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My dog won't stop licking paws & scratching. What's the root cause?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 4 years and 6 months old | 50 lbs

My dog is some type of a pitbull mix. I've had him for 3 years and he has always licked his paws and scratched his belly. I've tried 10 different shampoos and changed is food at less 15 times. None of these made a difference. 3 different vets have suggested certain foods or shampoos but nothing works and gets to the root cause of his problem. Is there anything that might help pinpoint is problem like blood work?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on July 1st, 2017

Yes, I would recommend doing blood work as the next step, but I would also see if you can get a referral to a veterinary dermatologist. They are experts in skin matters, and having Rocco seen by one of them would be the best for getting to the bottom of his skin problems so he can be treated effectively.

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