Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws?

Understanding the “Why,” the “What”—and the Best Help

Have you noticed your dog constantly licking their paws and wondered what’s behind the behaviour? While the occasional lick is part of a dog’s natural grooming routine, frequent or intense paw licking can signal that something’s wrong.

Let’s dig into why dogs lick their paws, what you should look out for, and how you can help, especially with allergy-friendly, nose-to-tail nutrition and supplements.

The “Why”: Common Causes

Dogs lick their paws for several reasons, some normal, some needing your attention:

• Grooming: After walks or meals, dogs clean their paws of sand, dirt, or debris.
• Injury or Pain: Cuts, stings, burns, foreign bodies (such as grass seeds) or sore nails may cause sudden, intense licking. Examine the paws closely if the behaviour starts abruptly.
• Dermatitis & Skin Problems: Allergies to grass, chemicals, or food can cause dermatitis and make paws very itchy and irritated.
• Parasites or Infections: Fleas, mites, and yeast/bacterial infections commonly trigger paw licking and discomfort.
• Food Allergies: Some dogs react to certain ingredients in their food, resulting in itchy paws and persistent licking.
• Boredom or Anxiety: When medical issues have been ruled out, behavioural factors like boredom or stress may be to blame.

The “What”: What to Expect (and Look For)

• Isolated licking: Focused on one paw? Check for injury or infection.
• Redness, swelling, or discolouration: These are signs of irritation and need attention.
• “Saliva staining”: Brown or red fur from constant licking points to persistent discomfort.
• Digestive upset: If allergies are involved, other signs, like tummy troubles or skin flare-ups, may appear.

The “How”: Helping Your Paw-Licking Pup

1. Start With Allergy-Friendly Nutrition

Sensitive skin and paw licking are often linked to food allergies or intolerances. Feeding a dog Sensitive Adult Dry Food, made without common allergens and with carefully selected proteins, can help calm skin, reduce inflammation, and support your dog’s immune system.

2. Try Irritated Skin Supplements

Supplements designed for irritated skin support wellness from the inside out. Our vet formulated 1-a-day chews are rich in:

• Omega-3 & 6 fatty acids: Soothe sensitive skin and reduce itching.
• Dried algae, a concentrated source of phospholipids and fatty acids - vital for healthy skin regeneration and coat growth
• Beta Glucans, essential nutrients to help the good gut bacteria thrive, restoring and maintaining health gut microflora.

A regular routine of skin and allergy supplements can make a noticeable difference, especially when combined with a gentle, hypoallergenic diet.

3. Practical Tips & Daily Care

• Keep paws clean: Rinse and dry after walks if they get mucky, especially important if allergies or irritants are suspected.
• Groom regularly: Trim fur around very hairy paws to avoid trapping dirt and allergens; use mild, vet-recommended shampoos and balms.
• See your vet: If licking is intense, sudden, or comes with swelling, limping, or wounds, consult your veterinarian for a diagnosis and treatment.
• Consider booties or socks: These can help limit exposure to outdoor allergens and protect irritated skin (for short periods).
• Address boredom/anxiety: Puzzle toys, walks, and playtime help redirect attention away from compulsive licking if your dog is bored.
• Always check your dog’s feet in between the toes (and underneath) after walks during the hotter months when grass seeds are very common and can bury deep into the skin and travel even further in if they aren’t spotted and removed quickly 

Supporting Every Inch: Nose-to-Tail!

At Omni, we know healthy paws start with whole-health support. Our allergy-friendly Sensitive Adult Dry Food and vet-formulated Irritated Skin Supplements are tailored to soothe, nourish, and promote lasting comfort, from nose to tail. They’re easy to feed, gentle on tummies, and backed by science, so your dog can put their best paw (and fur!) forward every day.

If you’re ever unsure or want expert guidance, our friendly Omni vet team is here with tips and advice for your dog’s individual needs.

Let’s help every pup say goodbye to itchy paws, and hello to happy, healthy adventures!