Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Already a member? Sign in
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Why is my dog licking feet, not eating, and aggressive after heat?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Female | unspayed | 6 years and 5 months old | 95 lbs

Dahlia licking her feet removing hair. Does not want to eat. Had her period three weeks ago. She is sleeping and wants to bite the other rescue. Why

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 24th, 2017

Pit Bull Terriers are notorious for having skin issues/allergies. That is my best guess as to what is going on. She is probably agitated and that is why she is getting snippy with the other dog. Dogs also lick their feet incessantly when they are stressed out and this may be the case with her if you have brought another dog in the house. Dogs that are not spayed will also have hormonal issues that can cause this behavior. If you are not planning on breeding her it would be best to get her spayed. In the meantime you can try treating her for allergy like symptoms and see if it helps: 1. You need to get an E-collar (cone) to stop her from licking. If she doesn't stop licking the feet will never get better no matter what you do. You can buy them at Petco: https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/category/dog/dog-health-and-wellness/dog-ecollars?ddkey=https%3ASearchDisplay The collar must be long enough to go past the end of her nose or she will still be able to lick. 2. You can give her some Benadryl - one capsule/tablet for every 25 pounds of body weight (example, if she is 75 pounds she would take 3 capsules). You can do this twice a day. Dogs metabolize this drug very quickly which is why they take such a high dose. 3. Bathe her with medicated shampoo. I would do her whole body the first time and then every 3 days I would do just the feet. Follow the instructions on the bottle. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Veterinary-Formula-Clinical-Care-Hot-Spot-and-Itch-Relief-Medicated-Shampoo-for-Dogs-and-Cats-16-fl-oz/24885757 4. On the days you don't bathe her you can spray her feet down with this: https://www.walmart.com/ip/DOUXO-Calm-Micro-Emulsion-Spray-6-8-oz/184782529 If none of this helps. You should take her to your vet for an exam as there may be something else underlying. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 24th, 2017

    Poor Dahlia! She could have allergies causing her to lick her feet but it is concerning that she is lethargic and not eating. It is possible the change in mood and aggression is secondary to her hormones since she was just in heat. She could, however, have an infection so she should be examined by a vet, especially if it continues or she becomes worse to determine the cause and treat. She may need an antibiotic, anti-histamine, and/or corticosteroid to treat.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored