elimination diet trials are also useful.

 

 Microscopic Skin Scrapings

 

Examining skin cell samples under the microscope can reveal bacteria and yeast microorganisms proliferating on your dog’s paws. Cultures swabbed from sores determine the organism to target treatment.

 

 Blood Work

 

Bloodwork provides counts of infection-fighting white blood cells and checks organ function. Elevated white cell counts signal infection or inflammatory conditions. Screening kidney and liver values ensures suitability of certain medications. 

 

 X-Rays and Imaging

 

For acute or chronic lameness, vets may take radiographs to assess bone, joint and nerve structures in the paw. Issues like edema, fractures, dislocations, arthritic changes or foreign bodies can be detected with imaging techniques.

 

Once the underlying trigger is determined, specific treatments can be initiated to provide lasting relief and curb painful licking behaviors.

 

 Home Remedies to Stop Dog Paw Licking

 

Medical conditions like infections, pain and severe allergies often require prescription veterinary treatment. But there are a number of helpful home remedies pet owners can try to soothe irritated paws and control excessive licking urges.

 

 Dietary Changes

 

If food allergies are contributing to paw licking, dietary adjustments can help reduce inflammation and skin irritation.

 

 Hypoallergenic Dog Food Trials

 

Try switching to a veterinary prescription dog food made with hydrolyzed proteins that are essentially pre-digested. These novel protein sources avoid common allergens. Limited ingredient diets using uncommon proteins like rabbit, duck or kangaroo are another option to trial.

 

 Novel Protein Diet

 

Working with your vet, transition your dog onto a homemade diet with a novel protein like bison, venison or fish they haven’t eaten before. This eliminates suspected allergens. Then reintroduce ingredients slowly to detect the culprit.

 

 Elimination Diets

 

Remove common trigger ingredients like chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy and dairy from your dog’s diet, then gradually reintroduce them one at a time while monitoring for reactions. An elimination diet pinpoints the specific allergen.

 

 Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements 

 

Omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acid supplements reduce inflammatory skin reactions. They help heal the skin barrier. Look for EPA and DHA sourced from fish, algae or plants. Krill oil, salmon oil and coconut oil supply beneficial omega fatty acids. Consult your vet on the appropriate dosage.

 

 Topical Treatments

 

Applying natural remedies directly onto your dog’s paws can help relieve discomfort while also deterring licking. Always monitor closely for any adverse reactions.

 

 Coconut Oil

 

The moisturizing medium chain triglycerides in coconut oil help heal cracked paw pads and soothe skin. Lauric acid has anti-inflammatory effects. Ensure your dog isn’t coconut intolerant. Apply a thin layer 2-3 times daily.

 

 Aloe Vera Gel

 

The mucopolysaccharides in aloe vera gel help curb inflammation and enhance wound healing. Look for pure organic aloe gel. Apply 2-3 times daily after washing paws. Discontinue if irritation occurs.

 

 Apple Cider Vinegar

 

Diluted apple cider vinegar has antibacterial, antifungal and anti-itch properties to fight paw infections. Mix 1 part ACV to 1 part water and wipe paws with a cotton ball soaked in it. Rinse after 5 minutes. Do this 1-2 times daily.

 

 Honey

 

Manuka honey in particular has potent antibacterial traits to prevent infection in damaged paw tissue. Ensure the honey is medical-grade. Apply a thin coat onto clean paws 2-3 times daily. Licking honey also deters dogs from licking paws.

 

 Calendula

 

Calendula flower extract has anti-inflammatory, soothing, antiseptic and wound healing abilities. Look for gels or creams with pure calendula. Carefully rub onto paws as needed. Start with one application daily.

 

 Chamomile

 

The flavonoids in chamomile provide anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, antiseptic and relaxing benefits. Use chamomile tea bags, gel or extract. Apply diluted versions twice daily after washing paws.

 

 Tea Tree Oil

 

Highly dilute tea tree oil can help combat yeast and bacterial overgrowth between paw pads. Mix only 2-3 drops of oil into 1 ounce carrier oil like coconut or olive oil, then apply to paws. Do not use at full concentration.

 

 Behavior Modification Techniques 

 

For dogs licking out of boredom, anxiety or stress, behavior training helps curb the obsessive habit. Try these strategies:

 

 Redirecting

 

Interrupt paw licking by redirecting your dog's attention onto a toy, treat puzzle or chew. Reward them for disengaging. Redirect the oral fixation urge onto productive activities. Practice this consistently.

