6 Effective Home Remedies To Stop Dogs From Licking Paws

Is your furry friend constantly licking its paws? If the answer is Yes, you must do something to relieve your little friend.

Excessive paw licking can indicate underlying issues, such as allergies, infections, or anxiety. Fortunately, several effective home remedies can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

We'll explore the common causes of paw licking and discuss natural remedies to cure and prevent them. Understanding the root cause and implementing these simple solutions can help your dog feel better and live a happier, healthier life.

Let's discuss how to stop your dog from licking its paws using home remedies and give your dog the relief it deserves.

Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws

Excessive paw licking in dogs can be frustrating and concerning. To address this issue effectively, it's crucial to identify the underlying common causes.

Several common factors can trigger this behaviour in your dog:

Allergies: Dogs can develop allergies to various substances, including pollen, dust mites, and certain foods. Allergic reactions can cause skin irritation and inflammation, leading to excessive licking.

Skin Infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can affect the paws, causing redness, itchiness, and discomfort. Dogs may lick their paws to alleviate these symptoms.

Anxiety or Boredom: When anxious or bored, dogs may engage in repetitive behaviours, such as licking their paws. This can be a way for them to self-soothe or relieve stress.

Injury or Pain: If your dog has injured their paw or is experiencing pain, they may lick the affected area to soothe it.

Once you understand the root cause of your dog's paw licking, you can tailor a treatment plan to address the specific issue. Identifying the cause also helps prevent future occurrences. The paw licking may persist or worsen if the underlying problem is not resolved.

Home Remedies for Dog’s Paw Licking

Here are some home remedies for your dog's paw-licking behaviour:

Apple Cider Vinegar: A Natural Solution

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a versatile natural remedy with numerous benefits for humans and pets. Its acidic properties help maintain a balanced pH level on the skin, which can benefit dogs with skin irritations or allergies.

Moreover, ACV has antimicrobial and antifungal properties that can help combat infections and reduce inflammation.

Here is how to use apple cider vinegar:

1. Apple Cider Vinegar Soak

Fill a small tub or basin with lukewarm water.

Add 1-2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar.

Gently soak your dog's paws for 10-15 minutes.

Dry their paws thoroughly with a clean towel.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar Spray

Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

Shake well to combine.

Spray the solution directly onto your dog's paws, avoiding their eyes and mouth.

Allow the solution to air dry.

Note: Always dilute apple cider vinegar before applying it to your dog's skin. Undiluted vinegar can irritate their skin.

Epsom Salt: A Natural Remedy for Paw Licking

Epsom salt, a mineral compound of magnesium sulfate, offers numerous benefits. Its key properties include:

Muscle relaxation: Magnesium, a primary component of Epsom salt, can help relax muscles and reduce inflammation.

Pain relief: It can ease discomfort and soothe irritated skin.

Skin healing: Epsom salt can draw out toxins and promote skin healing.

These properties make it an excellent home remedy for dogs with excessive paw licking.

Here is how to use Epsom salt for paw licking:

1. Epsom Salt Foot Soak

Soaking your dog's paws in warm Epsom salt water can help reduce inflammation, soothe irritation, and promote healing.

Here's how to:

Fill a small tub or basin with warm water and add 1-2 cups of Epsom salt.

Place your dog's paws into the solution and allow them to soak for 10-15 minutes.

Remove your dog's paws from the soak and dry them gently with a soft towel.

2. Epsom Salt Compress

Applying a warm Epsom salt compress to your dog's paws can help reduce swelling and pain.

How to use:

Mix 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt with 1 cup of warm water.

Dip a clean cloth into the solution and wring out the excess liquid.

Apply the warm compress to your dog's paws for 10-15 minutes.

Repeat this process 2-3 times a day.

Chamomile Tea: An Ancient Herb that Soothe Inflamed Paws

Chamomile tea is a popular natural remedy known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. These qualities make it an excellent choice for soothing irritated paws and reducing inflammation.

Some other benefits are:

Calming: Chamomile's soothing properties can help reduce anxiety and stress, possibly contributing to excessive paw licking.

Anti-inflammatory: It can help alleviate inflammation and redness associated with skin irritations.

Antiseptic: Chamomile has mild antiseptic properties that can help prevent infection.

