Obsessive Paw Licking

Question
Hi, Richella:  We adopted a 4-5 yr old female G. Shepherd from the pound.  She constantly licks one of her front and one of her rear paws, causing sores and pad tenderness.  We've taken her to the vet, and he says there is no medical cause for this.  He's done skin checks, and he does not feel it's a food allergy, as we've already had her on a special diet for 4 months.  We think it's behavorial, and have tried YUK, which is a foul tasting spray to discourage her from licking.  We both work full-time, so it's hard to watch her 24/7.  She has a male Lab mix companion during the day, who was our first rescued dog.  We need help to get her to stop licking, and have tried extra walks, etc.  She was in the pound for over 4 months, so I really think that this is a behavioral habit that might be tough to break.  She adores my husband, so maybe separation anxiety is a factor, when he leaves.  HELP! What can we try?  How do we break her of this?????

Answer
Dear Sally

Thanks you for your question.Please accept my apologies for my late reply.I have a few more questions to ask to help with my advise.

Does she only lick her paws when she is separated from your husband?
How do try to stop her from licking her paws?  For example petting her, distracting her ect?
Does she lick her paws in front of you or just when you are out?
Does she ever bark, toilet or is destructive when left?

Kind Regards
Richella