Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog keeps chewing and licking his paws. Why is he doing this?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Why does my dog chew his feet?

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Christie Long, DVM

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on April 5th, 2018

Dogs may chew on their feet for a number of reasons. The most common of these is underlying allergies to either environmental or food allergens. Nearly anything can cause an allergic response, and these reactions in dogs typically lead to itching, which often manifests as chewing on or licking the feet. Other causes of foot chewing include foreign material in the paw pads or nail beds, infection in the skin or pads of the feet, problems with the toenails, pain, or obsessive behavioral issues. A trip to the veterinarian is best in order to examine your dog’s feet, perform any necessary diagnostic tests, and determine the best course of treatment. Allergy management strategies, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or anxiety medication may be needed to help get your dog’s foot chewing under control. Finally, I suggest you check out [this article](https://www.petcoach.co/article/most-common-reasons-why-dogs-chew-their-paws/) for additional information about this common behavior.

Vote icon

939Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 19th, 2019

    Licking and chewing on feet is often a sign of allergies in dogs. We can have allergies to things in the environment like grass, pollen, mold, dust, etc., and also allergies to ingredients in food. I would recommend an exam at your vet to discuss this issue. They may recommend a trial of allergy medication like an antihistamine or other medication or diet chagnes depending on the appearance of the feet/skin.

    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
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my 5-week-old chick struggling to walk with splayed legs?
Is your 5-week silkie chick struggling to walk, with splayed legs & curled feet? A board-certified vet explains possible causes like Mareks and what to do next.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Training & Behavior
My new pet is squirmy when I hold her. How do I make her comfortable?
Got a squirmy, climbing pet? Certified vet Dr. Stafford shares expert tips to build comfort & positive associations during handling. Discover short session methods!
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored