Why Does My Dog Keep Licking Its Paws?

A quick lick after a walk is just your dog tidying up. But if you hear that slurp-slurp-slurp all evening, or notice red, damp or brown-stained fur between the toes, your dog’s paws are trying to tell you something.

Why dogs lick their paws

• Itchy skin or allergies: grass, pollen, dust and some foods can make paws itchy.
• Something stuck: grass seeds, thorns and small stones love to hide between toes.
• Ticks and fleas: both often hide on feet and between toes.
• Dry or cracked pads: hot paving and cold winters can both dry paws out.
• Boredom or worry: licking can be soothing, the way some people bite their nails.
• Long nails: overgrown nails change how a dog walks and can make feet sore.

What really helps

1. Check the paws after walks. Spread the toes gently and look for seeds, thorns, ticks or cuts.
2. Wipe paws clean with a damp cloth after walks to remove pollen and dirt, then dry well.
3. Keep nails trimmed so your dog walks comfortably.
4. Avoid hot paving. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws.
5. Keep boredom away with walks, play and chew toys.

When to speak to a vet

See your vet if the paw is swollen, bleeding, smells bad, your dog is limping, or the licking doesn’t settle within a few days. Ongoing licking can lead to infection, and allergies are best managed with your vet’s help.

The heart of it

Those paws carry your dog on every adventure with you. A few minutes of care each week, checking, cleaning and trimming, keeps them comfortable and gives you a lovely quiet moment together too.