Why Your Dog Bites Its Paws: Causes, Prevention and Care

Notice if a dog keeps gnawing at its paws. This behavior can be worrying, but there is no need to panic. Below are the common reasons behind paw biting and practical steps to manage the situation successfully.

Relating to

• Trend-Setting Dog Names: Find the Perfect Name for Your Four-Legged Friend

• The shocking sacrifice of the space-conquering dog Laika

Dogs may lick and gnaw at their paws for several reasons, including allergies, skin conditions, injuries or stress. A board-certified veterinary dermatologist, Dr. Megan Painter, notes that such self-cleaning behavior is common in dogs. However, if the paw biting becomes more intense or frequent, a veterinary visit is warranted.

Everything you need to know about dog breeds: a complete guide

My dog bites his paws: Common causes

1. dermatitis or skin problems: Allergies can trigger allergic dermatitis in dogs, leading to redness, irritation, itching and inflammation. Food, fleas, dust and seasonal changes can be triggers.
2. blisters, cysts and insect bites: These conditions can cause discomfort in the paws, prompting licking and gnawing.
3. leg injuries: Burns, foreign objects in the paw, long nails or nail injuries can cause pain and paw chewing.
4. parasites or infections: Fleas, bacterial or fungal infections, ringworm, ticks and mites can make the skin itchy and irritated.
5. joint or muscle pain: Old age, arthritis or other health issues can drive paw licking to seek relief.
6. behavioral factors: Boredom, anxiety and stress can lead a dog to lick and gnaw its paws as self-soothing.

My dog licks his paws a lot, what’s wrong with him?

How to help your dog stop biting their paws?

1. Consult a veterinarian to identify the underlying cause and obtain appropriate treatment.

2. Consider veterinarian-prescribed medications to relieve symptoms, including injections or steroids for allergies and medicated sprays for fungal or bacterial infections.

3. Explore natural remedies like diluted apple cider vinegar, but always check with a veterinarian before applying them to the skin.

4. Engage a dog behavior trainer to address anxiety or stress issues.

5. Track the dog’s behavior to spot potential triggers.

6. Practice good hygiene and skin care using appropriate shampoos.

Dog leishmaniasis vaccine: everything you need to know to protect your best friend

My dog bites his paws: Prevention is better than cure

Preventive measures can make a big difference in paw health. Here are practical ideas for keeping paws in good shape and reducing the urge to bite:

1. claw protection: Consider dog-specific boots or socks, especially in extreme weather, to shield paws from cold, heat, salt and irritants. This can reduce biting caused by irritation or pain.
2. Check and clean the claws regularly: After walks, inspect paws for foreign objects, sores or irritation. Wipe with a damp cloth or unscented dog wipes to remove irritants.
3. Keep nails short: Long nails can hurt paws. Regular, proper trimming helps prevent discomfort.
4. Pad hydration: Paw pads can dry and crack. Use a dog-safe balm to moisturize and protect the pads.
5. Provides entertainment and mental stimulation: If boredom is a factor, offer interactive toys and activities to keep the mind engaged.
6. Encourage regular exercise: Sufficient physical activity helps maintain overall health and can prevent behavioral issues from excess energy.
7. Address emotional concerns: If anxiety or stress leads to paw chewing, work with a trainer or behavior specialist to address these feelings.

Is your dog at risk? Learn About Canine Pyometra: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

In short, when worry about paw biting arises, identifying the root cause and addressing it properly is key. A veterinarian can provide an accurate diagnosis and discuss treatment and prevention options. By taking proactive steps to keep paws healthy and by creating a safe environment, quality of life can improve and the urge to chew paws can be reduced.