How to Stop Paw Licking

You love your dog, but there is no denying that the sound of constant paw licking can be irritating. Besides getting on your nerves, excessive paw licking can be harmful to your dog. Sores can form on its paws or legs and your dog can lose its fur. The reasons for licking vary from dog to dog, but can include itchy skin, allergies, stress or compulsive behavior. Stop licking to save your dog's paws from its tongue.

Things You'll Need

  • Towel
  • Dog shampoo
  • Dog conditioner
  • Bug spray
  • Medication
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Instructions

  1. Prevent Excessive Paw Licking

    • 1

      Clean your dog's paws thoroughly. It is easy for dirt, grass and other irritants to get stuck in the toenails and fur on your dog's paws. Wipe your dog's feet with a towel or washcloth when it comes inside. Pull mud, dirt and grass from between its toes. Keep your dog's paws clean to help prevent skin irritation.

    • 2

      Purchase hypoallergenic dog shampoo and bathe your dog regularly. Your dog may be subject to seasonal allergies and it can be exposed to these when it goes outside. Allergies can make your dog's skin and paws itch, causing licking. Washing your dog monthly or even weekly with hypoallergenic dog shampoo can protect it from allergies. Use conditioner on your dog to keep skin from drying out and getting itchy.

    • 3

      Check your yard for pests, such as ants, that bite your dog's paws when it is outside. Ant bites can be painful and itchy for your dog and cause them to lick their paws until sores form. Eliminate ants and other bugs with spray, but keep your dog indoors until the spray is completely dry to prevent poisoning.

    • 4

      Talk to your veterinarian about medications for severe allergies. In some cases, antihistamines are required to keep your dog from licking its paws. Your veterinarian can help you determine if stress is the cause of your dog's licking. Discuss situations that cause your dog severe stress and work with your veterinarian or trainer to recondition your dog and reduce its stress. Medication may be needed for situations, such as thunderstorms, that cause your dog severe anxiety.

    • 5

      Take your dog for daily walks. Play games with your dog or take it jogging or swimming. Excess energy can lead your dog to develop habits such as paw licking. These habits can turn into a compulsion if your dog has no other way to expend its energy. Help your dog get enough exercise to prevent it from licking its paws.