Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws? The Fascinating Reason Behind This Common Behaviour

We all know that dogs lick their paws, but what's the reason behind this common behaviour? Most people would think it is to keep them clean. Of course, there are a few factors that come into play here. One of the reasons is because dogs have sweat glands in their paws and licking will help remove any dirt or debris from their pads. However, this isn't the only thing going on. Dogs also lick their paws as a response to stressors such as feeling threatened by a person or animal, or if they were recently sprayed by a skunk. If you want to learn more about why your pup might be licking his/her paw.

Why do dogs lick their paws?

1. Exercising and travelling For most dogs, walking outside will trigger their desire to go out and run around. This can be a good thing, and can help burn off energy. However, for some dogs, it is not a happy experience. When a dog is just getting ready to go on a walk, it's common for them to pull on their leash and get all excited. That excitement can cause a sudden licks to their paw pad as a way to communicate that they're a little overwhelmed. 2. Swimming Dogs who are not able to swim have a difficult time adjusting to water. If they're dropped off into a pool, it can be like a knife to the heart for the dog. For dogs who are able to swim, it's similar.

How do we know when your pup is stressed?

Dog behaviour expert, Neil Sattin, told BBC News that dogs that had received a vaccination could lick their paws as a defence mechanism to the memory of the event. "Like many other behaviours in their lives, dogs have a memory, and this memory prompts them to lick the object or person that caused them the stress," said Sattin. "This also helps relieve their feelings of anxiety." How to find out if your dog licks his/her paws To check if your dog licks its paws, you can see if their paws get moist from licking. When a person or dog walks on a moist floor, its paws will feel a little wet, and you'll be able to tell that they just passed through something that moistened their paws. You can also check to see if your dog has nervous habits, and that their paws get moist.

What kinds of triggers might cause paw-licking behaviour in dogs?

Disturbances in routine can cause paw-licking behaviour in dogs. Most often, these disruptions can be due to moving to a new home, going to daycare, or going to doggy daycare. They may also lick their paws in response to unpredictable situations, such as being given a new toy or being put in a car. Dogs also lick their paws if they're upset or stressed about a person's tone of voice. Most people don't realise that a skunk has a scent and the smell can linger in the environment for several days. Dogs also lick their paws when they're terrified by loud sounds or if they hear a cat meowing. Lastly, if a person gets extremely upset at a dog and lashes out at the dog, the dog may lick his/her paws as a way to avoid the sudden impulse to bite the person.

READ MORE:

• Dog Behaviourist : Why Do I Need One?
• Brain Training For Dogs Review 2021: The Ultimate Guide To Your Dog Training

Is there anything you can do to help reduce paw-licking behaviour?

Lets start by dispelling a common myth. Most of the time, people think that they need to punish their dogs for paw licking. However, often times, the dog is feeling stressed and is licking as a form of comfort and de-stressing from that. They are actually more comfortable if their feet are clean. Although, occasionally, some dogs lick their feet to protect themselves. For example, if they've been bitten by a skunk. Liam McVeigh via Getty Images How can you reduce paw-licking behaviour? The first thing you should do is establish rules with your dog that you need to follow. For example, don't allow your dog to eat food that is outside of their kennel. If you see that your dog is regularly licking their paws, it is best to call your vet.

Conclusion

Personally, I think dogs licking their paws is one of the cutest things in the world, and so does my dog, Freddie. So, whether it's due to cleaning, threat from a new pet, getting sprayed by a skunk, or simply being a dog, I'm sure you'll agree that licking your paw is a hilarious way to show affection.