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Why does my dog constantly lick her paw and get anxious when I touch it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 7 years and 1 month old | 20 lbs

My old lady, Joy been lately continuously licks her right back paw. She gets tense and anxious while doing it. And when I get closed by to touch it, she refused my help. Please help.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Darvishian

Veterinarian

Published on December 8th, 2017

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Joy. She could be suffering from pododermatitis and it has many causes. Bacterial/yeast infections, allergies (inhaled, food), demodex mange mites, parasite problems, are among some of the more common causes. I would advise taking Joy to your vet. Your vet can gather a detailed history and perform an exam. Based on those findings, they can then advise you on a diagnostic/treatment plan. Possible tests include fecal tests/skin scrapes, skin cytology, bacterial culture/sensitivity, biopsy, allergy testing, etc. Treatment is based on what is learned from these tests. This could involve antibiotics, antifungal medicines, foot soaks, antihistamines, steroids, allergy medications, etc. She may require an Elizabethan collar to prevent her from licking the paw also. Good luck

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