11 Remedies to Stop Your Dog Licking Their Paws

Shell & Katy Pretty Fluffy Editors

Shell & Katy are two style-savvy dog mums celebrating the best in pet-friendly living. A pet photographer and dog lifestyle writer, together they share trending pet products, recipes, inspiration and expert tips with discerning dog lovers around the world.

Is the sound of your dog incessantly licking their paws becoming all too familiar? If your dog won’t stop licking or chewing their paws, don’t worry – we’ve got a list of solutions for this common behaviour!

Excessive paw licking and chewing can stem from various underlying issues, but identifying the root cause of paw licking is the first step toward finding a remedy that works for your dog.

Here we’ll explore a range of effective solutions to help curb this habit, including natural home remedies to stop paw licking if you prefer an all-natural approach.

Why Dogs Lick Their Paws: Common Causes Explained

That repetitive sound of licking can get on your nerves after a while, especially when your dog seems fixated on their paws. Most of the time, there’s a reason behind it. Some are harmless, others point to irritation or discomfort that needs attention. Knowing what’s going on underneath all that licking can help you step in before it turns into a bigger problem.

Normal Cleaning or Grooming

A bit of paw licking is simply part of a dog’s day. They use their tongues to clean off dirt or salt after being outside. If it’s brief and their paws look normal, it’s probably nothing to worry about. Wiping their paws after a walk helps keep things tidy and can stop casual cleaning from becoming an everyday habit.

Minor Injuries or Foreign Objects

When licking becomes focused on one paw, something small might be bothering them. A splinter, a scratch from a stick, or even a small pebble stuck between the pads can do it. Have a good look under bright light and check between the toes. If you spot a wound, rinse it with saline and let it dry completely. Swelling or limping means it’s time for a vet visit.

Allergies

Dogs can be allergic to almost anything: grass, pollen, dust, cleaning products, and even their food. The paws are often where those allergies show up first. If licking seems worse after outdoor walks or at certain times of the year, it could be environmental. Year-round itching might point to diet. Wiping paws after walks and noting when the problem flares can help your vet work out what’s causing it.

Parasites

Fleas, mites, and ticks can turn a calm dog into one that won’t stop scratching or licking. Even a small number of pests can cause a big reaction. If you notice redness or missing fur around the toes, it’s worth checking for signs of parasites. Regular prevention treatments do most of the heavy lifting here. If you’re already using one and your dog is still itchy, your vet can check for mites or other skin conditions that need specific treatment.

Fungal or Bacterial Infections

A sour smell (often called Frito feet in dogs), red skin, or darkened areas between the toes can signal infection. Yeast and bacteria thrive in damp spots, and once your dog starts licking, it keeps the area moist — a perfect cycle for things to grow. Drying paws carefully after walks helps. If the skin looks swollen or sticky, a vet can prescribe wipes or shampoo to clear it up.

Arthritis or Joint Pain

Sometimes the problem isn’t the paw itself. Older dogs often lick near joints that ache. It’s their way of easing the discomfort. They might slow down a little, avoid jumping, or seem stiff when getting up. If that sounds familiar, your vet can check for arthritis and discuss pain management. Softer bedding and gentle movement help more than you might think.

Habitual or Stress-Related Licking

When licking becomes a go-to behavior, there’s usually a mental side to it. Some dogs lick because they’re bored, anxious, or unsettled. Over time, the skin breaks down and creates a sore spot that makes them lick even more. More activity, enrichment toys, or even a change in routine can help break that loop. Once there’s an open sore, though, it needs medical care to heal properly.

Moisture-Related Irritation

Wet paws stay soft for too long, and that can make the skin sore. Dogs that swim often or go out in the rain might lick afterwards simply because it itches. Drying the spaces between the toes really helps. If the skin starts to smell or darken, that’s usually a sign it needs treatment.

Contact Irritants

Sometimes the issue is what your dog is walking on. Road salt, lawn sprays, or even cleaning residue on floors can sting or dry out their skin. Rinsing their paws after a walk can prevent irritation before it starts. Pet-safe cleaners and ice melts are also worth switching to if paw licking has become a routine problem.

Hormonal or Internal Health Issues

Occasionally, there’s something deeper going on. Conditions like low thyroid hormone or Cushing’s disease can change how a dog’s skin behaves, leading to dryness and itchiness. If your dog’s licking comes with hair loss, weight changes, or low energy, your vet may want to run a few tests. Once the underlying issue is treated, the licking usually settles down.

Dog Licking Their Paws? 11 Remedies to Try

Medicated dog shampoos & topical treatments

If your dog is licking their paws due to allergies or bacterial infections, topical treatments such as sprays or creams containing hydrocortisone, or medicated dog shampoos such as Pet Honesty’s Chlorhexidine in the U.S can be effective in restoring a healthy balance of organisms on your dog’s skin.

Allergies can be difficult to diagnose and treat however, so it’s best to talk to your vet to identify the source of your dog’s allergy and prescribe the best treatment plan. 

Change their diet

Excessive paw licking can be caused by the over-production of yeast in your dog’s body.

