Dogs chew their paws for several reasons, many of which are related to discomfort or behavioral issues. Common causes include:
- Pain or injury: Cuts, growths, arthritis, blisters, or objects stuck in paws can cause dogs to chew their paws to relieve discomfort.
- Allergies: Environmental, food, or flea allergies can cause itching and irritation, leading to paw chewing.
- Infections and skin conditions: Bacterial or yeast infections, dermatitis, or inflammation of the paw tissues (pododermatitis) may cause excessive licking or chewing.
- Grooming issues: Overgrown or torn nails and matted fur between toes can prompt paw chewing.
- Anxiety or boredom: Dogs may chew their paws compulsively due to stress, anxiety, or lack of mental stimulation, using the behavior as a form of self-soothing.
Occasional paw chewing can be normal for grooming or removing debris, but excessive chewing that leads to sores or behavioral changes indicates an underlying problem requiring veterinary attention.
