Treatments for Paw Chewing in Dogs

Dogs chew their paws for a variety of reasons, and its a common affliction in dogs. Dogs may chew on their paws because something is lodged in their paw, and they are trying to remove it. Also, it may also be a result of an allergy or arthritis, or the dog could simply be chewing their paws out of boredom or anxiety. Pet owners should assess their individual situation before implementing any treatments.

  1. Topical Treatments

    • To help dogs stop chewing their paws, there are several topical treatments on the market that can help with the issue. According to Professor's House, these topical ointments have certain smells and tastes that keep dogs away from the area. The smell may be something distinct, like Citronella, and the taste could be something spicy like hot sauce. Wounded Warrior is an example of an all-natural topical ointment that pet owners can apply to their dog.

    Restraint Collar

    • Dogs can be persistent about chewing their paws, and sometimes this can lead the animals to make themselves sore or injured. A restraint collar can be purchased, so the dog cannot chew on the affected area. This allows the dog's paws time to heal. An E-collar is a cone-shaped device that helps dogs when it comes to chewing their paws.

    Positive Interaction

    • If a dog is chewing its paws because of boredom, the best way to treat the problem is by positive interaction. A pet owner can help their dog by playing with them more, making sure they are well fed and also walking their dog, making sure their pet gets enough exercise. These actions distract and entertain the dog, so that it no longer chews its paws out of anxiety or boredom.