If you’re a dog owner, you’ve likely noticed your dog licking their paws from time to time. While some licking is normal, when dogs lick their paws at night or obsessively throughout the day, it can signal an underlying issue that needs attention.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- Why dogs lick their paws frequently, especially at night
- Effective home remedies to stop dogs from licking or chewing their paws
- The benefits of using dog foot balm for healthy paws
Let’s jump in and find out how to help your dog stay comfortable and happy!
Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws? 6 Common Reasons
1. Allergies
Allergies are one of the most common reasons dogs lick their paws. Your dog might be allergic to:
- Environmental triggers like pollen, mold, or dust mites
- Certain foods
When dogs have allergies, they often try to soothe their itchy paws by licking them.
Signs of allergies:
- Frequent paw licking
- Red, inflamed skin between their toes
- More licking during certain seasons (like spring or fall)
If you’ve noticed that your dog’s licking increases during specific times of the year, it’s worth investigating possible allergies.
2. Boredom or Anxiety
If your dog spends a lot of time alone or doesn’t get enough mental or physical exercise, they may start licking their paws out of boredom or anxiety. This behavior is especially common in dogs with separation anxiety.
Tip: Engage your dog in more playtime, longer walks, or mentally stimulating games like puzzle toys. It helps keep their minds active and reduces the habit of licking out of boredom.
3. Injury or Pain
Sometimes, paw licking is a sign of pain or injury. If your dog is licking one specific paw, they could have:
- A small cut or scrape
- Something stuck in their paw, like a thorn or splinter
- Joint pain or arthritis, especially in older dogs
Make sure to inspect your dog’s paw pads and between their toes for any signs of injury.
4. Fungal or Bacterial Infections
Fungal or bacterial infections between a dog’s toes are pretty common and can lead to itchiness, which causes licking.
Symptoms of infection include:
- Red, irritated skin
- Swelling around the paw
- A foul odor coming from the paws
If you suspect an infection, contact your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.
5. Parasites
Fleas, ticks, or mites can also cause discomfort and itching, leading dogs to lick their paws excessively.
Preventive measures:
- Regularly check your dog’s fur and paws for any signs of fleas or ticks
- Use vet-recommended flea and tick treatments to keep parasites at bay
Treating parasites early can prevent the need for constant paw licking.
6. Dry Skin or Environmental Irritants
If your dog has dry, cracked paw pads, they might lick their paws to soothe the discomfort. Environmental irritants like road salt or harsh cleaning chemicals can also dry out their skin.
Solution: Applying a moisturizing product like dog foot balm can help hydrate the paw pads and keep them from getting dry and irritated.
Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws at Night?
You might notice your dog lick their paws at night more than during the day. This could be because nighttime offers fewer distractions, allowing them to focus on any discomfort they’re feeling. The reasons for licking can range from allergies and boredom to dry, irritated paws from daily activities.
Key reasons dogs lick their paws at night:
- Allergies causing itchiness
- Anxiety or restlessness due to lack of stimulation
- Dry or cracked paws from walking on hot surfaces or exposure to chemicals
Home Remedies to Stop Dogs from Licking or Chewing Their Paws
While addressing the root cause of your dog’s paw licking is essential, some home remedies can provide immediate relief and help break the licking habit.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar Soak
Apple cider vinegar has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that can soothe irritated paws.
How to use:
- Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl
- Soak your dog’s paws for about 5 minutes
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water afterward (avoid this remedy if your dog has open wounds)
2. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural anti-inflammatory that can also moisturize dry paws, helping to prevent licking.
How to use:
- Gently rub a small amount of coconut oil onto your dog’s paws
- This helps soothe irritated skin and may also deter them from licking
3. Oatmeal Soak
Oatmeal is another natural remedy known for its soothing properties, especially for dogs with allergies.
How to use:
- Grind some plain oatmeal into a fine powder
- Mix it into warm water to create a soak
- Let your dog’s paws soak for about 10 minutes for relief
4. Epsom Salt Soak
If your dog’s paws are swollen or they have minor injuries, an Epsom salt soak can help reduce inflammation and provide relief.
How to use:
- Add a few tablespoons of Epsom salt to warm water
- Soak your dog’s paws for 5-10 minutes
- Make sure to dry their paws thoroughly afterward
5. Dog Foot Balm
A specialized dog foot balm is perfect for dogs with dry, cracked paws. Most dog foot balms contain natural ingredients like beeswax and shea butter to moisturize and protect paw pads.
How to use:
- Apply the balm to your dog’s paws after walks or when you notice dryness
- This helps lock in moisture and prevent further irritation
What Is Dog Foot Balm and How Does It Help?
Dog foot balm is designed to moisturize, protect, and heal a dog’s paws, especially during harsh weather conditions or after walking on rough surfaces. The natural ingredients in these balms soothe and hydrate the paws, preventing dryness and cracking, which can lead to excessive licking.
Benefits of using dog foot balm:
- Protects against environmental irritants like road salt
- Helps heal cracked, dry paws
- Reduces discomfort, preventing your dog from licking their paws
When to See a Vet
If you’ve tried the above home remedies to stop dogs from licking or chewing their paws and the licking continues or worsens, it’s time to consult your vet. You should also seek veterinary advice if:
- Licking persists for several days
- You notice swelling, redness, or signs of infection
- Your dog is limping or seems to be in pain
Your vet can determine if the paw licking is due to an underlying health issue that needs more specific treatment.
Conclusion
Knowing why dogs lick their paws is the first step to helping them find relief. Whether it’s allergies, anxiety, or dry skin, addressing the root cause can prevent the discomfort that leads to excessive paw licking. With home remedies like apple cider vinegar soaks or the use of dog foot balm, you can help soothe your dog’s paws and keep them happy.
If the problem continues despite trying these solutions, don’t hesitate to visit your vet to rule out any serious health concerns.
FAQs
Why do dogs lick their paws?
Dogs lick their paws for various reasons, including allergies, dry skin, boredom, anxiety, or infections. If it becomes excessive, it could indicate an issue that needs addressing.
Why do dogs lick their paws at night?
Dogs often lick their paws at night because they’re less distracted and more focused on any discomfort they feel. It could be due to anxiety, dry paws, or allergies.
What home remedies can stop dogs from licking their paws?
Apple cider vinegar soaks
Coconut oil application
Oatmeal or Epsom salt soaks
Using a dog foot balm for moisture and protection
How does dog foot balm help with paw licking?
Dog foot balm hydrates and protects the paws from irritants, reducing discomfort and preventing your dog from licking due to dryness or cracking.
When should I take my dog to the vet for paw licking?
If your dog’s licking persists for more than a few days, or if you see redness, swelling, or signs of infection, it’s time to consult your vet.
Can allergies cause dogs to lick their paws?
Yes, allergies (whether environmental or food-related) are a common cause of paw licking, as they often make the skin itchy and uncomfortable.
