Dear VetBabble,
Why has my dog suddenly started excessively licking his paws?
As a caring pet owner, it can be concerning when your dog suddenly starts to exhibit unusual behavior, such as excessive paw licking. Although there could be several reasons for this, we’ll provide some valuable information and advice to help you determine potential causes and solutions for your pet’s particular situation.
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Causes of paw licking
The first step in addressing your dog’s paw licking habit is to understand the possible causes behind this behavior. Some common reasons for excessive paw licking include allergies, mites, bacterial or fungal infections, and even stress or boredom. We recommend reading our article on Why Does My Dog Lick His Paws? to gain a comprehensive understanding of the various factors that could be contributing to your dog’s paw licking.
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Seeking professional help
Since some of the issues mentioned above require specific treatments, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian to identify the root cause of your dog’s itchiness, which is likely what’s driving them to lick their paws constantly. Your vet will perform a thorough examination, perhaps including a skin scrape, to pinpoint the exact issue and suggest the most appropriate treatment. In the meantime, you can utilize an e-collar to prevent further harm caused by excessive licking.
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Addressing allergies
One of the most common causes of paw licking in dogs is allergies. These could be environmental, like pollen, dust, or insect bites, or even food-related. Our articles on Dog Allergies and Pet Food Allergies – Symptoms and Treatments provide in-depth insights into the types of allergies that may affect your pet and how to address them. If your vet suspects an allergy, they might recommend an elimination diet or certain tests to identify the allergen and work on a treatment plan.
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Managing itchiness
Regardless of the cause, managing your dog’s itchiness is crucial in providing them with much-needed relief and preventing further complications. Your vet may prescribe medications, special shampoos or creams, and other treatment options, depending on the cause of the itchiness. In addition, our article on Simple Tips for Itchy Dogs provides helpful suggestions that you can implement at home to make your pet more comfortable and reduce irritation.
In conclusion, your dog’s sudden excessive paw licking might be a signal of an underlying issue that requires prompt attention. By understanding the possible causes, seeking veterinary help, addressing allergies, and managing itchiness, you can help your furry friend get back to their usual happy, healthy self.
