Most dogs will occasionally chew their paws—maybe something felt itchy for a second, or something got stuck. Occasional paw licking is part of normal grooming and usually nothing to worry about. But when chewing becomes frequent, loud, or obsessive, it might point to a bigger issue like itchy paws, pain, stress, a skin infection, or even food allergies.
Because dogs don’t have hands as we do, they rely on their mouths to soothe irritation. When chewing doesn’t provide relief or becomes a habit, they may develop inflamed skin, swelling, or secondary infections. It's why it’s so important to understand what’s behind your dog’s behavior and address the root cause early on.
Key Takeaways
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Occasional paw chewing or licking is normal, but excessive chewing, biting, or licking can indicate allergies, infections, pain, or anxiety.
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Dogs rely on their mouths to relieve irritation, so repeated paw chewing may lead to inflamed skin, hair loss, or secondary infections.
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Environmental factors, parasites, and food allergies can all trigger paw chewing; addressing the root cause early helps prevent chronic issues.
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Behavioral triggers like stress, boredom, or separation anxiety may cause paw chewing as a self-soothing behavior, which can be mitigated through mental stimulation and training.
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Maintaining paw hygiene, using protective solutions like Gotta Go Grass, and seeking veterinary care when needed keep paws healthy and comfortable.
Is It Normal for a Dog to Bite Their Paws?
We scratch an itch without thinking. Dogs simply chew their paws to do the same thing. So, yes. Picking at their paws once in a while is perfectly normal. But it becomes concerning when the chewing is constant, painful to watch, or leads to red skin, wounds, or hair loss. Sometimes, no matter how much they chew, the itch won’t go away—a frustrating cycle that can turn into chronic skin disease if ignored.
Dogs may also chew more when they’re bored or anxious. An upset routine, lack of stimulation, or too much alone time can push anxious dogs to use paw chewing as a self-soothing behavior. If you’re unsure why it’s happening or if the behavior seems to be escalating, it’s always smart to ask your vet for guidance. They can help determine the root cause and recommend the right treatment plan.
Why Do Dogs Bite Their Paws: 7 Common Reasons
When dogs chew their paws excessively, it can be stressful for both you and your pet. The sound alone can be irritating, and seeing them uncomfortable is even worse. Here are the most common reasons behind the behavior:
Allergies and Skin Infections
Allergic itch is one of the most common reasons dogs chew their paws. Environmental triggers like pollen and grass, food sensitivities to ingredients such as chicken or wheat, and even a single flea bite can set off intense irritation. When dogs chew to relieve that itch, the moisture and broken skin can lead to bacterial or yeast infections between the toes.
You might notice redness, dark discharge, a musty or foul odor, limping, or a sudden dislike of having their paws handled. Since some allergies strike seasonally and others persist year-round, a vet may recommend allergy testing, a prescription diet, medicated treatments, or soothing topicals to calm irritated paws and prevent infections from returning.
Dry Skin and Weather Irritation
Shifts in weather—particularly very dry or cold days—can zap moisture from paw pads. Rough, flaky skin becomes tender, and chewing feels like the only relief from the intense itching. Walking on hot pavement or chemical-treated lawns can worsen the irritation. If your dog suddenly refuses walks or favors a paw, it’s worth checking for cracking or redness as a possible cause.
Parasites
Fleas, ticks, and mites don’t just target a dog’s back; they also love to hide between toes. When they bite, they leave behind irritation or even pain. Some dogs are hypersensitive to flea saliva, which leads to immediate excessive paw chewing and the potential for secondary infections. If you see swollen toes or your dog fixating on one foot, parasites may be the culprit.
Pain or Paw Injuries
A dog can’t tell us when their feet hurt, so they chew instead. A tiny cut, debris from the yard, overgrown nails, or even chemical burns from outdoor surfaces can trigger persistent chewing as they try to remove or relieve the irritation. Older dogs dealing with arthritis may also chew their paws when joints ache. Pain is a major reason to schedule a vet visit, since pain medications and proper care can provide quick relief.
