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Word Count: 664
Read Time: 2 to 3 minutes
The Main Idea: Common Reasons why dogs chew their feet.
Note: There are many DIY ways to solve the itchy paw problem. If the itchiness is causing infection or serious issues, consult your vet.
Here’s a list of 10 possible causes of itchy paws:
1. Contact Dermatitis: Does your dog go out on grass treated with chemicals? Is your carpet sprayed with any irritants or could it have mites in it? Steam clean carpet and keep your dog away from chemically treated lawns or use doggie booties. Booties can also be used in summer to prevent burns on hot pavement.
2. Anxiety: Your dog may be feeling anxious, lonely, or nervous. If your dog has poor eating, excessive drooling, or increased breathing or heart rate, it may also be a sign this is the cause. Pacing can also be a clue.
3. Bacterial Infection: Occasionally, dogs will develop bacterial infections on their paws. If this is the case, the area will also likely be red. Bacterial infections can be relieved with antibiotics.
4. Boredom: Like us, dogs like things to do! They love to chew so give your pooch some chews, like split elk antlers or West Paw Zogoflex Toppl. Toys, doggie puzzles with hidden treats, and a game of catch or tug-of-war are fun activities. Other ideas are hide and seek or sniff the treat game (hide it under a blanket).
5. Claw Issues If a claw is broken or loose, he may be chewing on it to get it off. Trim claws or take to a groomer for a pedicure. Ingrown nails need to be taken care of by a vet. Check also for cuts, splinters, or other injuries.
6. Dry Skin: Dry skin can be very itchy. Moisturize his coat or get a humidifier.
7. Cysts: Cysts are the result of a clogged hair follicle. They can lead to chewing to alleviate the discomfort which can lead to cysts.
8. Parasites: Parasites, including fleas, cause itchiness. Treat for fleas using gentle products.
9. Yeast or Mites: A yeast or mite infection can lead to irritation, itchiness, and redness.
10. Allergies: If a dog feels itchy from some type of allergy, he may itch his paws to relieve the itchy feeling. It is most probably environmental that is the culprit. See #2 below.
Dig Deeper:
1. Try to this formula to get rid of yeast or mites.
1 gallon Water
1 cup Apple cider vinegar
1 cup Peroxide
Dip paw in the formula for 30 seconds.
Terrific Ear Powder(TEP) also kills yeast and mites. Click here to order and for tips.
2. Allergies
It is rarely a food allergy. Most allergies are from environmental factors. Look first for irritants in the environment, both indoors and outside. These could be plants, trees, or house mites. You may need to bath your dog more often with a gentle shampoo.
If you suspect food, the only way to find out what the allergy is by an elimination diet or a food with simple ingredients.
Consider that chemicals, including flea and prevention, especially the oral chews, can weaken your dog’s immune system, which increases the risk of developing allergic reactions. We use and recommend a natural flea and tick remedy that is made with essential oils called Wondercide.
A good quality food, with wholesome ingredients and live pre and pro-biotics like Life’s Abundance also prevents immune issues that can lead to itchiness. It will also improve the coat and general health of your dog. We only use Life’s Abundance treats and chews too, knowing the products are safe and healthy for our dogs and puppies.
3. Care for Your Dog’s Coat to Prevent Itching: In the case of itching from a dry coat, add a conditioner to your dog’s bath routine or switch to a moisturizing oatmeal shampoo. Or get a balm to soothe his dry paw pads.
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