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Australian Shepherds are famously loyal and friendly, and are often seen as strong, intelligent, and protective family pets. But have you ever seen your Australian Shepherd licking their paws? While it may seem strange, it’s actually a relatively common behavior in dogs. While it can be a sign of anxiety or boredom, there are some other reasons why an Australian Shepherd might be licking their paws. In this article, we’ll explore the four most common reasons why an Australian Shepherd might be licking their paws.
Reasons Why Your Australian Shepherd Licks and Bites Its Paws
1. Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. If an Australian Shepherd is licking their paws, it could be because of an allergic reaction to something in the environment. This can include pollen, dust, or even certain food items. If your Australian Shepherd is licking their paws more than normal, it could be a sign that it’s dealing with some sort of allergy. Have them checked out by a veterinarian so that you can determine the cause of the problem.
Many Australian Shepherd owners see success after giving their dog a natural allergy supplement, such as fish oil or quercetin, also known as “Nature’s Benadryl. One popular supplement is the iHeartDogs Allergy & Itch chews, available here or on Amazon Prime.
2. Skin Infections
It’s not unusual for an Australian Shepherd to develop a skin infection, especially if they’re outdoors a lot and exposed to a variety of different elements. Skin infections can be caused by a variety of different things, including bacteria, fungi, and parasites. If your Australian Shepherd is licking their paws, it could be because it’s trying to soothe an itchy or irritated area of skin. If this is the case, then it’s important to take them to the vet so that they can receive the appropriate treatment.
For minor paw irritations, a chlorhexidine wipe may offer relief. Always be sure to consult your veterinarian.
3. Anxiety or Stress
Australian Shepherds are highly sensitive to their environment, so it’s not unusual for them to develop anxiety or stress if something changes. If your Australian Shepherd is licking their paws, it could be a sign that it’s feeling anxious or stressed. This could be caused by a move to a new home, the introduction of a new pet, or even changes in the weather. In any case, it’s important to pay attention to your Australian Shepherd’s behavior and to try to alleviate any stress they may be feeling.
If you believe your Australian Shepherd is suffering from anxiety, it’s important to address the root cause of the stressor. However, tools such as broad-spectrum Hemp oil or chews may be very helpful. There are also non-Hemp natural calming chews available as well.
4. Boredom
Australian Shepherds are highly active and need plenty of exercise in order to stay healthy and happy. If they’re not getting enough exercise, they can become bored and start to display behaviors such as licking their paws. This is why it’s important to make sure your Australian Shepherd is getting enough physical activity. Make sure to take them for plenty of walks, play with them, and give them some interactive toys such as a nose work mat (many available on Amazon as well)
Frequently Asked Questions About Licking or Biting Its Paws
1. Why is my Australian Shepherd licking its paws so much?
Excessive paw licking in Australian Shepherds is often caused by allergies, irritation, or insect bites. Environmental triggers like pollen, grass, or cleaning chemicals can make their paws itchy, leading them to lick frequently for relief.
2. Can allergies make my Australian Shepherd bite or chew its paws?
Yes. Seasonal or food allergies are one of the most common causes of paw biting. Ingredients like chicken, beef, or wheat can trigger itchiness and inflammation. A vet may recommend an elimination diet or allergy testing to pinpoint the cause.
3. Could anxiety be why my Australian Shepherd is licking its paws?
Absolutely. Australian Shepherds are intelligent and energetic dogs. When bored, stressed, or anxious, they may lick or chew their paws as a self-soothing behavior, similar to nail-biting in humans.
4. What if my Australian Shepherd’s paws are red or swollen?
Redness or swelling indicates inflammation or infection, often from excessive licking. Bacteria or yeast can enter small cuts or irritated areas. It’s best to have a vet check for possible skin infections or hot spots.
5. How can I tell if my dog’s paw licking is due to pain?
If your Australian Shepherd licks only one paw or limps, it may be due to pain or injury, such as a thorn, cut, or joint issue. Carefully inspect the paw pads and between toes for debris, swelling, or tenderness.
6. What home remedies can I try to stop my dog from licking its paws?
You can gently wash your dog’s paws with mild, fragrance-free soap and rinse with warm water after walks. Applying a vet-approved paw balm or Epsom salt soak can help soothe irritation. Always avoid harsh human ointments.
7. Should I use a cone or booties to stop paw licking?
Yes, temporarily. E-collars (cones) or dog booties can prevent further injury while the underlying cause is treated. However, they’re only short-term solutions — you still need to address the root problem.
8. What foods commonly trigger allergies in Australian Shepherds?
Common food allergens include chicken, beef, dairy, wheat, and soy. Switching to a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic diet may reduce paw licking if food sensitivity is suspected.
9. Can flea bites cause paw licking or biting?
Yes. Even a single flea bite can cause severe itching in sensitive dogs. If you notice flea dirt or frequent scratching, use a vet-approved flea control product and wash bedding frequently.
10. How do I clean my Australian Shepherd’s paws after walks?
Use fragrance-free wipes or a gentle paw rinse to remove dirt, salt, or chemicals. This helps prevent irritation from residues that may cause itching or dryness.
11. Are certain seasons worse for paw licking?
Yes. Spring and summer bring higher pollen levels, while winter can cause dryness from cold weather and salted sidewalks. Wiping paws and moisturizing regularly helps reduce seasonal flare-ups.
12. Could a yeast infection be the reason my dog licks its paws?
Yes. A yeast infection gives paws a reddish-brown color and a musty odor. Dogs with this infection often lick or chew between their toes. Your vet can prescribe antifungal treatments to clear it up.
13. What role does grooming play in preventing paw problems?
Regular grooming keeps fur between the paw pads short, preventing matting and trapped moisture. This helps reduce bacterial buildup and irritation from dirt or allergens.
14. When should I see a vet about my dog’s paw licking?
If your Australian Shepherd’s paw licking leads to redness, sores, hair loss, or limping, see a vet right away. Persistent licking often signals an underlying condition that needs professional care.
15. How can I prevent my Australian Shepherd from developing paw irritation?
Prevent paw issues by keeping paws clean and dry, maintaining year-round flea prevention, feeding a balanced diet, and ensuring daily exercise to prevent boredom-related licking.
Licking their paws is a common behavior in Australian Shepherds, and there can be a few different reasons for it. The most common are allergies, skin infections, anxiety or stress, and boredom. If you notice your Australian Shepherd licking their paws more than normal, it’s important to pay attention to their behavior and take them to the vet if necessary.
Keeping Those Little Paws Healthy
If your Australian Shepherd is constantly licking or biting its paws, it’s often an indication of an underlying problem such as allergies, anxiety, injuries, or parasites. These behaviors shouldn’t be ignored, as they can lead to skin irritation or infection if left untreated. Observing your dog’s habits and addressing the root cause early is crucial for its comfort and well-being. Consistent grooming, regular vet checkups, and a balanced diet play a vital role in keeping your Australian Shepherd’s paws clean, pain-free, and healthy every day.
Toledo, United States.