What Can You Put on a Dog's Paws to Keep Them From Licking Them?

Dogs can lick their paws excessively for a variety of reasons. From nutritional to environmental problems and allergic dermatitis, there is usually an underlying reason. This is why it is important to find out the reason so that the source of the licking can be addressed. Meanwhile, even after the cause has been eradicated, the dog may have developed a habit that is tough to stop. The below remedies can assist with getting a dog to stop licking his paws.

  1. Epsom Salts

    • Put the dog into an Epsom salt bath. A warm saltwater bath will soothe itching and help disinfect the problem skin areas. Rather than rinse the dog's feet, let him lick after the bath. Then gently pat the paws dry. The salt water can be effective as an anti-bacterial solution. Epsom salts also contain sodium chloride, potassium and nitrates, which can help restore the natural bacteria balance on the dog's skin. In addition, it can raise the pH level of the skin, which is known to assist with regulating the normal ratio of bacteria.

    Socks

    • Put white cotton children's socks on the dog's paws. Not only can socks protect the dog from further hurting himself, but they can be soothing on his paws. Any infection will also be contained. Try fastening them onto the paws using a gentle elastic band (being very careful not to constrict blood flow, since the dog will likely easily take them off.

      Consider trying specially made cotton bobby socks by companies like DermaPaw. Their socks are attached to an elastic harness. They also offer video instructions on how to construct them yourself. It is believed that by covering the dog's paw with a non-intrusive fabric, she won't mind wearing them as much or try quite so hard to chew through them.

    Booties

    • Use booties which are made from plastic or rubber. Because the material is sturdier than a sock, they stay on much better and are usually strong enough to keep the dog from chewing them through. Check them frequently to ensure that further problems aren't developing. It is best to use them intermittently with other remedies.

    Baking Soda Water

    • Keep a small container with baking soda water in it on the floor. During allergy season, swish the dogs paws in the water to helps remove pollens which can cause itching and provoke paw licking. Baking soda water also soothes a variety of skin disorders.

    Tea

    • Both chamomile and sage tea can be effective at treating itchiness, which can cause a dog to excessively lick its paws. Chamomile can be an effective antiseptic, sometimes even better than antibiotics when used topically. Soak tea bags briefly and then swab the dog's paws with the tea bags. Using tea bags can also speed healing of wounds. Chamomile is also a calming agent.

      Sage tea can prevent and reduce swelling, while also relieving skin irritation. The anti-histamine benefits allow for a safe alternative to drugs. Sage tea has also been used as a mouthwash to relieve gum problems. Another aspect is that it is helpful for use as an antiperspirant. This can be beneficial since a dog's sweat glands are located in his feet.

    Combination Products

    • If other natural remedies are ineffective perhaps the solution for some dogs will be a combination of things. In addition to specially made cotton socks, DermaPaw also sells a topical ointment made with non-toxic ingredients. Designed to prevent infection and itching, it also has healing properties.