Is Your Dog’s Paw-Licking a Sign of Illness?

A dog will lick his paws from time to time. If your dog does it more frequently and for longer periods of time than normal, you need to be aware. Here are some of the causes behind paw-licking.

Dogs, unlike humans, are unable to communicate. This makes it all the more crucial to be aware of their signals and behaviors. It is not uncommon for dogs to lick their paws. However, if this behavior becomes excessive, it is important to take action.

Paw licking is a constant occurrence

This is a questionable behavior if your dog licks its paws constantly, even at night.

Licking the paws may cause inflammation in the skin and claw beds. Licking can also darken a dog’s coat, especially if it has a lighter color. What is the purpose of this behavior?

What causes dogs to lick their paws?

When your dog licks its paw constantly, it is usually interpreted as an indication of boredom or stress. It can also be a sign of fear of abandonment. Before a psychological issue can be considered, it is important to first investigate medical reasons. Then it’s time to visit the vet. He will be able to determine the cause and provide assistance for your pet. You can find the following diseases behind a constant paw-licking:

What are the causes of abscesses on the intermediate toe?

Abscesses in the toes can also cause excessive paw-licking. It is caused by a bacterial skin infection between the toes. In this instance, hair shafts are able to penetrate deeper layers of the skin on your dog. Blistering, skin redness and fatty plaques are the result. Abscesses between the toes can be treated with antibiotics, antiseptics baths or ointments.

What is the cause?

Your veterinarian will check for yeast fungus if your dog is constantly licking its paw. Malassezia (also known as yeast fungi) can cause inflammation of the skin between toes.

The normal skin flora in dogs includes yeast fungi. If the conditions are right, as in a humid, warm climate, they will multiply and have a pathogenic effect.

When your veterinarian diagnoses yeast fungus in your dog, a shampoo that is suitable for the condition will usually be sufficient. Generally, the paw-licking stops.

Dog paws with foreign body

Not to mention, an object that is foreign can be the reason why your dog is licking heavily his paws or between his toes. Once they’re in, it is difficult to see them. They can still be painful to your partner. Any foreign object found in the interdigital space of your dog must be removed surgically. The paw-licking behavior of your dog will stop only after you have surgically removed the foreign object.