Paw Licking

Question
My Westie licks the bottom of his paws.  He is 4 years old and this has just started.  What causes this and what do I do to help him?
Thank you.

Answer
Hi Joy,

Anytime there is a "behavior" involved, it is most important to first rule out an underlying medical reason for the behavior. If all medical concerns are ruled out, then the problem can be approached as a behavioral one, and behavior modification techniques can be employed.

Some questions to consider: is this a new behavior? Is it both front feet or all feet? Are there any other conditions present such as limping or swelling in the foot? A foot licking problem can start out as a medical one and later become a habit or compulsive behavior. but here are some things your veterinarian will want to know and will be looking for on examination:

Are the feet red, swollen, or crusty or flaky?
This could be indicative of a local irritant (such as deicer) or inflammation/infection from bacterial, fungal and/or parasitic sources. Even if the inciting cause is no longer present, constant licking and chewing can become a self-propagating cycle of continued trauma to the skin and continued inflammation.

Is licking present in the absence of any noticeable wrong with the feet or toes?
This could be from inhalant allergies causing general itchiness, a food allergy or other painful "interior" conditions causing pain in the area without visible infection, etc. on the foot.

Are there any irregular lumps or bumps deep between the toes or foot pads?
Cysts or other growths or small abscesses can occur, causing discomfort and licking.

Foot licking can be simply a habit behavior as well; seen when the dog is relaxing, stressed, or bored. Some dogs even chew at their nails with this type of behavior. Depending on what your veterinarian finds on examination, treatment to stop this behavior will be aimed at the underlying cause. For cases of allergy or infection, there are medications and/or dietary changes that can be made to assist with the problem.

If a doctor exam finds nothing is wrong, then you need to do some "behavioral modification" to stop paw licking and chewing. Like any behavioral modification, it takes time, patience and consistency. There are several topical products that can be used to discourage this behavior (bitter, hot taste, etc.). Distraction is also a good technique: playing games, offering other toys and incentives to keep your dog occupied coupled with positive reinforcement will help break the cycle.

Best of luck,
Patti