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My puppy licks paws and scratches a lot. What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | 1 year and 3 months old | 13 lbs

I have a newly rescued 8 month old half shih tzu, half ? puppy who licks her paws, hind end & scratches a lot. No fleas. Should I try gluten free food or any other suggestions?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 21st, 2018

I'd have Penny seen by a vet for this problem. Grain allergies are actually very rare in dogs. In dogs who have allergies, only about 10% of them have food allergies and the majority of these food allergies are protein related. But there are other causes of allergies, such as the environment, which is much more common than a food allergy. Other causes of itching include ringworm and mites, and those need to be ruled in or out so she can be treated correctly. I'd call your vet today to make an appointment for her. Until you get her seen by a vet, you can try giving her an oatmeal bath. This may be soothing to her skin, and could temporarily relieve her of her itching. I hope this helps!

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