Dog Licking Paw: Symptoms & Treatment

If you’ve noticed your dog licking their paws more than usual, limping, or showing signs of discomfort when walking, you may be witnessing the early signs of pododermatitis. This inflammatory condition can affect one or more paws, and it often develops into a painful and frustrating issue for both dogs and their owners. While pododermatitis might not be a word you hear every day, it’s an important topic for pet owners to understand—especially when it comes to identifying symptoms early and knowing when to seek veterinary care. Below, we’ll explore what pododermatitis in dogs really means, what causes it, how it presents itself, and how veterinarians approach treatment. If you’re concerned about your dog’s paws, call Saratoga Veterinary Hospital at (518) 587-3832 to schedule an appointment.

 

 

What Is Pododermatitis in Dogs?

Pododermatitis is a term that refers to inflammation of the skin on the paws, particularly in the areas between the toes and pads. It’s not a specific disease, but rather a condition that can result from several underlying causes. When a dog’s paw becomes irritated or infected, the result is inflammation, which often leads to swelling, redness, and discomfort. This condition can affect any breed or age of dog, though certain breeds like Bulldogs, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds may be more prone to it due to anatomical or genetic factors. Pododermatitis in dogs can be acute or chronic, depending on the root cause and how quickly it’s addressed.

Common Symptoms of Pododermatitis

Dogs experiencing pododermatitis may show a range of clinical signs. Recognizing these symptoms early can lead to faster diagnosis and better outcomes.

Physical Signs

The most noticeable symptoms of pododermatitis often include:

• Redness and swelling between the toes or on the paw pads
• Hair loss in affected areas
• Lesions, sores, or scabbing
• Discharge or pus from between the toes
• Thickened or crusty skin

These physical changes can develop gradually or appear suddenly, depending on the underlying issue.

Behavioral Changes

In addition to visible signs, watch for changes in your dog’s behavior:

• Persistent licking or chewing of the paws
• Reluctance to walk or limping
• Whining or discomfort when the paw is touched
• Favoring one paw or holding a paw off the ground

These signs often indicate pain or itchiness that shouldn’t be ignored. Chronic licking, in particular, can worsen the inflammation and lead to secondary infections.

Causes of Pododermatitis in Dogs

Identifying the root cause of pododermatitis in dogs is essential for effective treatment. There are several possible triggers, and often, more than one factor may be involved.

Allergies

One of the most common causes of pododermatitis is allergic reaction—either environmental, food-related, or contact-based. Dogs with allergies often suffer from inflamed and itchy skin, and their paws are frequent targets of excessive licking.

Infections

Bacterial and fungal infections can both lead to inflammation of the paw. These may occur secondary to trauma, excessive licking, or immune system imbalances. Yeast infections are particularly common in moist areas between the toes.

Parasites

Mites such as Demodex or Sarcoptes can burrow into the skin, causing significant irritation and inflammation. These infestations can be localized to the paws or occur as part of a larger skin issue.

Trauma or Foreign Bodies

Injuries to the paw, such as cuts, burns, or embedded objects like thorns or foxtails, can lead to localized pododermatitis. Dogs may lick the area in an attempt to relieve pain, which can worsen the inflammation.

Autoimmune or Hormonal Conditions

Less commonly, underlying immune system disorders or hormonal imbalances—such as hypothyroidism—can contribute to the development of pododermatitis in dogs.

Diagnosing Pododermatitis in Dogs

Proper diagnosis is key to selecting the right treatment path. A veterinarian will perform a physical exam and may recommend diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause.

Diagnostic Tests

Your vet may perform:

• Skin scrapings to check for mites
• Cytology to identify bacteria or yeast
• Fungal cultures
• Allergy testing or food trials
• Biopsy for chronic or unusual cases

Each of these tests helps rule out specific causes and narrow down an appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment Approach for Pododermatitis

Because pododermatitis can stem from several different issues, treatment is often tailored to the specific diagnosis. The goal is to reduce inflammation, manage infections, and address the root cause to prevent recurrence.

Medications

Depending on the condition, your veterinarian may prescribe:

• Oral or topical antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Antifungal medications for yeast-related issues
• Anti-inflammatory drugs or steroids to reduce swelling
• Antihistamines or allergy medications for allergic reactions

Topical treatments may be used alongside oral medications to help relieve discomfort and speed up healing.

Addressing the Underlying Cause

For allergy-related cases, your vet may recommend dietary changes, environmental adjustments, or long-term allergy management strategies. In cases involving parasites or hormonal issues, specific treatments will target those underlying factors directly.

Paw Care and Follow-Up

Veterinarians often recommend regular paw cleaning, avoiding allergens or irritants, and monitoring for signs of recurrence. Dogs with chronic pododermatitis may require long-term management and periodic checkups.

Is It Time to Call Your Veterinarian?

It’s important to contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, especially if they persist or worsen. Left unaddressed, pododermatitis can lead to chronic pain, deeper infections, and lasting damage to the paw tissues. Early diagnosis helps avoid more intensive treatments down the line. If you’re concerned about your dog’s paws, call Saratoga Veterinary Hospital in Wilton, NY. We’ll help get your dog back on their feet with a thorough exam and personalized care.

Supporting Long-Term Paw Health

Pododermatitis may sound intimidating, but with the right veterinary care and a thoughtful management plan, most dogs respond well to treatment. Staying alert to your dog’s grooming habits, inspecting their paws regularly, and following through with your vet’s recommendations can make a significant difference in their comfort and health. For dogs prone to recurring episodes, ongoing support may be necessary to manage flare-ups and reduce the likelihood of complications. If your dog is showing signs of pododermatitis, we encourage you to reach out to Saratoga Veterinary Hospital at (518) 587-3832 to schedule an evaluation. Our team is here to help restore your dog’s comfort and paw health with expert care tailored to their needs.