{"id":4690,"date":"2020-05-05T18:00:13","date_gmt":"2020-05-05T18:00:13","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/petdedicated.com\/?p=4690"},"modified":"2021-01-31T07:13:29","modified_gmt":"2021-01-31T07:13:29","slug":"why-do-dogs-chew-their-feet-reasons-why-and-what-to-do","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/petdedicated.com\/?p=4690","title":{"rendered":"Why Do Dogs Chew Their Feet? Reasons Why and What to Do"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/why-do-dogs-chew-their-feet\" rel=\"nofollow\">Why Do Dogs Chew Their Feet? Reasons Why and What to Do<\/a> by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dogster.com\/author\/marthameverett\" rel=\"nofollow\">Martha M. Everett<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dogster.com\" rel=\"nofollow\">Dogster<\/a>. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren&#8217;t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.<\/p>\n<div id=\"wppb-builder-container\" class=\"wppb-builder-container\">\n<p>I\u2019ve been known to put my foot in my mouth. But dogs do it on purpose. So, why do dogs chew their feet? The answer isn\u2019t as straightforward as you might think. Sure, there\u2019s a simple explanation for the behavior. \u201cA dog is essentially trying to scratch the itch,\u201d says Christopher Pachel, DVM, owner of the <a href=\"https:\/\/animalbehaviorclinic.net\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Animal Behavior Clinic in Portland, Oregon<\/a>. But finding the cause of foot chewing can be complicated. \u201cIt can be multiple different things,\u201d Dr. Pachel says. \u201cThis is not one size fits all.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Chewing and licking feet are common behaviors. \u201cJust because a dog is licking his foot doesn\u2019t necessarily mean that he needs to be rushed into the vet clinic,\u201d Dr. Pachel says. But if the behaviors come on suddenly and intensely for extended periods, they can be cause for concern.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_383869\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"width: 610px;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-383869\" src=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/A-curly-dog-with-feet.jpg\" alt=\"A curly dog chewing his feet. \" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-383869\" \/><\/p>\n<p id=\"caption-attachment-383869\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Why do dogs chew their feet? Allergies might be the answer. Photography \u00a9Barrie Harwood \/ Alamy Stock Photo.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3>Why do dogs chew their feet? Allergies might be at play.<\/h3>\n<p>One of the common answers to, \u201cWhy do dogs chew their feet?\u201d Allergies. If the behavior coincides with a change of seasons, that offers a clue that an <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/identifying-and-treating-environmental-dog-allergies\">environmental allergen<\/a>, such as pollen, mold or mildew, might be triggering the behavior. More long-term chewing could signal a food allergy. But determining the exact food ingredient is difficult and time-consuming. \u201cIt is a process of trial and error, and it\u2019s impossible to predict just by looking at the dog just what they are allergic to,\u201d Dr. Pachel says.<\/p>\n<p>A 12-week food-elimination trial offers the best chance of finding a specific culprit, says Rebecca Remillard, PhD, DVM, a diplomate of the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.acvn.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">American College of Veterinary Nutrition<\/a>. These involved trials start with feeding a simplified diet of foods the dog has never eaten.<\/p>\n<h3>Why do dogs chew their feet? Due to these diseases and illnesses.<\/h3>\n<p>So, what are some other common answers to, \u201cWhy do dogs chew their feet?\u201d Numerous between-the-toes skin diseases can cause a dog to chew his feet, says Dr. Remillard, who founded <a href=\"https:\/\/www.petdiets.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Veterinary Nutritional Consultations Inc.<\/a> in Hollister, North Carolina. In addition, injury or pain (such as from <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/signs-of-arthritis-in-dogs-dog-arthritis-symptoms-early-and-treating-them\">arthritis<\/a> or <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/lifestyle\/dog-health-how-to-spot-prevent-canine-hip-dysplasia\">hip dysplasia<\/a>), as well as autoimmune diseases, cysts, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/are-all-dog-tumors-cancerous\">tumors<\/a> and cancer can lead to foot biting. Some dogs might munch their digits due to skin infections caused by hormonal imbalances, namely too much cortisol or too little thyroid hormone.