Old dog licks paws – Why does that happen?

It is a well-known phenomenon: your four-legged friend obsessively licking his paws. This can happen at any age, but it is more common in older dogs. Let's dive deeper into the different causes of licking behavior in older dogs and the possible solutions.

Causes of licking behavior in older dogs

The causes of licking behavior in older dogs are very different. Below we discuss the three main categories.

1. Medical problems

Joint problems : Osteoarthritis is a common condition in older dogs that can cause pain and inflammation in the joints. This may lead to licking the paws in an attempt to relieve the pain.
Skin issues : Allergies, infections, parasites, or dry skin can cause itching and irritation, which can lead to licking.
Painful Conditions : Gum disease, ear infections, or other painful conditions can cause dogs to lick their paws as a distraction.
Medications: Some medications can have side effects that cause itching or irritation, which may lead to licking.

2. Behavioral problems

Boredom or anxiety : Older dogs that don't get enough mental or physical stimulation may start licking their paws out of boredom or anxiety.
Compulsive behavior : In rare cases, excessive licking can be obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

3. Environmental factors

Change in environment : Moving, new pets, or other changes in the environment can cause stress in dogs, which can lead to licking.
Long walks on hard surfaces : This can cause irritation to the soles of the feet, which can lead to licking.

What to do if your old dog licks his paws

If you notice that your older dog is constantly licking his paws, there are several steps you can take to help him. Here are some practical tips.

Keep your dog active and busy

A dog that is physically and mentally stimulated is a happy dog. This is especially important for older dogs, who are more prone to boredom and anxiety. Keeping your dog active can reduce licking and other problem behaviors. Here are some tips to keep your dog active and occupied:

Exercise:

Short walks : Older dogs may no longer have the energy for long walks, but short walks are still important to keep their bodies moving.
Swimming : Swimming is a great way to get your dog exercise without putting stress on his joints.
Playing in the garden : Let your dog run, jump and play in the garden.
Play fetch : This is a fun and simple way to get your dog moving.

Mental stimulation:

Interactive toys : Interactive toys stimulate your dog's brain and help him avoid boredom.
Puzzles : Puzzles are a fun way to get your dog to work for his food.
Teach your dog new tricks : This is a fun way to train your dog and stimulate his mind.
Play hide and seek : This is a fun way to get your dog thinking and moving.

Avoid stress

Stress has a major impact on your dog's well-being. It causes several problems over time, including licking behavior, anxiety, aggression and loss of appetite. Here are some tips to reduce stress in your dog:

A quiet place:

Provide a quiet place in the house where your dog can retreat. This can be a crate, a room with few stimuli or a special dog bed.
Make sure the area is comfortable and that your dog can rest undisturbed.

Maintain regular routines:

Dogs like regularity . Try to keep their daily rhythm the same as much as possible. This gives them a feeling of security and comfort.
Feed your dog at set times , take them for walks at set times and interact with them in the same way.

Avoid stressful situations:

Try to avoid stressful situations for your dog . This may mean not taking them to crowded places or not leaving them alone at home.
If your dog gets into a stressful situation, try to calm him down by petting him, talking to him, or giving him a favorite toy.

Provide comfort

Try to make your dog's environment more comfortable. Think of a soft bed, enough rest and warmth. This is how it helps reduce paw licking:

Soft bed : A soft bed is comfortable and supportive of your dog's joints, especially if he is older or suffers from arthritis. This can make your dog feel more relaxed and less stressed, reducing the need to lick his paws.
Sufficient rest : Just like humans, dogs need rest to recover and relax. If your dog gets enough rest, he will be calmer and more at ease, which can reduce the urge to lick his paws as a form of self-soothing.
Heat : A warm environment can calm your dog. Heat can help relax muscles and relieve pain, especially useful for older dogs with joint problems. Heat makes your dog feel more comfortable, which can help reduce stress-related licking behavior.

Comfort and safety make dogs stress-free

Treat skin problems

Skin problems, such as allergies, infections, parasites or dry skin, can cause itching, pain or irritation on your dog's paws. This can lead to excessive licking. Treating the underlying skin problems can reduce or even eliminate your dog's licking behavior.

Give your old dog probiotics to prevent licking

Stop licking your old dog's paws with Dogsuppy's Anti-Itch & Paw Licking Probiotics and Anti-Itch Spray ! Our probiotics provide natural relief from within, while the spray provides instant relief for irritated skin. With powerful ingredients such as quercetin, colostrum and medicinal herbs, our products reduce itching and repair the skin. Give your dog the relief he deserves and enjoy a happier, healthier life together!