Dogs are certified self-groomers that constantly clean and care for themselves. However, anything more than the usual paw licking and care can become an indicator that something is wrong. Here are some of the common reasons that paw licking becomes a symptom of a bigger issue.
Causes of Excessive Paw Licking
Anxiety
Stress is a major factor in the mannerisms and behaviors of your dog. Fortunately, many of these have clear, physical indicators that make it simpler to identify. Causes of stress can be moving to a new location, a change to their daily routine, the tension in the home, or any variety of other reasons. For example, when your dog commonly sleeps in a particular area but has started changing its habits consistently, consider the events leading up to that change. What can you do to improve their daily life?
Dry Paws
Additionally, dryness is another symptom dogs will try to combat themselves. This comes most often in warmer climates where the animal has less control of their environment. Also, you’ll see them struggle to find comfort more often in lounging around or sleeping. Sometimes your dogs will even start to whine and potentially wake you up.
Allergies
Dogs are just like humans in that they have allergy season as well. Excessive sneezing isn’t always the clear-cut symptom you need to look for. Licking their paws is a consistent symptom with any dog that has trouble with allergies.
What Can I Do About My Dog’s Paw Licking Habits?
While some of these symptoms are out of your control, the best you can do is limit their effect on your dog’s daily life. Take time to find reliable symptom reducers for allergies, or even start applying lotions to their dry paws. Additionally, if you’re aiming to improve the relationship you carry with your dog, give us a call today! We’ll assess your current relationship firsthand, and find pain points for improvement.
We’re looking forward to speaking with you!
