Why Is My Dog Licking Their Paws? 7 Ways to Stop Itching Naturally

We all know that sound, the obsessive paw licking in the middle of the night that wakes you from your sleep. It is enough to drive any pet parent crazy, but for your dog, it is a sign of real discomfort.

If your dog is licking their paws red and raw, do not ignore it. While some licking is normal grooming, excessive biting or chewing usually means something is wrong. Here are the 7 most common reasons for the fixation and how to fix them at home.

1. Why is my dog licking their paws after a walk?

Your dog’s paws act like sponges for everything outside. In Australia, grass seeds and pollen are huge triggers. If your dog licks more right after a walk, it is likely a contact allergy to something they touched.

The Fix:

• Keep a damp towel by the door and wipe their feet every time they come inside.
• This removes the itchy stuff before they can start licking.
• Try a five-minute soak in warm water with Epsom salts to draw out toxins.
• This soothes the skin instantly and stops the urge to chew.
  
  

2. Can dog food allergies cause itchy paws?

If the licking happens all year round and their paws seem hot or red, the problem might be their diet. Many standard treats or kibbles use mystery meats and grains that cause inflammation from the inside out.

The Fix:

• Switch to single protein, natural foods like Kangaroo, Venison or Fish.
• These are easier on the stomach and rarely cause a reaction.
• Try a two-week elimination trial where you remove all chicken and beef to see if the itching stops (these are the most common allergens).
• Adding a probiotic to their meal can help rebalance their gut and clear up skin issues.
  
  

3. How to check for grass seeds or paw injuries

A dog will often lick a specific spot to try and heal a wound. If the licking is focused on just one paw, there is a good chance something is stuck in there.

The Fix:

• Get a torch and look between every single toe for bindis or grass seeds.
• Check the pads for peeling or blisters, especially after walking on hot paths.
• Remove any grass seeds or see a vet quickly if it’s too deep as these can tunnel into the leg.
• Look for small cuts or grazes that might be stinging.
  
  

4. Why do my dog's paws smell like yeast or corn chips?

Does your dog’s paw smell like Fritos? That yeasty smell is a classic sign of fungal growth. Yeast thrives in moisture, so when a dog licks their paw, they actually make the problem worse by keeping the area wet.

The Fix:

• Keep the hair between the pads trimmed short to allow air to flow.
• This prevents moisture from getting trapped and growing bacteria.
• Use a mix of half water and half apple cider vinegar as a paw rinse.
• This balances the pH of the skin so yeast cannot grow.
• Only do this if the skin is not broken to avoid stinging.
  
  

5. Is my dog licking their paws because of boredom or anxiety?

Sometimes, paw licking starts as a way to pass the time. If a dog is bored or stressed, the act of licking releases calming endorphins. It becomes a habit that is hard to break and can lead to a permanent sore.

The Fix:

• Give them a better job to do that satisfies their natural instincts.
• Chewing is a natural way for dogs to settle their nervous system.
• A twenty-minute chew session is as tiring as an hour long walk for their brain.
• Give them a high value reward from our long lasting chew range to keep their mouth off their feet.
  
  

6. How to tell if fleas or mites are causing paw licking

Fleas and mites love the warm areas between a dog's toes. Even if you cannot see them, one tiny bite can trigger a massive allergic reaction that leads to obsessive chewing.

The Fix:

• Use a flea comb to look for flea dirt which looks like small black spots.
• Ticks often hide between the pads, so feel for any unusual lumps or bumps.
• Stay up to date with your parasite prevention all year round.
• Clean their bedding regularly to make sure no pests are hiding where they sleep.
  
  

7. Can arthritis cause a dog to lick their joints or paws?

In older dogs, licking a joint or a paw can be a sign of arthritis. If they have a dull ache in their wrist or shoulder, they might lick the paw nearby to try and soothe the discomfort through topical stimulation.

The Fix:

• Watch how your dog moves to see if they are slow to get up or limping.
• If the licking is focused on a joint, talk to your vet about pain management.
• Use a natural paw balm with hemp or manuka honey for topical relief.
• Ensure they have a soft, supportive place to sleep that is easy on their joints.

Quick Summary for Pet Parents

• Check for Red Stains: Saliva stains fur a rusty brown colour called porphyrin.
• Smell the Paws: A yeasty smell means they need a pH balancing soak.
• Clean After Walks: Wiping paws removes grass, pollen, and chemicals.
• Switch Proteins: Move to Roo or Fish foods to lower internal inflammation.
• Provide Jobs: Use long lasting chews to stop boredom licking and provide calm.
  
  

The Bottom Line An itchy dog is a miserable dog. By figuring out if the problem is external, internal, or mental, you can stop the licking and help your pup feel satisfied and comfortable again.

Please always seek the advice of a Vet if you’re unsure.

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