Here are its uses:

1. Chamomile Tea Soak

Steep 2-3 chamomile tea bags in a bowl of hot water for 10-15 minutes.

Allow the tea to cool to a lukewarm temperature.

Gently immerse your dog's paws in the chamomile tea for 10-15 minutes.

Dry their paws with a soft towel.

Repeat this soak 2-3 times a week.

2. Chamomile Compress

A compress allows for direct application of the chamomile tea to specific areas of irritation. The warm compress can help relax your dog and reduce inflammation.

Here is how to make it:

Prepare a strong cup of chamomile tea.

Dip a clean cloth into the warm tea and wring out excess liquid.

Apply the warm compress to your dog's paws for 10-15 minutes.

Coconut Oil: A Natural Moisturizer That "Nourishes Paw Pads"

Coconut oil is a versatile natural remedy with numerous benefits for dogs, including soothing irritated paws. It contains lauric acid, a fatty acid with antimicrobial and antifungal properties. This makes it an excellent choice for treating skin conditions and reducing inflammation.

1. Topical Coconut Oil Application

Direct Application: Lightly massage a small amount of coconut oil directly onto your dog's paws. This can help moisturize dry, cracked skin and reduce itching.

Paw Soak: Add a tablespoon of coconut oil to a warm water bath and soak your dog's paws for 10-15 minutes. This can help soften the skin and alleviate discomfort.

2. Dietary Coconut Oil Supplement

You can incorporate coconut oil into your dog's diet for internal benefits.

Here is how you can add coconut oil to your dog's diet:

Start Slowly: Add a small amount of coconut oil to your dog's food, gradually increasing the dosage over a few days.

Recommended Dosage: A general guideline is 1 teaspoon of coconut oil per 10 pounds of body weight once or twice daily.

Monitor Your Dog's Response: Watch for digestive upset, such as diarrhoea. If issues arise, reduce the amount of coconut oil or consult your veterinarian.

Baking Soda: A Natural Soother that "Neutralizes Paw Irritants"

Baking soda is a versatile household item with numerous benefits. Its alkaline properties help neutralize acids and reduce inflammation, making it an effective remedy for various skin conditions, including irritated paws.

Some of more benefits of baking soda for dog paw licking  are:

Soothes irritated skin

Reduces inflammation

Absorbs moisture

Relieves itching and irritation

Softens paw pads

Uses of baking soda for paw licking are:

1. Baking Soda Paste

Mix the baking soda and water to form a smooth paste.

Apply the paste to your dog's affected paws, avoiding open wounds.

Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water.

2. Baking Soda Foot Soak

Fill the tub or basin with warm water.

Add the baking soda and stir until it dissolves.

Gently place your dog's paws in the solution and let them soak for 10-15 minutes.

Rinse their paws with clean water and dry them thoroughly with a soft towel.

Oatmeal: A Natural Ingredient that Soothes the Paws

Oatmeal has numerous health benefits for dogs, too. Its unique properties make it an excellent natural remedy for soothing irritated paws.

The benefits of Oatmeal are:

Soothing: Oatmeal contains compounds that can help calm inflammation and irritation.

Moisturizing: It can help hydrate dry, cracked skin.

Anti-inflammatory: Oatmeal can reduce redness and swelling.

Here is how you can use Oatmeal for paw licking:

1. Oatmeal Bath

Boil a cup of oatmeal in four cups of water.

Let the mixture cool completely.

Strain the liquid to remove the oatmeal particles.

Gently bathe your dog in the oatmeal-infused water, paying particular attention to their paws.

Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Dry your dog with a soft towel.

2. Oatmeal Paste

Mix a small amount of cooked oatmeal with water to form a paste.

Apply the paste directly to your dog's paws.

Leave the paste on for 10-15 minutes. Gently wipe it off with a damp cloth.

Tips for Using Oatmeal

1. Avoid raw oatmeal. Raw oatmeal can irritate your dog's skin.

2. Before applying oatmeal to your dog's entire body, test it on a small area to check for any adverse reactions.

Stop Dogs From Licking Paws!

Understanding the root causes of your dog's paw licking and implementing these home remedies can significantly improve their comfort and overall well-being. However, remember, consistent care and attention are crucial to preventing future issues.

If your dog's paw licking persists or worsens, don't hesitate to consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Share your experiences and tips in the comments below to help other pet owners. Let's create a supportive community for dog lovers!