Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws?

The truth is, there are many potential reasons—some innocent, others more serious. From allergies and injuries to stress or behavioral issues, the underlying cause of paw licking can vary dramatically. If left unchecked, this habit can spiral into painful infections and other health problems. Let’s break down what’s normal, what’s not, and what you can do about it. Shop your best dogs supplies from bobotails Follow us on Facebook: @BoboTails-Official

Is Occasional Licking Normal?

Yes, absolutely. Dogs use their tongues to clean themselves, especially their paws after being outside. Think of it like a post-walk freshen-up.

They may remove bits of dirt, grass, or tiny pebbles caught between their toes. This kind of self-grooming is perfectly natural and not a cause for alarm.

Dogs might also lick their paws to soothe minor irritations or just as a way to relax. So don’t panic if your pup licks a bit here and there—especially after playing outside or walking on wet or dusty surfaces.

When Does It Become a Problem?

Once paw licking starts affecting your dog’s quality of life—or worse, causing damage—it’s time to take action. Chronic licking can wear away fur, irritate the skin, and even break it open, leading to secondary infections. Some dogs even develop what’s known as a “lick granuloma”—a painful, raised sore that results from repeated licking of the same spot.

Look for these red flags:

• Licking is frequent, prolonged, and focused.
• Visible hair loss or bald spots exist.
• The skin looks red, inflamed, or has open sores.
• You notice a musty or foul odor (often a sign of yeast or bacterial infection).
• Your dog flinches, pulls away, or limps.

At this point, you’re no longer dealing with a harmless habit—it’s likely a symptom of an underlying issue.

Minor Injuries and Paw Trauma

Let’s start with one of the simplest explanations: your dog may have hurt themselves. A dog’s paws are sensitive because they’re always touching the ground, which can be too hot, cold, sharp, or rough. They might step on:

• Broken glass
• Sharp stones
• Thorns or burrs
• Hot pavement in the summer
• Frozen ground or salted sidewalks in winter

All these can cause cuts, scrapes, burns, or blisters. Naturally, your dog will try to soothe the pain or irritation by licking the affected area.

Skin Allergies and Environmental Triggers

Environmental allergies are extremely common in dogs. Their immune systems can react to many things around them.

• Grass and pollen
• Mold spores
• Dust mites
• Household cleaning products
• Fertilizers or pesticides on lawns

These allergens can cause the skin—especially the sensitive skin on their paws—to become itchy, red, or inflamed. And what’s a dog to do when they’re itchy?

Food Allergies and Sensitivities

If your dog’s paw licking started shortly after switching foods or introducing new treats, food could be the issue. A vet-supervised elimination diet or food trial is typically used to identify the problem ingredient. Once removed, many dogs show dramatic improvement.

Remember: just because a food is marketed as “hypoallergenic” doesn’t mean it’s safe for every dog. Always work with your vet before making major diet changes.

Parasites and Bug Bites

Tiny invaders like fleas, mites, and ticks can create a world of discomfort for your dog. They often settle in warm, hidden areas—like in between paw pads—and their bites can cause intense itching. Some mites, like the ones that cause mange, dig into a dog’s skin. This can cause itching, scabs, and hair loss, so dogs often lick to soothe the irritation.

Ticks can also attach between the toes, causing both pain and infection. If you live in an area with tall grasses or take your dog on hikes, always inspect them thoroughly afterward.

Even insect bites (like from ants, bees, or spiders) can lead to temporary but intense paw licking. In more severe cases, swelling or allergic reactions may occur and require immediate attention.

Infections: Yeast, Bacteria, and Fungi

When dogs lick their paws a lot—especially if there’s a small cut or allergy—moisture can collect between their paw pads. This makes it easy for infections to grow. Bacterial and yeast infections are particularly common and incredibly uncomfortable for your pup.