A common cause of yeast infections are food-related allergies. So it might be time to look closely at your dog’s diet and speak to your vet about the best course of action, such as switching to a raw dog food diet or a brand of anallergenic kibble.

TIP: If your dog suffers from food allergies, we highly recommend Royal Canin Anallergenic Dry Food. Our cocker spaniel, Ziggy, experienced frequent yeast infections for years before switching to this diet which helped to resolve his allergies. Always consult with your vet before changing your dog’s diet. 

Bathing & paw balms

If your dog’s paws are dry and cracked, a daily bath will help to soothe and soften their skin. You can try a pet-formulated, high-quality dog shampoo or a gentle baby shampoo.

After bathing your dog, be sure to dry their paws thoroughly to help prevent cracking and infection, particularly between the toes. Once your pup is dry, apply a soothing natural paw balm to lock in the moisture.

Boredom busters & exercise 

If your dog is licking their paws because they are bored or anxious, it’s likely they need more mental stimulation and exercise to alleviate this behaviour. Compulsive behaviours like biting, chewing, or paw licking can sometimes stem from fear, stress, or lack of stimulation. To help prevent these issues, ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise, attention, and love.

Walking your dog for at least 30 minutes every day, or trying these dog enrichment ideas when they are left alone, will go a long way in easing their anxieties and keeping them happy and occupied.

Training your dog to focus on chewing toys or bones can also provide a positive outlet for stress, which can help to curb unwanted chewing or paw licking habits.

Eliminate parasites 

If your dog is licking their paws due to a tick or parasite, there are several flea and tick products that your veterinarian can suggest.

To further address the issue, it’s essential to regularly wash your dog’s bedding and vacuum your carpets and upholstered furniture to minimise the risk of re-infestation. Don’t forget to treat any other pets in your home as well!

Try a bandage or socks

A simple remedy to stop your dog from licking its paw is by fitting a bandage or sock.

It may take a little patience, but if you cover your dog’s paw with a light bandage and let them wear it for a few days, you may find that your dog will stop licking their paw.

For some dogs, bandaging their paw is enough to prevent them from licking – out of sight, out of mind after all! 

Natural Home Remedies to Stop Paw Licking

If you would prefer to try a natural home remedy to relieve the itch and irritation behind your dog’s paw licking, the following all-natural solutions can be effective, depending on the root cause of your dog’s constant licking:

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile is well-known for its soothing anti-inflammatory properties, so it’s no wonder it’s an effective natural home remedy to relieve your dog’s paw licking too. Plus, its antimicrobial qualities can help to prevent infections that can potentially arise from excessive scratching.

There are a few ways chamomile tea can be used to alleviate the itch that is causing your dog to lick their paws – a chilled tea compress, bath soak or spray.

Oatmeal bath

An oatmeal bath can offer quick relief for an itchy dog. Thanks to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, oatmeal serves as an effective natural treatment for your pup’s scratching.

Just grind plain oatmeal into a fine powder, add it to a warm bath, and allow your dog to soak for 15-20 minutes. This soothing soak will help calm irritated skin and ease your dog’s itching.

Apple Cider Vinegar

‘Can I put vinegar on my dog’s paw to stop their licking?’ is a common question pet parents ask.

The answer is yes, diluted apple cider vinegar can be an effective home remedy to stop your dog licking their paws. Just remember to avoid applying it directly on any broken skin, as it may sting and cause discomfort. It’s also important not to apply vinegar near your dog’s ears, eyes, or genital area.

For a gentle application, mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then lightly mist your dog’s paws.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil isn’t just a trendy ingredient for us humans – it’s also a great solution for dogs!

With its moisturising and soothing qualities, applying coconut oil to your dog’s paws can effectively ease dryness and itching, and ultimately the constant paw licking. Plus, it helps keep their coat looking shiny and healthy.

Be sure to use virgin, unrefined coconut oil, and start with a small amount to gauge how your dog’s skin reacts. You can also incorporate coconut oil into your pup’s diet with these homemade dog treats.

Baking soda

Yes, this common kitchen ingredient is actually a natural anti-inflammatory and acid neutraliser that can help alleviate your dog’s irritated paws and skin.

Simply mix 1/2 cup (120 ml) of baking soda into a bucket of warm water and let your dog soak their paws for 10 minutes. For best results, repeat this process 2 to 3 times daily.

To keep your pup occupied during the soak, consider giving them some dog treats. If your dog is larger or more energetic, you can soak their paws in a bathtub, and don’t hesitate to double the baking soda mixture if needed.

When to be concerned about paw licking

If your dog can’t stop licking their paws and you’re worried it might point to a more serious issue, here’s a list of warning signs to watch out for:

• Lick granulomas: a persistent skin condition triggered by constant paw licking
• Limping: this could indicate something stuck in their paw, like a grass seed
• Red paws: redness and irritation between the toes or pads
• Bleeding: licking paws to the point of bleeding is a red flag
• Visible signs of injury or infection

If your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s best to schedule a vet visit right away.

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