<\/p>\n<p>Something as innocuous as <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/lifestyle\/how-to-help-your-dog-avoid-dry-itchy-skin-in-the-winter\">dry skin<\/a> from winter weather, an arid climate or a deficiency of fatty acids in the diet can cause excessive paw chomping. A cracked claw could be to blame or even a corn (Greyhounds are said to be prone to corns). Maybe a thorn, pebble or other foreign object is lodged in or between the paw pads. <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/home-remedies-for-fleas-on-dogs\">Fleas<\/a>, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/the-regional-guide-to-fleas-and-ticks-on-dogs\">ticks<\/a>, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/ear-mites-in-dogs\">mites<\/a> and other parasites irritate the skin, as can some soaps and shampoos, the salt used to treat snowy streets and chemical substances such as harsh lawn and garden pesticides.<\/p>\n<h3>Why do dogs chew their feet? Is there ever a good reason behind it?<\/h3>\n<p>Sometimes the answer to, \u201cWhy do dogs chew their feet?\u201d is even beneficial. When dogs instinctively lick their wounds (whether on the foot or elsewhere), antibacterial enzymes in their saliva help ward off infection, according to an article on <em>Psychology Today<\/em>\u2019s website. Saliva also aids in cleaning abrasions and cuts, and the licking action promotes healing by stimulating cells that close the wound.<\/p>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><\/div>\n<div id=\"attachment_383871\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"width: 610px;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-383871\" src=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/A-dog-paw.jpg\" alt=\"A dog paw. \" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-383871\" \/><\/p>\n<p id=\"caption-attachment-383871\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">What\u2019s the difference between a dog chewing and a dog licking his feet? Photography \u00a9PakHong | Getty Images.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3>A dog chewing his feet versus a dog licking his feet<\/h3>\n<p>Now that we\u2019ve got some answers to,\u201dWhy do dogs chew their feet?\u201d let\u2019s look at some reasons why dogs <em>lick<\/em> their feet. Licking without chewing is often a behavioral issue, says Dr. Pachel, who is a diplomate of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dacvb.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">American College of Veterinary Behaviorists<\/a>. Licking feet can be a sign of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/dog-anxiety-treatment\">anxiety<\/a>, depression, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-training\/stressed-dog\">stress<\/a>, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-training\/bored-dog-signs-how-to-keep-him-active\">boredom<\/a> or canine compulsive disorder, which affects as much as 3 percent of dogs.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cSomething about that repetitive oral behavior may be a stress relief,\u201d says Dr. Pachel, who likens it to people chewing their fingernails.<\/p>\n<p>It also can be an attention-seeking behavior. \u201cWe could have a dog that is licking or paying attention to his feet because that is a behavior that drives the owner crazy,\u201d Dr. Pachel says. Reacting to the licking can inadvertently reinforce it.<\/p>\n<p>If your veterinarian rules out health issues as the cause of licking, consult an animal behaviorist.<\/p>\n<h3>Plus, all that foot chewing can create even <em>more<\/em> issues<\/h3>\n<p>Whatever the answer to the question, \u201cWhy do dogs chew their feet?\u201d is \u2014 foot chewing and licking in and of themselves can cause problems.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cChewing and licking can disrupt the normal skin barrier and the normal skin defenses,\u201d Dr. Pachel says. Dampness from saliva can lead to yeast and bacterial infections, particularly for dogs with thick fur that retains moisture. And repeated friction from a rough tongue can rub off fur and cause acute moist dermatitis (hot spots) and lick granulomas (skin lesions).<\/p>\n<p>What initially might have offered temporary relief to the dog ends up making things worse, requiring a multi-pronged resolution: Breaking the itch cycle with antihistamines, topical creams or lotions; treating any infections; and eliminating the underlying cause.<\/p>\n<h3>Some final insights into the question, \u201cWhy do dogs chew their feet?\u201d<\/h3>\n<p>The short answer to \u201cWhy do dogs chew their feet?\u201d It\u2019s complicated. But just as there are lots of causes, there also are lots of treatments.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt really comes back to why it\u2019s happening,\u201d Dr. Pachel says. \u201cFor any one of these issues, there might be multiple treatment options. Focusing on basic health care is a great start to at least minimizing some of these other issues. Then it\u2019s a matter of watching your dog carefully and making that educated decision about when to have him evaluated by a veterinarian.