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Why does my puppy excessively lick paws? Allergies, behavior, or chicken?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 11 months and 16 days old | 7 lbs

What would be considered an excessive licker? My pup is almost 1 y/o. in August the vet stated it was seasonal allergies considering the affected area was his paws. He will scratch himself but not as often as licking. I feel that his licking is more behavoral. His meals/treats mainly contains chicken. Is it common to have an allergy to chicken?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 7th, 2020

The most common allergy is environmental. Only 10% of dogs with allergies have a food allergy, but a protein allergy like chicken is one of the most common. I'd consider licking excessive if Kai's paws are stained from licking them and he does it a lot of the time.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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