Why is my dog licking paws and panting heavily? Should I worry?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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  Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

  Veterinarian

  Published on September 10th, 2019

  The continued licking could be several things including allergies to fleas, skin mites, allergies to something in the environment, food allergy or endocrine disease. Each one of these problems is detected and addressed differently and I recommend to discuss with your veterinarian which one to start hunting down first. Parasites are often ruled out with an oral medication like Simparica. Food allergy is best ruled out with a diet trial using a hydrolyzed protein. Endocrine diseases are detected with blood work. Environmental allergies are a little more difficult to detect but a response to therapy or a blood test can give an indication. The panting could be due to many things but an endocrine disease may be causing the skin issues and the panting. Once you figure out and address the underlying cause, the licking should not come back. There are a couple things you can do at home and they can help but they may not address the underlying cause. You can try adding in an omega 3 fatty acid supplement for dogs, this can help improve the skin health. You may also try changing her diet to something like Royal Canin or Nutro as they are aimed at skin health. Continue to have Pipa wear an elizabethan collar at all times. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

  

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  Answered By Sarah Box, BVSc

  Veterinarian

  Published on April 27th, 2019

  I am sorry your pet’s behavior is causing you distress!! Certainly excessive licking of fabric and people can be normal, however if this is a new behavior then I would have her checked over by your regular veterinarian. She may have something wrong with her mouth (eg dental disease). Excessive panting can be associated with a number of disease processes including cushings disease and hypothyroidism. Both of these can be diagnosed with blood work and a physical exam.

  

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