\u201d<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_383872\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"width: 610px;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-383872\" src=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/A-dalmatian-raising-his-paw-or-feet.jpg\" alt=\"A Dalmatian raising his paw or feet. \" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-383872\" \/><\/p>\n<p id=\"caption-attachment-383872\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Are there ways to nip dog foot chewing before it begins? Photography \u00a9kyolshin | Getty Images.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3>Stomp out foot chomping before it begins:<\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>Feed a high-quality, well-balanced diet. \u0084<\/li>\n<li>Make sure your dog gets plenty of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/dog-exercise-how-much-exercise-does-a-dog-need-every-day\">physical exercise<\/a>, mental stimulation and interaction with people and other dogs. \u0084<\/li>\n<li>Provide proper hygiene care, including bathing and grooming. Go for regular veterinary checkups. \u0084<\/li>\n<li>Use preventive flea and tick medication. \u0084<\/li>\n<li>Periodically rinse and examine your dog\u2019s feet.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3>Call your veterinarian if you notice:<\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>New, frequent, persistent, excessive or obsessive foot chewing or licking \u0084<\/li>\n<li>Limping, bald spots or skin that is red, swollen, bleeding or warm to the touch<\/li>\n<li>Discoloration of foot fur (pink or rust color caused by the compound porphyrin in a dog\u2019s saliva)<\/li>\n<li>An area of the foot that is sensitive to touch or has a cut or other wound<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<p>The following is a\u00a0 comprehensive guide on how to get rid of fleas on your dog naturally By, <strong>Your Dog Advisor<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/yourdogadvisor.com\/how-to-get-rid-of-fleas-naturally\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/yourdogadvisor.com\/how-to-get-rid-of-fleas-naturally\/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1612154455254000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGyYzmMk8WmPHa0rgbO5YeMDSf8BA\">https:\/\/yourdogadvisor.<wbr \/>com\/how-to-get-rid-of-fleas-<wbr \/>naturally\/<\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"wppb-builder-container\" class=\"wppb-builder-container\">\n<h3>Read Next: <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-food\/dog-digestive-system-basics\">Dog Digestive System Basics \u2014 How Long Does it Take for a Dog to Digest Food?<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/why-do-dogs-chew-their-feet\" rel=\"nofollow\">Why Do Dogs Chew Their Feet? Reasons Why and What to Do<\/a> by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dogster.com\/author\/marthameverett\" rel=\"nofollow\">Martha M. Everett<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dogster.com\" rel=\"nofollow\">Dogster<\/a>. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren&#8217;t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<\/p>\n<p><p>The post <a rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/why-do-dogs-chew-their-feet\">Why Do Dogs Chew Their Feet? Reasons Why and What to Do<\/a> by <a rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dogster.com\/author\/marthameverett\">Martha M. Everett<\/a> appeared first on <a rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dogster.com\">Dogster<\/a>. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren&#8217;t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.<\/p>\n<div id=\"wppb-builder-container\" class=\"wppb-builder-container\">\n<p>I\u2019ve been known to put my foot in my mouth. But dogs do it on purpose. So, why do dogs chew their feet? The answer isn\u2019t as straightforward as you might think. Sure, there\u2019s a simple explanation for the behavior. \u201cA dog is essentially trying to scratch the itch,\u201d says Christopher Pachel, DVM, owner of the <a href=\"https:\/\/animalbehaviorclinic.net\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Animal Behavior Clinic in Portland, Oregon<\/a>. But finding the cause of foot chewing can be complicated. \u201cIt can be multiple different things,\u201d Dr. Pachel says. \u201cThis is not one size fits all.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Chewing and licking feet are common behaviors. \u201cJust because a dog is licking his foot doesn\u2019t necessarily mean that he needs to be rushed into the vet clinic,\u201d Dr. Pachel says. But if the behaviors come on suddenly and intensely for extended periods, they can be cause for concern.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_383869\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-383869\" class=\"size-full wp-image-383869\" src=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/A-curly-dog-with-feet.jpg\" alt=\"A curly dog chewing his feet. \" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/p>\n<p id=\"caption-attachment-383869\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Why do dogs chew their feet? Allergies might be the answer. Photography \u00a9Barrie Harwood \/ Alamy Stock Photo.