Home Remedies for Dog Allergies on the Paws

Dogs spend most of their time on their feet, so having an allergy on their paws creates considerable discomfort that is continually aggravated. Depending on the type of allergy, the symptoms might be more apparent during certain seasons. Determining the cause of the allergy is the best long-term solution, but home remedies can provide interim relief.

  1. Symptoms

    • Allergies on the paws can lead to infection.

      An allergy on the paws typically manifests itself in the form of itching. The dog responds to the itching by licking and chewing, which can cause sores to form. These sores are subjected to continual friction when the dog walks, which can lead to infection. Relieving the itching can prevent the sores from forming. Protecting the paws can reduce the risk of infection.

    Topical Itch Relief

    • Some herbal medications have been used successfully to relieve the itching caused by allergies. One such medication is calendula ointment. A thin coat of ointment should be applied twice daily to the paws. Dogs will lick off anything you apply to their paws, so the dog should be monitored to prevent licking while the ointment is absorbed.

    Itch-Relieving Bath

    • The dog's paws can be soaked in either a cool bath of Epsom salts or an oatmeal shampoo. The dog's paws should be soaked for 5-10 minutes a few times a day. The dog should not be allowed to drink the bath water since it can cause illness.

    Protecting the Paws

    • Dog booties can be used to prevent the dog from causing sores due to excessive licking and to protect existing sores. Dog booties are commonly used by dog mushers to protect the paws of sled dogs. Dog booties are basically a little sock made out of a variety of materials, with a Velcro strap to hold the booty in place. Dogs get used to booties, but they may initially engage in a lot of high stepping and chewing to try and get them off.