Why Does My Dog Chew His Feet?

Question:
My dog is always chewing the bottom of his feet (the paw area). Is there something I can do to make him stop, and is there a reason he is doing this?

A:  I would recommend having a veterinarian look at your dog's feet.

Dogs will chew their paws for many different reasons.  The most common cause of feet licking is allergies.  An allergy to grasses, trees, and other elements in the environment will cause very itchy feet.  Does your dog chew on his/her feet more after being outside?  Allergies to certain proteins in the foods can also cause itchy feet.  A cut on the bottom of the pad will cause licking.  With the heat being so bad, the pavement is a lot hotter and many dogs will sensitive feet will actually get blisters on their feet from the hot gravel.

You can try soaking your dog's feet in Malaseb shampoo.  Let them soak for 10-15 minutes before rinsing.  Do this a few times a week to help with some relief.  (This shampoo is an antifungal, antibacterial shampoo)

I would recommend having your veterinarian examine your dog's paws to determine the cause of the licking and chewing.

~Dr. Page Wages

Oberlin Animal Hospital