Why does my dog lick their paws so much?

Dogs lick their paws to clean them, and a little licking after a walk or before a nap is normal. But if your dog licks for long stretches, wakes up to lick, or has reddish-brown stained fur on the paws, something is bothering them.

Common causes

1. Dry or cracked pads

Rough, dry pads can feel uncomfortable. Read cracked paw pads: causes and care.

2. Something stuck

A thorn, a grass seed, a small stone or a splinter between the toes. Check carefully, spreading each toe.

3. Damp paws and infection

In the monsoon especially, wet skin between the toes can develop bacterial or yeast infections. Look for redness, a yeasty smell and brown staining. See monsoon paw care.

4. Allergies

One of the most common causes. Dogs can be allergic to pollen, dust mites, grass or certain foods. Itchy paws are often the first sign, sometimes with itchy ears and belly too.

5. Parasites

Ticks and fleas can hide between the toes. Do a full tick check.

6. Pain

Dogs sometimes lick a sore spot, such as an injured nail, a sprained toe or arthritis in an older dog.

7. Boredom or anxiety

Licking can be self-soothing. Dogs left alone a lot, or going through changes at home, may lick more. Read about separation anxiety.

8. Irritants

Floor cleaners, lawn treatments or chemicals on roads can irritate the paws.

What you can do at home

1. Inspect the paws in good light. Look between toes and pads.
2. Wipe and dry the paws after every walk.
3. Rinse after walks on treated roads or lawns.
4. Switch floor cleaners to a pet-safe one and rinse floors well.
5. Soothe dry pads with a little Cracked Paw Repair Balm at bedtime, on clean, dry, unbroken skin.
6. Add exercise and play if boredom may be the cause: longer walks, sniffing games, puzzle feeders.

When to see the vet

• Redness, swelling, a strong smell or discharge
• Open wounds, bleeding or limping
• Licking that goes on for more than a few days
• Hair loss or broken skin
• Licking along with itching elsewhere (ears, belly, face)

Constant licking keeps the skin wet and can turn a small problem into an infection, so it's worth getting checked early.