Find out how to prevent a dog from licking its paws with this guide from Bubble Pawz, including dog boots and cone collars.

While all dogs lick their paws from time to time in the natural course of grooming, excessive paw licking can be a sign of a physical or mental issue with your pooch. There are many reasons why dogs lick their paws to excess, and it can cause issues if the skin is irritated enough to create open sores.

If you’ve noticed that your pooch is licking its paws excessively, you're probably looking for guidance on how to prevent a dog from licking its paws. It’s important to counteract this behaviour before it becomes a serious problem, and the first step in doing so is determining what could be causing the behaviour. Once you’ve identified the reason, you’ll then be in an ideal position to solve the problem. Some of the most common reasons for excessive paw licking among dogs include:

Cleaning: dogs clean themselves by licking residue and dirt from their coat/skin. Injuries: if your pet has injured its paw, it will lick it to both address pain and prevent the injury from becoming infected.

Skin allergies: just like humans, dogs can become irritated if they come into contact with certain irritants or chemicals. Since it is difficult for dogs to scratch themselves, licking is more effective in relieving any itch or discomfort. In some cases, fleas or ticks can cause allergies, and you may need to use a flea treatment for dogs to help solve the issue.

Psychological issues: separation anxiety and general nervousness can cause dogs to begin licking their paws as a coping mechanism. Paw licking in older dogs can also be a sign of dementia. If you feel that your dog’s paw licking is stress-induced, why not try treating your pet to some dog grooming, dog bathing or bath bombs for dogs from Bubble Pawz?

General pain: bone and joint issues may cause your dog to excessively lick at one paw in particular. If this is the case, it may be a good idea to contact your local veterinarian for a checkup.

How To Prevent A Dog From Licking Its Paws Excessively

Whether you’ve been able to identify the reason why your dog licks its paws or not, it is important to prevent your pooch from doing so. Even if the root cause remains a mystery for now, these simple tips will teach you how to prevent a dog from licking its paws:

Dog boot

By covering up the paw your dog has a tendency to lick, you’ll be simply preventing your dog from doing so. A specially made canine boot or even a piece of clothing around the paw should suffice. However, it is important to monitor your dog to ensure there is no discomfort. Perhaps you may want to offer some dog grooming at a dog spa as a treat for putting up with wearing a boot.

Cone collar

While cone collars are an extreme approach, they are undoubtedly effective. These collars are commonly provided to dogs after surgery. Most dogs don’t enjoy wearing these collars and it causes considerable stress, so remember to be extra kind to your pet with some treats and accessories for dogs.

Citrus fruits

Citrus fruit juice can be used to deter dogs from licking various areas of the body. However, if your dog's paws are sore or cracked, this could cause considerable pain. Therefore, we recommend avoiding this method until you have ruled out any infections or sores.

A trip to the vet

If the above methods don’t work, a trip to a qualified professional may be in order to gain an appropriate diagnosis. Remember that our four-legged friends can be as apprehensive about going to the vets as humans are about going to the hospital or dentist - so be prepared to cheer your pet up with accessories for dogs from Bubble Pawz, or perhaps evening a pampering dog grooming session!

For further information on ways to spoil your pooch after a stressful visit to the vets, browse the Bubble Pawz website or even get in touch. We’ll be happy to discuss your dog’s condition and recommend the best treats and accessories for dogs to help them feel de-stressed, happy and playful once again. If you need any more guidance on how to prevent a dog from licking its paws, don't hesitate to speak to our team. 

Image by Katrina_S via Pixabay