 

 Remote Punishment 

 

When your dog starts licking, immediately make a loud noise with a whistle, shake a can, or use a pet training clicker. The surprise should briefly stop them. Then redirect to a toy and praise. Be ready to repeat this pattern frequently.

 

 Reward Desired Behavior

 

Watch for any moment your dog is calmly resting without licking. Immediately reward that with praise, a treat or belly rub. Reinforce the behavior you want to see more of. This shapes positive habits with consistency.

 

 Increase Physical and Mental Exercise 

 

Prevent boredom licking by providing plenty of aerobic exercise, outdoor playtime, games of fetch and interactive toy puzzles daily to meet your dog’s needs. A tired dog is less prone to obsessive habits. Mental stimulation is equally important. 

 

 Environmental Changes

 

Modifying aspects of your home and lifestyle can reduce environmental triggers of paw licking.

 

 Washing Paws

 

Gently wipe your dog's paws with a damp cloth or healing wipes like chlorhexidine when they come inside. This removes pollen, grass, salt, dirt and other potential allergens or irritants that could be provoking licking behaviors. Use a dog-safe moisturizing cleanser. Pat dry thoroughly, especially between the toes.

 

 Cool Compresses 

 

To relieve hot, sore paws, apply a cool compress for 5-10 minutes as needed. Wet a clean cloth with cool water or chilled chamomile tea. Make sure to remove any dampness between toes after. The temperature helps reduce inflammation.

 

 Keeping Hair Trimmed

 

Use rounded tip scissors to carefully trim excess fur growing between your dog’s paw pads. This removes debris and allergens trapped within the hairs. It also allows you to spot licking-induced wounds easier for treatment. Avoid cutting into the quick of the nails.

 

 Cleaning Surfaces

 

Vacuum and mop hard floors regularly to remove allergens and microbes. Wash bedding frequently. Consider HEPA air filters to capture airborne particulates. Usegentle, hypoallergenic cleansers. Disinfect surfaces with dilute vinegar or tea tree oil solutions.

 

 Flea and Tick Control

 

Use prescription flea/tick preventives like Revolution religiously on your dog. Treat your home and yard too. Flea bites around paws instigate licking and chewing. Eliminate these external parasites completely. Also guard against environmental mites.

 

 Anxiety Relief Approaches

 

For stress or anxiety-driven licking habits try:

 

- Pheromone diffusers/sprays with comforting scents

- Thundershirts/anxiety wraps to provide calming pressure

- Prescription sedatives for high-anxiety situations

- Calming nutritional supplements with L-theanine or hemp

 

 Discouraging Licking

 

You can employ physical barriers to prevent your dog from being able to reach their paws. Use these with care:

 

 Bitter Sprays

 

Apply special no-chew bitter sprays lightly around your dog’s paws. The unpleasant taste deters licking. Monitor for adverse effects. Elizabethan collar may be needed to allow it to dry. Reapply 2-3 times daily.

 

 Sock or Bootie

 

Get your dog used to wearing a breathable cotton sock over one hind paw when you are around to supervise. This blocks access to lick the paws but monitor for rubbing. Only leave on for short periods and remove if agitated.

 

 Elizabethan Collar 

 

The “cone of shame” prevents dogs from physically being able to lick their paws. But they can still rub paws on surfaces, so combine with other remedies too. Only use under supervision to avoid collar injuries.

 

 Medications

 

For recalcitrant cases, prescription oral or topical medicines help resolve underlying issues driving obsessive paw licking.

 

 Oral Antihistamines

 

Veterinary antihistamines like hydroxyzine, chlorpheniramine or cetirizine can provide relief from allergies and skin itching. Use short-term alongside other treatments.

 

 Antibiotics 

 

If a bacterial infection is found between the toes or causing open sores, oral antibiotics like cephalexin will be prescribed. Typically a 3 week course clears infection. Apply topical antibiotics simultaneously.

 

 Antifungal Medication

 

For diagnosed yeast overgrowth between the paws, antifungals like ketoconazole and itraconazole treat infection. Combining oral and topical allows deeper penetration. Strictly follow directions.

 

 Steroids

 

To interrupt the itchiness-licking cycle, short term oral steroids like prednisone reduce inflammation. Tapering doses are needed to avoid side effects. Never give over-the-counter human steroids.

 

 Immunotherapy Shots

 

For severe environmental allergies, desensitization provides relief. Customized allergy serum shots expose the dog to small amounts of triggers to reprogram their immune response. A commitment of 3-5 years is often required.

