While occasional paw licking was common, constant biting and licking could signal health problems
Dogs have a lot of strange habits – as many owners will agree – but one could be a cause for concern, a vet has warned.
While occasional paw licking was common, constant biting and licking could signal health problems.
According to Amir Anwary, who regularly shares useful pet care tips on TikTok, owners should be vigilant the excessive behaviour could indicate “worrying” underlying problems.
READ MORE: Couple put up ‘shoddy homes' signs to ‘put people off' moving to Midland estate
He told his followers there were four main issues that paw licking could point to, including allergies, the Express reports.
Amir said certain foods, substances or environmental conditions could trigger allergic reactions, leading to paws becoming “extremely itchy”.
Tiny parasites could also prove pesky for pets and cause severe itching and allergic reactions.
Although ticks were often visible, Amir said they can also lead to itching and licking in dogs.
Certain mites, such as sarcoptes (mange) or demodex, could also prompt the same problem, as could fleas.
Amir said excessive paw licking could also indicate pain and discomfort.
He said cuts, scrapes, thorns or foreign objects lodged in the paws could cause four-legged friends pain, or it could be a sign of a sprain or fracture.
The behaviour was also a form of self-soothing, Amir said, adding that dogs may resort to this habit to alleviate stress, anxiety and even boredom.
However it can also evolve into a type of obsessive behaviour, even in the absence of an underlying cause, which is a potential problem that needs to be addressed.
Amir advised owners consulted with a vet if their pet had been licking its paws more than usual.
He said people should always seek professional advice whenever they were concerned about their pet's health.
