Why Is My Dog Licking His Paws
This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.
Excessive paw licking in dogs: allergies, injuries, anxiety, infections, and pain. How to stop the behavior and treat causes.
Understanding This Symptom
Small behavioural or physical changes almost always land first; the owners who catch them are the ones whose dogs do well. This article covers the most common causes, warning signs that indicate an emergency, and what you can expect at the veterinarian.
When to Seek Emergency Care
If your dog shows sudden severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, collapse, uncontrolled bleeding, or seizures, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own.
Common Causes
Less Serious Causes
More Serious Causes
- Poisoning or toxic exposure
What to Watch For
- Lethargy or reluctance to move or play
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in stool
Home Care and First Steps
Veterinary Diagnosis
Your veterinarian will typically:
- Perform a thorough physical examination
Treatment Options
Prevention
Long-Term Management
When to Get a Second Opinion
Related Symptom Guides
- Why Is My Dog Not Eating?
- Why Is My Dog Shaking?
- Why Is My Dog Limping?
- Why Is My Dog Vomiting?
- Why Is My Dog Coughing?
Should I go to the emergency vet?
Go the same day if a paw is swollen, bleeding, or has a foreign body you can see between the pads, or if the face is swelling too. Ongoing licking of red feet can be booked this week.
How much will treatment cost?
The visit looks between the toes and may do a skin scraping or a cytology tape. A food trial, allergy medication, or treatment for a yeast infection are different plans with different follow-up costs. Ask what the first visit includes.
Can I treat this at home?
Rinse the paw with water and keep the dog from licking it with a cone if the skin is broken. Never give ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen. A salty sidewalk burn and an allergy can look alike until someone looks between the pads.