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3>Why do dogs chew their feet? Allergies might be at play.<\/h3>\n<p>One of the common answers to, &#8220;Why do dogs chew their feet?&#8221; Allergies. If the behavior coincides with a change of seasons, that offers a clue that an <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/identifying-and-treating-environmental-dog-allergies\">environmental allergen<\/a>, such as pollen, mold or mildew, might be triggering the behavior. More long-term chewing could signal a food allergy. But determining the exact food ingredient is difficult and time-consuming. \u201cIt is a process of trial and error, and it\u2019s impossible to predict just by looking at the dog just what they are allergic to,\u201d Dr. Pachel says.<\/p>\n<p>A 12-week food-elimination trial offers the best chance of finding a specific culprit, says Rebecca Remillard, PhD, DVM, a diplomate of the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.acvn.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">American College of Veterinary Nutrition<\/a>. These involved trials start with feeding a simplified diet of foods the dog has never eaten.<\/p>\n<h3>Why do dogs chew their feet? Due to these diseases and illnesses.<\/h3>\n<p>So, what are some other common answers to, &#8220;Why do dogs chew their feet?&#8221; Numerous between-the-toes skin diseases can cause a dog to chew his feet, says Dr. Remillard, who founded <a href=\"https:\/\/www.petdiets.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Veterinary Nutritional Consultations Inc.<\/a> in Hollister, North Carolina. In addition, injury or pain (such as from <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/signs-of-arthritis-in-dogs-dog-arthritis-symptoms-early-and-treating-them\">arthritis<\/a> or <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/lifestyle\/dog-health-how-to-spot-prevent-canine-hip-dysplasia\">hip dysplasia<\/a>), as well as autoimmune diseases, cysts, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/are-all-dog-tumors-cancerous\">tumors<\/a> and cancer can lead to foot biting. Some dogs might munch their digits due to skin infections caused by hormonal imbalances, namely too much cortisol or too little thyroid hormone.<\/p>\n<p>Something as innocuous as <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/lifestyle\/how-to-help-your-dog-avoid-dry-itchy-skin-in-the-winter\">dry skin<\/a> from winter weather, an arid climate or a deficiency of fatty acids in the diet can cause excessive paw chomping. A cracked claw could be to blame or even a corn (Greyhounds are said to be prone to corns). Maybe a thorn, pebble or other foreign object is lodged in or between the paw pads. <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/home-remedies-for-fleas-on-dogs\">Fleas<\/a>, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/the-regional-guide-to-fleas-and-ticks-on-dogs\">ticks<\/a>, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/ear-mites-in-dogs\">mites<\/a> and other parasites irritate the skin, as can some soaps and shampoos, the salt used to treat snowy streets and chemical substances such as harsh lawn and garden pesticides.<\/p>\n<h3>Why do dogs chew their feet? Is there ever a good reason behind it?<\/h3>\n<p>Sometimes the answer to, &#8220;Why do dogs chew their feet?&#8221; is even beneficial. When dogs instinctively lick their wounds (whether on the foot or elsewhere), antibacterial enzymes in their saliva help ward off infection, according to an article on <em>Psychology Today<\/em>\u2019s website. Saliva also aids in cleaning abrasions and cuts, and the licking action promotes healing by stimulating cells that close the wound.<\/p>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><\/div>\n<div id=\"attachment_383871\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-383871\" class=\"size-full wp-image-383871\" src=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/A-dog-paw.jpg\" alt=\"A dog paw. \" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/p>\n<p id=\"caption-attachment-383871\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">What&#8217;s the difference between a dog chewing and a dog licking his feet? Photography \u00a9PakHong | Getty Images.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3>A dog chewing his feet versus a dog licking his feet<\/h3>\n<p>Now that we&#8217;ve got some answers to,&#8221;Why do dogs chew their feet?&#8221; let&#8217;s look at some reasons why dogs <em>lick<\/em> their feet. Licking without chewing is often a behavioral issue, says Dr. Pachel, who is a diplomate of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dacvb.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">American College of Veterinary Behaviorists<\/a>. Licking feet can be a sign of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/dog-anxiety-treatment\">anxiety<\/a>, depression, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-training\/stressed-dog\">stress<\/a>, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-training\/bored-dog-signs-how-to-keep-him-active\">boredom<\/a> or canine compulsive disorder, which affects as much as 3 percent of dogs.