Yeast thrives in damp, dark, warm environments. The space between your dog’s toes is like a five-star hotel for these fungal spores. If the yeast takes hold, you’ll notice a few unmistakable signs:

• Red, inflamed skin
• Musty or sweet odor
• Brown or reddish discoloration of the fur
• Persistent, targeted licking and chewing

Bacterial infections often occur when the skin is broken or irritated. Licking further damages the area, allowing bacteria to invade. This results in swelling, pus, crusty sores, and significant pain.

Treatment for these infections usually involves medicated shampoos, antifungal or antibacterial creams, or oral medications prescribed by your vet. You should treat the problem early, or the infection can get worse and make your dog feel sicker.

Medical Conditions Linked to Paw Licking

Arthritis and Joint Pain

For older dogs, licking may not be about the paw itself but what’s beneath it—aching joints. Arthritis, particularly in the legs or toes, can cause chronic discomfort. Your dog may instinctively lick the paw associated with the affected joint in an effort to self-soothe.

Similar to how humans rub sore muscles or joints. In dogs, this often means they lick a lot—especially after exercise or in cold weather when their joints get stiff.

Unlike infections or allergies, you might not see external signs like redness or swelling. Instead, observe your dog’s behavior:

• Are they limping slightly?
• Do they hesitate to go up stairs or jump on furniture?
• Are they licking one specific paw frequently?

These could all indicate joint discomfort. If your vet thinks your dog has arthritis, they can take X-rays. Then, they might give medicine or exercises to help your dog’s pain.

Growths, Tumors, and Foreign Bodies

Sometimes the issue is hidden beneath the surface—literally. Dogs can develop growths such as cysts, warts, or tumors between their toes or under their paw pads. These masses may not be immediately visible unless you examine the paw closely or feel around for unusual lumps.

Your dog might notice the discomfort long before you do and begin licking obsessively. Growths can press on nerves, become infected, or simply feel strange to the dog. If you spot a lump, don’t panic—many growths are benign—but do get it checked out.

In addition to tumors, foreign objects like splinters, foxtails, or burrs can burrow into the paw tissue. These are notoriously irritating and hard to remove. Left untreated, they can cause abscesses or pus-filled sores that demand veterinary care.

Always check carefully if your dog keeps licking one spot, and see your vet if you notice anything unusual.

Neurological and Endocrine Disorders

This might astonish some pet owners, but underlying internal medical conditions can also trigger paw licking. Conditions like hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) can lead to skin issues that make your dog itch or feel uncomfortable.

Dogs with endocrine problems often develop:

• Dry, flaky skin
• Hair thinning or bald patches
• Slow healing wounds
• Cold intolerance or lethargy

Another less obvious reason could be a neurological issue, such as peripheral neuropathy. This condition can cause tingling or numbness, like ‘pins and needles,’ which makes dogs lick their paws to feel better.

These issues can be tricky to diagnose without bloodwork and comprehensive exams. If your dog’s licking seems unexplained by surface-level causes, your vet might explore these deeper health possibilities.

Behavioral Causes of Excessive Paw Licking

Boredom and Lack of Stimulation

Let’s be honest: a bored dog is a mischief-making dog. Dogs need daily exercise and mental activities. Without them, they might lick their paws a lot to keep themselves busy.

This kind of licking is especially common in dogs that are:

• Left alone for long periods
• Not getting enough walks or playtime
• Lacking interactive toys or training
• Confined to small spaces for too long

Dogs aren’t so different from us. Imagine sitting around all day with nothing to do—you might fidget, tap your foot, or bite your nails. That’s how paw licking can become a repetitive outlet for a dog’s pent-up energy or frustration.

The fix? Create a more engaging environment. Add puzzle toys, schedule interactive playtime, and give them safe, stimulating activities when you’re not around. Enrichment isn’t a luxury—it’s essential for a well-balanced pup.