 

 When to See the Veterinarian

 

Home remedies can resolve mild to moderate cases of paw licking. But prompt veterinary attention is required in certain situations:

 

 Persistent or Worsening Licking

 

If licking becomes a consistent, chronic problem or shows no improvement with home treatments, veterinary guidance is warranted. The underlying cause likely requires prescription therapy.

 

 Severe Skin Damage

 

Once licking leads to significant wounds, bleeding, swelling or hair loss on the paws, a veterinarian should evaluate it. This level of trauma necessitates medication to allow healing.

 

 Bleeding or Infection

 

If licking causes bleeding, visible infection or abscess, seek veterinary care immediately. These warrant systemic antibiotics plus topical antimicrobial care. Keep the dog from licking until healed.

 

 Lameness

 

If your dog is limping or reluctant to bear weight on a foot with licking, they require prompt veterinary assessment for injury or arthritis. X-rays may be needed.

 

 No Improvement with Home Remedies

 

If diligent home treatment efforts yield no improvement in licking habits, don’t delay—consult your vet. Trial prescription interventions, allergy testing and behavioral therapy.

 

 Acute Paw Injury or Abnormality

 

Sudden onset head shaking, whimpering, intense licking, visible trauma or abnormal growths on the paw pads justify an urgent veterinary visit to diagnose and treat the underlying issue. Don't wait on these.

 

While the occasional lick of a dirty paw is no concern, chronic obsessive licking risks significant complications. Partner with your veterinarian to protect your dog’s paw health.

 

 Preventing Repeat Occurrences

 

Once you’ve successfully curbed your dog’s licking habit, take these proactive steps to minimize recurrences down the road:

 

 Maintain Flea, Tick and Heartworm Prevention

 

Keep administering prescription flea/tick/heartworm preventives year-round. Stay vigilant for any signs of reinfestation. Control these parasites in your home and backyard as well. Reduce external skin irritants.

 

 Stick to Hypoallergenic Diet

 

If food allergies are the culprit, stick with the vet-prescribed hypoallergenic diet long term. Avoid food trials that could retrigger reactions. For environmental allergies, give omega supplements.

 

 Control Environmental Allergens

 

Use HEPA air filters at home. Vacuum and dust with allergen-trapping cloths. Limit exposure to humid, moldy areas. Rinse pollen off dog after going outside. Keep grass neatly cut.

 

 Maintain Skin and Coat Health 

 

Bathe your dog monthly with moisturizing, hypoallergenic shampoo. Brush their coat weekly. Use humidifiers to add moisture in dry air environments. Massage paws with coconut oil. Trim fur between paw pads.

 

 Provide Enrichment Toys

 

Make sure your dog has puzzle toys, chews, stuffed Kongs and opportunities to dig or forage to satisfy natural behaviors. Rotating novelty prevents boredom. This prevents repetitive habits from developing.

 

 Exercise Your Dog Regularly

 

Ensure your dog gets sufficient vigorous aerobic exercise like running and swimming. Increase outdoor adventures and games of fetch. Take obedience training classes for mental stimulation too. A tired dog is less anxious and obsessive.

 

 Practice Healthy Stress Relief

 

If stress underlies the licking, implement lifestyle changes to promote relaxation. Provide a sanctuary space. Use pheromones and calming music or wraps. Teach settle behaviors. Limit exposure to stressors that trigger your dog. Manage it early.

 

 Be Vigilant About Licking Behavior

 

Watch closely for any return to excessive licking habits. Carry deterrent sprays when outdoors. Distract and redirect at first signs backsliding. Don’t let the behavior become ingrained again. Stay one step ahead.

 

 Conclusion

 

While occasional paw licking during grooming is perfectly normal, excessive, obsessive licking stems from an underlying problem. By identifying the root cause like allergies, anxiety, skin infections or irritation and taking steps to resolve it, you can curb this detrimental habit. Home remedies provide relief in milder cases. But veterinary guidance is key for severe, persistent paw licking and chewing. Addressing both the skin ailment and behavioral components leads to the best outcome for your dog’s long-term health and happiness. With your help, they can successfully leave those paws alone and get back to being their active, playful selves once again!

 

 FAQs

 

Q: Why does my dog keep licking and biting his paws?

 

A: Excessive paw licking and biting likely indicates an irritation or discomfort in the paws. Common causes include allergies, skin infections, external parasites like fleas/ticks, dry cracked skin, trauma from stepping on something sharp, arthritis pain, boredom/stress, or obsessive compulsive disorder. Identifying and addressing the underlying trigger is key to stopping this behavior. Vets can help diagnose the source through allergy testing, skin scrapings, bloodwork and physical exams. Effective home remedies include soothing the skin, meeting behavior needs, and deterrents.

