Dogs lick their paws for several reasons, ranging from normal grooming to medical issues. Common causes include:
- Skin irritation or allergies (environmental or food-related), which cause itchiness and discomfort.
- Injuries or foreign objects like cuts, thorns, or burns on the paws.
- Infections such as bacterial or yeast infections.
- Parasites like fleas, ticks, or mites.
- Pain from conditions such as arthritis or sprains.
- Behavioral reasons including boredom, anxiety, or compulsive behaviors.
While occasional paw licking is normal for cleaning, frequent or intense licking suggests an underlying problem that may require veterinary diagnosis and treatment. Monitoring for signs like redness, swelling, or limping, and checking for visible injuries can help identify the cause.
