How to stop a dog from chewing its paws

Watching your dog constantly chew or lick its paws can be frustrating and even alarming. At first, it might seem like a harmless quirk or just grooming behavior.

But if your dog is obsessively chewing the same area over and over again, it’s often a sign that something is wrong — whether it's physical discomfort, allergies, parasites, or even anxiety. The key to solving this issue is understanding what’s causing it and taking action early to prevent further damage to the skin and underlying tissue.

One of the most common causes of paw chewing in dogs is allergies. Just like humans, dogs can react to things in their environment — pollen, mold, dust mites, cleaning products, or even certain foods. When these allergens trigger a response, it can cause intense itching in areas like the paws, ears, and belly.

This leads dogs to chew as a way to relieve the itch, but unfortunately, it often creates a vicious cycle: the more they chew, the more inflamed and irritated the skin becomes. In these cases, identifying the allergen and working with a veterinarian to manage it — through diet changes, medication, or avoiding certain substances — can make a significant difference.

Fleas and mites are another possible reason for persistent paw chewing. Even if you don’t see them, parasites can cause localized irritation or even allergic reactions, especially in sensitive dogs. Regular parasite prevention is essential, and a vet can help rule out infestations with a simple skin test. Sometimes, secondary infections can develop when a dog chews too much — leading to red, swollen, or smelly paws. These infections often require antibiotics or topical treatments.

But not all causes are physical. Many dogs chew their paws out of boredom or stress. This is especially common in dogs that are left alone for long periods, don’t get enough exercise, or experience anxiety when separated from their owners. In these cases, chewing becomes a self-soothing behavior — like biting your nails or pacing.

Providing more mental stimulation, regular walks, interactive toys, and quality time can help reduce this type of compulsive behavior. For dogs with deeper behavioral issues, consulting a veterinarian or professional trainer can help introduce desensitization or calming strategies.

To prevent long-term damage, it’s important to stop the cycle of chewing before it worsens. In addition to addressing the root cause, temporary measures like protective socks, bitter sprays, or an Elizabethan collar (e-collar) can physically prevent chewing while the underlying issue is treated. Just be cautious not to use these as a permanent solution without identifying what’s really driving the behavior — otherwise, it may come back once the barrier is removed.

Ultimately, if your dog is chewing its paws more than occasionally, don’t ignore it. Chronic paw licking and chewing is usually a sign of discomfort — and dogs don’t do it “just because.” The sooner you investigate, the better chance you have of resolving the issue and improving your dog’s comfort and quality of life.

References

Miller WH, Griffin CE, Campbell KL. Muller and Kirk’s Small Animal Dermatology. 7th ed. Saunders; 2013.

Olivry T, DeBoer DJ, Favrot C, et al. Treatment of canine atopic dermatitis: 2015 updated guidelines from the International Committee on Allergic Diseases of Animals (ICADA). BMC Vet Res. 2015;11:210.