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cSomething about that repetitive oral behavior may be a stress relief,\u201d says Dr. Pachel, who likens it to people chewing their fingernails.<\/p>\n<p>It also can be an attention-seeking behavior. \u201cWe could have a dog that is licking or paying attention to his feet because that is a behavior that drives the owner crazy,\u201d Dr. Pachel says. Reacting to the licking can inadvertently reinforce it.<\/p>\n<p>If your veterinarian rules out health issues as the cause of licking, consult an animal behaviorist.<\/p>\n<h3>Plus, all that foot chewing can create even <em>more<\/em> issues<\/h3>\n<p>Whatever the answer to the question, &#8220;Why do dogs chew their feet?&#8221; is \u2014 foot chewing and licking in and of themselves can cause problems.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cChewing and licking can disrupt the normal skin barrier and the normal skin defenses,\u201d Dr. Pachel says. Dampness from saliva can lead to yeast and bacterial infections, particularly for dogs with thick fur that retains moisture. And repeated friction from a rough tongue can rub off fur and cause acute moist dermatitis (hot spots) and lick granulomas (skin lesions).<\/p>\n<p>What initially might have offered temporary relief to the dog ends up making things worse, requiring a multi-pronged resolution: Breaking the itch cycle with antihistamines, topical creams or lotions; treating any infections; and eliminating the underlying cause.<\/p>\n<h3>Some final insights into the question, &#8220;Why do dogs chew their feet?&#8221;<\/h3>\n<p>The short answer to &#8220;Why do dogs chew their feet?&#8221; It\u2019s complicated. But just as there are lots of causes, there also are lots of treatments.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt really comes back to why it\u2019s happening,\u201d Dr. Pachel says. \u201cFor any one of these issues, there might be multiple treatment options. Focusing on basic health care is a great start to at least minimizing some of these other issues. Then it\u2019s a matter of watching your dog carefully and making that educated decision about when to have him evaluated by a veterinarian.\u201d<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_383872\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-383872\" class=\"size-full wp-image-383872\" src=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/A-dalmatian-raising-his-paw-or-feet.jpg\" alt=\"A Dalmatian raising his paw or feet. \" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/p>\n<p id=\"caption-attachment-383872\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Are there ways to nip dog foot chewing before it begins? Photography \u00a9kyolshin | Getty Images.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3>Stomp out foot chomping before it begins:<\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>Feed a high-quality, well-balanced diet. \u0084<\/li>\n<li>Make sure your dog gets plenty of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/dog-exercise-how-much-exercise-does-a-dog-need-every-day\">physical exercise<\/a>, mental stimulation and interaction with people and other dogs. \u0084<\/li>\n<li>Provide proper hygiene care, including bathing and grooming. Go for regular veterinary checkups. \u0084<\/li>\n<li>Use preventive flea and tick medication. \u0084<\/li>\n<li>Periodically rinse and examine your dog\u2019s feet.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3>Call your veterinarian if you notice:<\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>New, frequent, persistent, excessive or obsessive foot chewing or licking \u0084<\/li>\n<li>Limping, bald spots or skin that is red, swollen, bleeding or warm to the touch<\/li>\n<li>Discoloration of foot fur (pink or rust color caused by the compound porphyrin in a dog\u2019s saliva)<\/li>\n<li>An area of the foot that is sensitive to touch or has a cut or other wound<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3>Read Next: <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-food\/dog-digestive-system-basics\">Dog Digestive System Basics \u2014 How Long Does it Take for a Dog to Digest Food?<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>The post <a rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dogster.com\/dog-health-care\/why-do-dogs-chew-their-feet\">Why Do Dogs Chew Their Feet? Reasons Why and What to Do<\/a> by <a rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dogster.com\/author\/marthameverett\">Martha M. Everett<\/a> appeared first on <a rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dogster.com\">Dogster<\/a>. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren&#8217;t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n<p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4690","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Why Do Dogs Chew Their Feet? 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