Anxiety and Stress-Driven Habits

Just like some people bite their nails when they’re nervous, dogs often lick their paws when they’re stressed or anxious. A self-soothing behavior serves as a way to release emotional tension. Dogs may resort to licking when they’re dealing with:

• Separation anxiety
• Loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms
• Changes in the household (new baby, moving, etc.)
• Lack of routine or consistency

If your dog licks their paws when something happens—like when you leave or during storms—it’s likely because of anxiety. These dogs often exhibit other anxious behaviors too, like pacing, whining, or hiding.

In such cases, it’s important to address both the behavior and the cause. Calming supplements, pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, and even prescribed medications can help. Better yet, combine these with a structured routine and confidence-building training exercises.

Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors in Dogs

Sometimes, dogs lick their paws so much that it becomes a habit they can’t stop, even if it hurts. This is called canine compulsive disorder (CCD) and happens when a dog is stressed or has mental health issues for a long time.

Dogs with CCD may lick to the point of self-injury and struggle to stop even with distractions or commands. Lick granulomas—a raw, infected patch of skin—are a common result.

Treating OCD in dogs requires a holistic approach:

• Behavioral therapy with a certified trainer or behaviorist
• Veterinary support with anti-anxiety or antidepressant medications
• Consistent routines, enrichment, and structured play

Don’t try to handle this alone. Dogs suffering from OCD need professional help, just like humans do.

What to Do When Your Dog Keeps Licking Their Paws

Inspecting the Paws at Home

If your dog is licking their paws more than usual, don’t panic. First, calmly and thoroughly inspect their paws. It might seem like a small thing, but getting a close look can reveal a lot. Here's how to go about it:

1. Get into good lighting: You’ll need to see everything clearly—especially between the toes.
2. Check the paw pads and nails: Look for cuts, scrapes, swelling, discoloration, cracked pads, and damaged nails.
3. Examine between the toes: Many issues—like burrs, grass seeds, or even insect bites—hide in these spaces.
4. Smell their paws: A foul odor can indicate a yeast or bacterial infection.
5. Feel for lumps: Gently press around for bumps or growths that could be cysts, tumors, or foreign objects.
6. Check for sensitivity: If your dog pulls away or flinches when you touch a certain area, it’s likely sore or injured.

Take note of any abnormalities. Even if you don’t see anything wrong, there might still be a hidden problem. Watch your dog’s licking closely—how often it happens, how long it lasts, and if it’s on one paw or all of them.

When to See the Vet

You’ve done your inspection. Now, here’s the crucial question: is it time for a vet visit?

If you see any of the following signs, the answer is yes:

• Persistent or obsessive licking, especially of one paw
• Red, inflamed, or swollen areas
• Hair loss or sores
• Odor, pus, or other discharge
• Limping or signs of pain when walking
• Your dog seems generally uncomfortable or anxious

Also, if your home treatments aren’t working or the licking continues for more than a few days, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Early intervention can prevent minor problems from turning into major issues.

Vets can identify underlying causes you might not even think of—like hidden infections, internal pain, or early signs of chronic disease. Getting a proper diagnosis is crucial for finding the right solution.

Veterinary Diagnosis and Treatments

Diagnostic Methods Used by Vets

Once at the clinic, your vet will perform a full physical exam, starting with the paws and moving through your dog’s entire body to rule out other conditions. They may use the following diagnostic tools:

• Skin scrapings or swabs: To check for infections, mites, or yeast.
• Allergy testing: This may include blood tests or intradermal skin testing.
• Biopsies: In cases of suspicious growths or chronic lesions.
• X-rays or imaging: If joint pain, arthritis, or fractures are suspected.
• Bloodwork: To assess internal issues like thyroid function or immune disorders.

This comprehensive approach helps your vet find the exact root of the licking behavior, which is crucial for long-term relief and treatment.