Anxiety, Boredom & Stress
Some anxious dogs chew to cope with overwhelming emotions, kind of like humans biting nails. A change in routine, too much time alone, or general nervousness can turn paw chewing into a comfort habit. Rather than punishment, anxious biters need enrichment, consistency, and reassurance to break the cycle and feel safe again.
Immune or Neurological Issues
Although less common, chronic chewing can sometimes point to nerve problems, autoimmune skin disease, or a weakened immune system. If chewing escalates fast or appears alongside puzzling other symptoms, it’s important to involve a vet early to rule out complex conditions.
Dog Biting Paws: When to Worry
While occasional paw licking is harmless, excessive chewing is a red flag. When chewing results in sore spots, bald patches, open wounds, or constant discomfort, don’t wait to get help. Worsening inflammation or a new limp suggests a medical issue like a paw injury or deep infection that requires veterinary treatment.
If you spot changes in their comfort level, activity, or paw appearance — especially if combined with constant scratching or extreme licking — prompt care prevents long-term damage.
How to Stop a Dog From Biting Their Paws
Because the cause determines the solution, the first step is ruling out medical issues with a vet visit. Once you know what’s driving the behavior, you can focus on breaking the chewing habit.
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Many dogs respond well to redirection—puzzle feeders, durable chew toys, and treat-dispensing balls keep their mouths busy and their minds occupied.
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Teaching new tricks or short training sessions can also channel nervous energy into something positive and fun.
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Good paw hygiene matters too: keep nails trimmed, clean between the toes, and wipe paws after walks to remove irritants
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In some cases, booties or cones prevent chewing long enough for paws to fully recover.
How to Treat Itchy Paws
Always check with your vet before trying new remedies, particularly if there are open sores. Here’s what may help:
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Vet-Approved Antihistamines provide relief for allergic itch by calming the histamine response and reducing excessive licking or chewing.
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Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse can soothe irritated paws when diluted 50/50 with water and applied for 5–10 minutes. Remember that it should never be used on cracked or open wounds.
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Paw Balms help protect paws from weather irritation, soothe dry pads, and provide a barrier against rough or abrasive surfaces.
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Omega-3 Supplements support overall skin health and help reduce inflammation from the inside out.
Additionally, dietary improvements can make a big difference if food allergies are suspected. Your vet may recommend a hypoallergenic formulation, a limited-ingredient diet, or an elimination trial. Many dogs show noticeable improvement in skin and paw comfort within six to eight weeks.
There are many great hypoallergenic dog foods on the market that use alternative ingredients, such as potato or lamb. You may also want to try a raw food diet, which is free from all potential allergens.
How to Calm an Anxious Biter
Dogs who chew from anxiety need structure, confidence-building, and mental stimulation. More walks, interactive play, and positive training sessions can channel nervous energy into something healthy. As they start to feel safer and more engaged, the urge to chew typically begins to fade. Avoid reacting with anger, which can only heighten their stress and intensify the behavior you’re trying to stop
When to Take Your Dog to the Vet
Trust your instincts. If chewing continues nonstop, causes pain, or creates open wounds, professional care is essential. A vet can determine the root cause, whether that’s allergies, bacterial infections, or injuries, and provide relief through topical medications, antibiotics, or pain medications when needed. Early intervention keeps a small skin irritation from turning into long-term trouble.
Give Their Paws a Break From Harsh Surfaces
Sometimes, the problem isn’t just what’s happening on the paw—it’s what they’re walking on every day. Hot pavement, sharp gravel, and chemically treated lawns can all irritate sensitive paws. Using a natural potty solution indoors or on balconies helps limit exposure to these harsh surfaces.
Gotta Go Grass provides real, farm-fresh grass designed specifically for potty use, offering a softer, gentler surface for sensitive paws. It’s especially helpful for apartment dogs, seniors, or pups with recurring paw irritation, as it reduces contact with extreme temperatures and potential chemical burns outdoors.
Your dog’s paws do a lot of work every day. Giving them a clean, safe potty spot helps keep them healthy, comfortable, and happy from the ground up.
Discover Gotta Go Grass for a paw-friendly potty solution, and explore more tips and pet-safe solutions to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
