Spring and Summer are the seasons when we typically see more chewing and licking of paws in dogs. In no particular order, the most common causes of dog paw-licking or chewing are:

1. ENVIRONMENTAL ALLERGENS
   Pollens and house dust allergies are very common in Alberta. Dogs with allergies may also rub their faces and anal area because they are itchy. These dogs need to be seen by a veterinarian as they may have a bacterial infection that can worsen the itch. Treatment can include: intradermal skin testing to identify what the dog is allergic to, and injections of serum containing the allergen to try to desensitize them, diet changes to increase the omega fatty acid concentration and other skin friendly nutrients, topical treatments to improve the condition of the skin, shampoos, steroids, or Apoquel. This is an itch treatment that has recently been introduced to the Canadian market and so far, it has been very helpful for patients with itch that has been difficult to control with other treatments.
2. FOOD ALLERGIES
   Dogs can to develop a food allergy to anything at any stage of life, even if they have been on the same food their whole life. The protein in the food is usually the offender. If you notice your dog has started chewing or licking her paws after you changed her food, change back to the previous food and see if the itch resolves. Keep in mind that food-allergic patients may continue to react up to 12 weeks later. Some “hypoallergenic” pet store diets may help mildly-affected dogs, but studies have shown that all pet store foods are cross-contaminated with other proteins. Veterinary diets will have stricter controls on cross-contamination and are the gold standard for food elimination trials. When performing a food elimination trial, feed only the food recommended by your veterinarian and water and nothing else. The smallest morsel of any food, treat, table food can cause the reaction to continue.
3. FOREIGN OBJECTS
   Often, something can become stuck between their toes causing dogs to start chewing or licking their paws to try to remove it. Look between their toes to see if there are any obvious objects or matting of hair, and remove it. If there is any redness or swelling of the skin, they should be seen by your veterinarian.
4. BROKEN NAILS
   Even small nail injuries can cause dog paw problems. Broken nails can be quite painful and should be seen by your veterinarian for assessment. If the Quick is exposed, it can lead to a deeper infection of the nail bed. Sometimes the nail is broken because of an underlying cancer.
5. TOO-LONG NAILS
   A “bad manicure” will also often cause dogs to start licking or chewing on their paws. Unless your dog is running on the cement regularly, most dogs need their nails trimmed every 4-6 weeks. If you are afraid to do this, take them to someone who can help you with this such as a groomer or veterinarian.

If you have any a dog that is licking and chewing their paws or displaying any other symptoms of sickness and you would like more information, pleasecontact usnow. We are happy to answer your questions.

Yours in health,

Dr. Kent Morley