Common Veterinary Treatments

Depending on the cause, treatment plans will vary widely. Here’s what your vet might recommend:

1. For infections:

• Topical creams, ointments, or medicated shampoos
• Oral antibiotics or antifungals
• Paw soaks and disinfectants

2. For allergies:

• Antihistamines or corticosteroids
• Allergy shots or immunotherapy
• Prescription allergy diets

3. For pain or inflammation:

• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Joint supplements (like glucosamine and chondroitin)
• Pain relievers for arthritis or soft tissue injuries

4. For behavioral issues:

• Anti-anxiety medication
• Behavioral therapy and enrichment plans
• Calming pheromones or anxiety wraps

In serious or persistent cases, your dog may be referred to a specialist like a veterinary dermatologist or behaviorist. The key is early and accurate diagnosis—so don’t delay if you’re seeing signs of a bigger problem.

Effective Home Remedies for Itchy or Irritated Paws

Natural Soaks and Balms

While veterinary care is essential for serious issues, there are a few home remedies that can provide comfort—especially for mild irritation or dry skin. Always consult your vet before trying anything new.

Here are a few safe and soothing options:

Oatmeal Soak

Mix ground oats with warm water in a tub and let your dog soak their paws for 10-15 minutes. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties that help calm itchy, irritated skin.

Apple Cider Vinegar Solution

Combine 1 part ACV with 2–3 parts water and soak the paws briefly (5–10 minutes). This works well against yeast, but avoid using it on open sores or raw skin—it’ll sting!

Coconut Oil or Paw Balm

Apply organic coconut oil directly to the paws. It moisturizes dry, cracked pads and has antimicrobial properties. Look for dog-safe paw balms, especially those with ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, or aloe.

Always dry your dog’s paws thoroughly after any soak to prevent yeast buildup.

Anti-Lick Sprays and Barriers

Sometimes, distraction or deterrence is necessary to stop the licking while the paws heal. Consider:

• Pet-safe bitter sprays that make paws taste unpleasant
• E-collars (cone of shame) to physically prevent licking
• Dog booties to keep the paws covered and clean

These don’t treat the underlying cause but can stop the damage while other treatments take effect. Always pair these with a bigger plan targeting the root issue.

Behavioral Training and Mental Stimulation

Redirecting Behavior Positively

When a medical cause has been ruled out, and your dog’s paw licking is determined to be behavioral, training and redirection become the most effective tools. Dogs often need guidance to break bad habits—just like us.

Here’s how you can gently and positively shift their behavior:

• Distraction: When you catch your dog licking, redirect their attention immediately. Offer a chew toy, initiate a game of fetch, or give them a puzzle feeder to work on.
• Reinforce alternatives: Reward them when they engage in non-licking activities. Treats, praise, or extra playtime go a long way in positive reinforcement.
• Clicker training: Use a clicker to mark the moment your dog stops licking and offer a reward. Over time, they’ll associate stopping the behavior with a positive outcome.
• Daily routines: Structure is comforting. Create a consistent schedule for walks, meals, play, and rest. Predictability can reduce anxiety and eliminate boredom-driven licking.

Avoid punishing your dog. Yelling or scolding only increases stress, which can make the licking worse. Instead, focus on engagement, patience, and rewards. If you’re unsure how to implement training techniques, consult a certified dog trainer or canine behaviorist.

Tools to Reduce Anxiety and Boredom

Dogs are social animals with active minds. Without proper mental and physical stimulation, they quickly turn to unwanted habits like licking. Here’s how you can prevent boredom and anxiety before it becomes a problem:

Mental Stimulation

• Use puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys.
• Teach new commands or tricks.
• Create mini obstacle courses indoors.
• Try scent games or hide-and-seek with treats.

Physical Exercise

• Continue regular walks (ideally twice a day).
• Let your dog explore new environments.
• Engage in structured play like fetch or tug-of-war.
• Consider doggy daycare for social stimulation.

Anxiety Reduction

• Use calming diffusers with dog-appeasing pheromones.
• Provide a safe, cozy space for downtime.
• Try anxiety vests during stressful events (e.g., storms, fireworks).
• Consider calming treats or vet-prescribed anxiety medication.

