If your life is blessed with a pet dog, then you are indeed living your best life. To have a pet that loves you unconditionally is genuinely priceless. Your day-to-day life is more exciting when you have pets at home to goof around, listen to your talks, cuddle with you or be by your side when you are feeling low.
Every pet parent would agree that their dogs are no less than babies, and now and then, they are worried about them getting hurt or falling sick, and this concern is very natural for pet owners. Have you been worrying lately about your dog’s health? Have your dogs been licking their paws very often? Why do dogs lick their paws? This is still a mystery to many pet owners, and there are many reasons behind it.
The Obsession With Licking Their Paws
It is a widespread habit among dogs and cats or any animal of the cat and dog family to lick their paws. This is a common thing cats and dogs usually do to clean their paws or soothe minor injuries, but when this becomes an obsession, is it a good sign? The most considerable confusion to pet owners is why dogs lick their paws so much. Do they love to do so, or is it some warning sign to be aware of?
Most of the time, licking paws can be just for a time pass or self-cleanup. There may be some dirt build-up in the paws, which your dog does not like. Or they are simply enjoying the sensation of licking the paw. But when this becomes a habit, and you often catch your dog paw-licking, there can be some underlying health or behavioral issues. It can be injuries, allergies, or signs of depression and anxiety.
5 Common Reasons Behind Dogs Licking Their Paws Often
Becoming cautious from the beginning is an excellent way of dealing with issues your dog is facing. The licking of the paw can be taken as an early sign of some underlying health issue or other important issues you need to pay attention to. These are the six common reasons behind your dog’s obsession:
Minor, Hidden Injuries In The Paw
The most common reason behind this obsession can be a minor injury that is invisible to you but is troubling your dog. By taking them to the vet, you can discover the wound and treat it well.
Separation Anxiety And Depression
If you have to leave your pet alone, locked up in a room for long hours because you have to go to work, there is a high chance your dog will face separation anxiety. If you also see some behavioral issues, it can be an early sign of depression. Your pet probably licks paws often to release stress or feel less anxious. You may also see signs of chewing paws along with licks.
Allergy or Skin Irritation
It can be a food allergy or skin irritation that makes their paw itchy, hence all the licks and chews.
Trouble With Parasites
Parasites can be troublesome and scary. Most of the time, it is tough to find them hiding inside the fur, giving your furry friend much pain. Take your pet to the vet regularly to avoid this.
Immense Pain
If your dog is facing immense joint pains or pain in the paw, they are expected to lick them very often. This tremendous pain can be an early sign of arthritis.
Final Thoughts
No matter the reason behind your dog’s obsession with licking paws, it is always wise to get them checked by a vet before anything serious happens. Animals weren’t born with the ability to speak to humans, but they have a unique way of communicating what they need or how much they love. Similarly, when your furry friend goes through some health issues, they have a unique way of showing signs that you need to recognize.
