If you've noticed your dog constantly biting and licking their paws, you may be wondering what's causing this behavior.

While occasional grooming is normal for dogs, excessive paw licking and chewing can indicate underlying issues that require attention. In this article, we'll delve into the potential reasons behind your dog's paw-focused behavior and offer insights into how to take care of it.

Understanding the Causes

1. Allergies: Allergies, whether to food, environmental factors like pollen or grass, or even household cleaners, can trigger paw licking and chewing in dogs. These allergies often lead to skin irritation, prompting dogs to seek relief by licking and chewing their paws.
2. Skin Irritation or Inflammation: Skin conditions such as dermatitis, fungal infections, or parasitic infestations (like fleas or mites) can cause discomfort and itching, leading dogs to focus their attention on their paws.
3. Pain or Injury: Dogs may lick or chew their paws in response to pain or discomfort caused by injuries, cuts, bruises, or foreign objects lodged between their toes.
4. Boredom or Stress: Behavioral issues, including boredom, anxiety, or stress, can manifest in paw licking and chewing as a form of self-soothing or attention-seeking behavior.
5. Yeast Infections: Yeast overgrowth, particularly in warm and moist environments like between the toes, can result in itching and irritation, prompting dogs to lick and chew their paws excessively.

How to Address the Issues

1. Maintain Good Paw Hygiene: Keep your dog's paws clean and dry to prevent the accumulation of dirt, bacteria, and yeast.  By incorporating a gentle cleansing routine with a soothing paw balm enriched with natural ingredients like almond oil, beeswax, and shea butter, you can effectively address paw irritation and promote overall paw health and hygiene for your beloved pet. 
2. Provide Mental and Physical Stimulation: Combat boredom and stress by providing your dog with plenty of mental and physical stimulation through interactive toys, regular exercise, and positive reinforcement training. Very important for mental health and stimulation.
3. Consider Dietary Changes: In some cases, dietary changes may help alleviate paw licking and chewing associated with food allergies or sensitivities. Consult your veterinarian or dog nutritionist to understand better what can trigger allergic reactions.
4. Talk to A Vet: If your dog is exhibiting persistent paw licking and chewing, it's essential to seek guidance from your vet. They can conduct a thorough examination to identify any underlying medical conditions and recommend appropriate treatment to aid the cause immediately. Your vet can also help to identify potential allergens triggering your dog's symptoms, such as specific foods or environmental factors, and take steps to minimize exposure.

Paw licking and chewing in dogs can stem from a variety of underlying causes, ranging from allergies and skin irritation to behavioral issues and medical conditions. By identifying the root cause and implementing appropriate interventions, you can help alleviate your dog's discomfort and ensure their overall well-being. Underneath we added a list of great ingredients to look for in balms or sprays to combat these problems. 

List of Ingredients to Aid Irritated Skin on Dogs

1. Oatmeal: Soothes dry, itchy skin and provides relief from irritation and inflammation.
2. Honey: Possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties, aiding in wound healing and soothing irritated skin.
3. Aloe Vera: Known for its cooling and moisturizing properties, aloe vera helps soothe and heal skin irritations, cuts, and burns.
4. Beeswax: Creates a protective barrier over the skin, locking in moisture and preventing environmental damage.
5. Coconut Oil: Acts as a natural moisturizer and antibacterial agent, promoting skin hydration and combating bacterial infections.
6. Vitamin E: Acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting the skin from free radical damage and promoting tissue repair and regeneration. You'll find vitamin E in nuts such as almonds, hazelnuts and plant oils as olive oil and much more.
7. Chamomile: Calms irritated skin, reduces inflammation, and helps alleviate itching and discomfort.
8. Tea Tree Oil (in diluted form): Possesses antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties, making it effective in treating various skin conditions and infections.
9. Calendula: Has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, aiding in wound healing and soothing skin irritations.
10. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (e.g., Fish Oil): Promote healthy skin and coat, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of allergic skin conditions.
11. Shea Butter: Moisturizes and nourishes dry, cracked skin, providing relief from itching and discomfort.

The Dogcanics® Dog Balm contains honey, beeswax, shea butter, almond extracts to aid your dogs rashes, irritation and outbreaks. Our Dog Shampoo contains oats, aloe vera and coconut oil to aid dry and sensitive skin while keeping it clean.