An engaged, stimulated dog is a happy dog. Reducing stress and providing enrichment isn’t just good for curbing paw licking—it improves overall health and behavior.

Long-Term Prevention Strategies

Routine Grooming and Paw Care

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure—especially regarding paw licking. Keeping your dog’s feet clean and healthy is essential in preventing issues before they begin.

Here’s your long-term grooming checklist:

• Clean paws after walks: Use a pet-safe paw wipe or warm water to rinse off irritants like dirt, pollen, or de-icing salt.
• Trim paw fur and nails regularly: Overgrown fur traps debris, and long nails can lead to abnormal walking patterns and discomfort.
• Inspect regularly: Make it a habit to check your dog’s paws weekly. Look for swelling, redness, or lodged objects.
• Moisturize as needed: If your dog has dry or cracked pads, use a vet-approved balm or coconut oil to soothe them.

Regular grooming isn’t just about looks—it’s a vital step in maintaining paw health and stopping problems before they start.

Dietary Improvements and Supplements

Nutrition plays a major role in skin health. If your dog has recurring skin issues—including itchy, inflamed paws—look at their diet.

Here are some dietary tips:

• Switch to limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic food if food sensitivities are suspected.
• Add omega-3 fatty acids (like fish oil) to reduce inflammation and support skin health.
• Include probiotics to improve gut health, which can positively affect skin and immune response.
• Avoid common allergens like beef, dairy, wheat, soy, and chicken (unless ruled safe by your vet).

Good nutrition strengthens your dog’s immune system and improves their skin barrier, making them less prone to allergies and infections. A healthy diet is one of the best long-term defenses against chronic paw licking.

When It’s Time to Worry: Red Flags to Watch For

Signs of Infection or Serious Underlying Issues

While occasional licking is no significant concern, excessive or targeted licking often signals deeper trouble. You need to know what to look for to prevent a minor issue from becoming a major one.

Here are warning signs that indicate something’s seriously wrong:

• Persistent swelling, redness, or bleeding
• Raw skin, crusts, or scabs
• Hair loss around the paw
• A bad odor (especially yeasty or musty)
• Pus or discharge from between the toes
• Limping or unwillingness to walk
• General signs of distress—whining, hiding, panting

If you notice any of these, it’s time to stop guessing and get professional help. Even a seemingly harmless behavior can mask a more dangerous health issue.

Monitoring and Acting Quickly

Timing is everything for treatment. The earlier you act, the easier it is to treat the underlying cause and break the licking cycle.

Here's how to stay proactive:

• Log licking patterns: Note when your dog licks, which paw, and for how long.
• Take photos: Track physical changes in the paws over time to help your vet.
• Act quickly: If something looks off, don’t wait for it to heal on its own.

Remember, you know your dog best. If something feels off, trust your instincts and consult your vet. You’re your dog’s best advocate.

FAQs

1. Why dog lick one paw only?

Licking just one paw often suggests a localized issue—such as a splinter, insect bite, small wound, or growth. Worth closely examining that paw or having your vet take a look.

2. Are there safe natural remedies for paw licking?

Yes. Oatmeal soaks, diluted apple cider vinegar, and coconut oil can offer relief for mild irritation.

3. Can anxiety significantly cause dogs to lick their paws?

Absolutely. Licking can be a self-soothing behavior for anxious or stressed dogs. Triggers may include separation anxiety, loud noises, or changes in routine. Calming strategies and behavior training can help.

4. Is paw licking a sign of pain?

Yes, especially if the licking is focused on one area. Dogs often lick sore joints, muscles, or wounds to relieve discomfort. It could indicate anything from a minor injury to arthritis.

5. How do I know if my dog’s paw licking is too much?

If the licking is frequent, focused, and causing redness, sores, or hair loss, it’s excessive. Also, look out for behavioral changes or signs of distress. When in doubt, consult your vet.