Why Is My Dog Licking Their Paws?
Is your dog constantly licking their paws? You’re not alone—this is one of the most common questions pet parents ask. While a little paw licking is normal, too much can be a sign that something’s not quite right. From allergies to anxiety, there are several reasons why your pup might be licking away. Let’s dig into the most common causes and offer some simple dog care tips to help your pup feel better fast!
1. Allergies: Food, Environmental, or Fleas
Just like people, dogs can have allergies—and they can make your pup super itchy!
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Food allergies: Common triggers include chicken, beef, dairy, or grains.
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Environmental allergies: Think pollen, dust, grass, or mold.
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Flea allergies: Even one flea bite can cause a big reaction in sensitive dogs!
Paw licking is a way for dogs to try to relieve the itchiness. If your dog licks their paws a lot during certain seasons or right after coming inside, environmental allergies might be the cause. If the licking is constant year-round, a food allergy could be the issue.
Dog care tip: Try keeping your dog’s paws clean with Squishface Wrinkle Wipes after walks or outdoor play. They’re gentle and great for wiping away allergens like pollen and dirt!
2. Pain or Injury
Dogs can't say, "Ouch!" so they often lick a paw that’s hurting. If your pup stepped on something sharp, got a small cut, or strained a muscle, they might lick the spot to soothe it. Check for:
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Redness
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Swelling
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Cuts or scrapes
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Limping
Dog care tip: Keep an eye out for limping or favoring one paw.
3. Infections: Bacterial or Fungal
If your dog’s paws smell bad, look red, or have gunky buildup between the toes, they could have a bacterial or fungal infection. Licking just makes it worse and spreads the infection.
Moisture plays a big role here. When your dog’s paws stay damp—like after swimming or running through wet grass—it creates the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to grow. That’s why it’s super important to keep your dog’s skin and paws dry.
Dog care tip: Use Squishface Slobber Towels to gently wipe down your dog after a beach day or a swim. These soft towels are great for drying off paws and folds to prevent moisture-related issues.
4. Behavioral Issues: Anxiety, Stress, or Boredom
Sometimes, licking isn’t about physical problems—it’s emotional. Dogs often lick their paws when they’re feeling anxious, stressed, or bored. It's like a nervous habit.
If your dog is home alone a lot or has had a change in routine, paw licking may be their way of coping.
Dog care tip: Keep your pup mentally stimulated with puzzle toys, regular walks, and lots of love. A bored dog is more likely to lick!
How to Help Your Dog Stop Licking Their Paws
Now that you know the common causes, here are a few smart dog care tips to help manage the licking:
Start with daily dog grooming. Keeping your dog’s paws clean and dry is key—especially between the toes, where bacteria and yeast love to hide. After walks, rainy-day adventures, or playtime in water, dry their paws thoroughly to prevent trapped moisture. For quick, gentle cleaning, reach for Squishface Wrinkle Wipes—formulated without harsh chemicals, they're perfect for dogs with allergies or sensitive skin.
Once paws are clean and dry, apply Squishface Toe Paste—a must-have for irritated or inflamed skin between the toes. Made with natural, pet-safe ingredients like shea butter, sunflower seed oil, and rosemary leaf oil, this fast-drying, non-staining paste helps draw out excess moisture, calm irritation, and create a protective barrier that keeps bacteria and yeast at bay.
Why You’ll Love It
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Moisturizes & Protects: Hydrating oils nourish dry, cracked skin while defending against moisture and bacteria.
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Absorbs Moisture Fast: Kaolin clay and sodium bicarbonate draw out dampness from between the toes.
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Soothes Irritated Skin: With oregano oil, shea butter, and sunflower seed oil to calm discomfort.
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Safe if Licked: Made with all-natural, lick-safe ingredients.
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Non-Staining & Fast-Drying: No sticky mess or residue.
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Prevents Infections & Cysts: Keeps problem areas clean, dry, and healthy.
How to Use
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Clean the Area: Use Squishface Wrinkle Wipes to remove dirt, debris, and moisture.
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Apply the Paste: Spread a liberal layer of Toe Paste between the toes.
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Cover & Protect: Use Squishface dog socks to keep the paste in place for 24 hours.
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Repeat Daily: Apply fresh paste once a day for 7–10 days or until symptoms improve.
The Bottom Line:
Paw licking might seem harmless, but it can point to bigger issues like allergies, pain or injury, infections, or behavioral issues. The good news? With a little awareness and some smart dog care tips, you can help your pup feel better fast.
Products like Squishface Wrinkle Wipes, Wrinkle Paste, and Slobber Towels make paw care easy, effective, and gentle on your dog’s skin. Keep your furry friend clean, dry, and comfy—and those paws will stay happy and healthy!
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