Dogs naturally lick their paws to clean or soothe themselves, but over-licking can cause issues. Constant licking is also one of the causes whether due to allergies, infections or even anxiety it will get farther and make things worse.
This post will break down natural, home remedies for your dog’s itchy paws with which you do more harm than good and how to get relief without ever leaving the house. Well, whatever the reasons are most common in dogs and what you can do for their betterment.
Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws?
Dogs may lick their paws for a variety of reasons, from boredom to discomfort. Common causes include allergies, dry skin or infections. Sometimes, it’s behavioral, where dogs lick due to stress or anxiety.
It’s important to observe when the licking happens to determine the cause. Is it after a walk? During stressful situations? Identifying the trigger helps you decide which remedy or action to take to stop the licking.
5 Best Home Remedies to Stop Dog from Licking Paws at Night
While occasional licking is normal, excessive licking can indicate underlying issues such as allergies, dry skin or infections. There are several home remedies that can help soothe your dog’s paws and curb their licking habit.
1. Oatmeal Bath
Oatmeal is not just a wholesome breakfast option for humans; it’s a soothing remedy for your dog’s itchy paws too. Mix some oatmeal with water to create a paste, then apply it to your dog’s paws. This natural treatment helps alleviate itching and irritation.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a staple in many homes due to its antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. Dilute it with water and gently apply it to your dog’s paws. This concoction can help in treating minor skin infections and soothing inflamed areas.
3. Coconut Oil
Renowned for its moisturizing properties, coconut oil can be a game-changer for dry, cracked paws. Apply a small amount to your dog’s paws to keep the skin hydrated and reduce itching.
4. Green Tea Paw Soak
Green tea is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Prepare a cool tea bath and let your dog’s paws soak in it. This can provide relief from inflammation and itching, leaving their paws feeling fresh and comfortable.
5. Paw Booties
Sometimes, prevention is better than cure. Using paw booties can protect your dog’s paws from injuries and contaminants that might cause them to lick excessively. These booties serve as a barrier, giving the paws time to heal.
How Baking Soda Can Stop Dog Licking
Baking soda is actually a great natural anti-inflammatory. It can reduce inflammation and itchiness, which stops a dog from licking itself more.
Set up a paste with water and baking soda, then put it on the paw. Keep it on for 10 minutes then wash off with cold water. You can use baking soda to calm her skin and relieve discomfort the moment that you notice she has red paws from wearing them in boots.
Why Does My Dog Keep Licking Its Sore Paw?
If your dog is licking a sore or injured paw, it’s essential to first clean the area. Clean any dirt or bacteria out by using a mild antiseptic.
Once clean, administer an antibiotic ointment and bandage the paw to prevent any licking If your dog licks its foot through the bandage, put an e-collar (cone) on. This will prevent the paw from your dog, until it is cured
How Can I Prevent My Dog from Licking His Paws?
Some natural supplements that you can add to your dog´s food in order to improve its skin health and stop licking. One of the best treatments for lowering inflammation is omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish oil.
You can even off probiotics to your dog which is an incredible and proficient approach to help with skin issues that come because of sensitivities. Over time these will work to lessen the root causes of paw licking.
Best Spray to Stop Dog Licking Paws
There are several natural sprays you can buy or make at home to discourage your dog from licking their paws. One effective option is a bitter apple spray. This spray has a taste that dogs dislike, so applying it to their paws can discourage them from licking.
Another option is a calendula-based spray, which has soothing properties and helps with skin healing. Make sure the spray is safe and non-toxic for your dog.
Using Vinegar to Stop Dog Licking
Vinegar, especially apple cider vinegar, can help stop your dog from licking their paws by treating infections and reducing itching. You can dilute apple cider vinegar with water and apply it to your dog’s paws using a spray bottle.
It’s important to make sure there are no open wounds before applying, as the vinegar can sting. If your dog’s licking is due to a fungal infection, vinegar is an effective remedy that can prevent further licking.
Home Remedies for Nighttime Paw Chewing
If your dog chews on their paws more at night, it might be due to anxiety or allergies.
- One simple remedy is to apply lavender oil. Lavender has calming properties and can soothe anxiety, reducing the need to chew.
- Make sure to dilute the oil before applying it to your dog’s paws. Another helpful trick is using cucumber slices. Cucumber is soothing, and giving your dog a slice to chew on can distract them from licking their paws.
How to Train Your Dog to Stop Licking Our Paws?
This will might take some time, however is the most effective overall way to stop dog paw licking. Does this by distracting them with a toy or treat when they start licking.
When they stop, praise the dog using reward to break the habit. You do need to be consistent however – interrupt the behavior every time and reward your dog for doing what you want him to
Your Dog Licks His Paws After a Walk?
Paw licking may be a result of irritants such as dirt, salt or grass that has been stuck in-between the paws. This can be avoided by washing your dog’s paws with water after each walk. This will remove any irritants or allergens that can cause your skin to be itchy.
After each cleaning, make sure the paws are completely dry and apply a doggie paw moisturizer. Frequent examination and scrubbing of your dog’s paws will keep it from getting irritated which minimizes the need to lick.
FAQ’s
What can I give my dog to stop licking his paws?
Omega-3 supplements and probiotics can help reduce paw licking by improving skin health.
How do I train my dog not to lick his paws?
Use distraction techniques like toys or treats, and reinforce good behavior with praise.
Can apple cider vinegar stop dogs from licking their paws?
Yes, diluted apple cider vinegar can relieve itching and treat infections, reducing the urge to lick.
What spray can I use to stop my dog from licking his paws?
Bitter apple or calendula-based sprays can discourage paw licking without harming your dog
Why does my dog lick his paws excessively?
Excessive licking is often due to allergies, infections or anxiety, so it’s important to find the underlying cause.
Conclusion
Dogs will often lick their paws, it is normal however, when licking goes from becoming a little annoying to being excessive than this can become an issue and should be addressed before skin issues develop. The first thing you will want to do is determine why your dog barks at other dogs and then treat that.
This holistic dog remedies can be done through natural balms, essential oils or managing stress can help to stop the licking bug and get rid of those cones. Heads for good thus letting your dog jump back in happiness. Following these remedies and tips will help maintain your dog paw health, which should keep him or her happy and comfortable.