 

Q: How do I get my dog to stop licking his paws raw?

 

A: Once paw licking leads to raw, damaged skin, it's important to break the cycle. Try using a deterrent bitter spray on the paws to discourage licking. Also use a cone collar or sock paws when you can't monitor your dog. Apply antibiotic ointment and wrap paws to allow healing. Identify and address the cause, like allergies. Increase playtime and distraction. Praise and reward non-licking behavior. If wounds persist, seek veterinary care for medications to control infection and inflammation so the paws can heal.

 

Q: What home remedy works best for dog licking paws?

 

A: The most effective home remedies target the root cause of excessive licking. For allergies, dietary changes and omega-3s help reduce inflammation. For anxiety/OCD, behavior modification and more exercise can help. For infections, apply antimicrobial topicals like diluted apple cider vinegar. For dry skin, coconut oil soothes and heals. For pain, cool compresses and pet-safe pain gels offer relief. Determine the cause and choose a tailored remedy.

 

Q: How can I stop my dog from licking his paws at night?

 

A: Here are some tips to curb nighttime paw licking: Rub coconut oil on paws before bedtime to moisturize. Use a light sock or wrap to prevent licking. Provide plenty of challenging toys for entertainment. Exercise your dog before bed to tire them out. Limit access to areas that trigger licking. Use a pheromone diffuser to reduce anxiety. Give an anti-histamine if allergies are the cause. Ignore minor licking so you don’t reinforce the behavior. Reward with a treat when they stop licking and settle down.

 

Q: Why does my dog keep licking the hair off his paws?

 

A: Excessive licking that leads to hair loss on the paws is abnormal. It usually indicates an underlying irritation, inflammation or infection causing discomfort. Paw licking due to allergies, fungal/bacterial infections, external parasites, joint pain, chemical irritation, foreign material stuck in the paws, boredom, stress or compulsion can all result in hair loss if persistent. It's important to identify and treat the root cause to stop the behavior and allow fur regrowth.

 

Q: How can I tell if my dog is licking his paws from allergies?

 

A: Clues your dog's paw licking is allergy-related include: licking right after exposure to allergens, seasonal flares like spring and fall, red rashes or irritation between toes, accompanied ear infections or skin irritation, chronically reoccurring infections, improvement with allergy medications. Food allergies may cause rear leg licking while environmental allergies typically affect front paws. Allergy testing can help confirm.

 

Q: What home remedy will soothe my dog's raw, irritated paws?

 

A: To soothe sore, raw paws from excessive licking try these remedies: Cleanse with salt water or diluted apple cider vinegar wash. Apply coconut oil to moisturize and reduce inflammation. Lightly wrap paws in gauze with antibiotic ointment. Chill irritated paws with cool compress or foot soak. Avoid harsh chemicals. Keep paws dry. Use bitter spray deterrent on bandages. Limit activity to allow healing. Get veterinary care if no improvement.

 

Q: Is coconut oil safe for dogs to lick off their paws?

 

A: Yes, coconut oil is non-toxic for dogs to ingest by licking their paws, provided they don't have a coconut allergy. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, a proven antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal agent, so licking small amounts can help combat paw infections. Just avoid excessive intake. Check with your vet about the appropriate dosage for your dog’s size. Massaging paws with coconut oil moisturizes dry, cracked skin while discouraging infection-causing bacteria and yeast overgrowth.

 

Q: Can paw licking be a sign of anxiety in dogs?

 

A: Yes, excessive paw licking can sometimes stem from anxiety, stress or compulsion, especially when no other medical cause is found. Dogs may lick and chew paws to self-soothe. Look for other signs like restlessness, whining, trembling, hiding, panting or aggression. Try calming techniques like exercise, training, anxiety wraps, pheromones, CBD oil, etc. If related to OCD, behavior modification helps reduce the compulsion to lick. Consult your vet to ensure no underlying medical issue.

 

Q: Is it OK to put socks on my dog to prevent licking?

 

A: Putting socks or booties on your dog's paws is an effective temporary way to prevent licking and allow irritated paws to heal. Choose breathable, flexible fabric. Monitor for rubbing and properly size socks so they don't constrict circulation. Remove socks once moist. Take supervision precautions since some dogs may try to remove socks. Only leave on for short periods and never when unsupervised. It’s a short-term solution but helps break the licking habit while resolving the underlying cause.