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?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
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.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
-
Published on April 30th, 2019
Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Licking paws can be a sign of allergies. I would monitor for other signs of scratching or itching. Watch to be sure there is not swelling or signs of infection on the feet as well. Sometimes they can get infected due to moisture from licking. I hope this helps.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Why dies my dog lick her paws so much?
My puppy excessively licks at her back feet. She has lost hair and licked one paw raw causing a wound. Her sister apparently has the same issue. Is her paws just dry?
My dog nibbles his paws and apperently its most likely because of alleregies, what kind of alleregies could they be?
My dog has licked his paws and legs raw, medication helps but only for a little bit. He has huge sores that ooze and bleed, and are swollen. What is causing the pain and how can we prevent him from licking them raw?
My puppy is excessively licking his paws.
Why does my dog chew his feet?
My dog keeps licking the same spot on his left paw. It is starting to turn red from him licking. It’s has been 24 hours. I don’t see anything on it or between his toes. Should I immediately be worried or see if he stops?
My dogs been licking her foot the past few days and I’ve had a look and it doesn’t seem pleasant. She flinches when I try look at it and I’m really worried please help.
Hi my dogs keeps on licking his paws and i know that excessive licking is not a good thing..I'm just wondering maybe because of of his food (?? But not 100% sure) . He is currently taking Performatrin brand of food and thinking to switch over to Roya
I forgot to mention my dog also chews her paws and has very minimal tear staining. Is this food or environmental allergies or both? Thanks!
Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.
