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Newfoundlands are famously loyal and friendly, and are often seen as strong, intelligent, and protective family pets. But have you ever seen your Newfoundland 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 a Newfoundland might be licking their paws. In this article, we’ll explore the four most common reasons why a Newfoundland might be licking their paws.
Reasons Why Your Newfoundland Licks and Bites Its Paws
1. Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. If a Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland is licking their paws more than normal, it could be a sign that they’re dealing with an allergy. Have them checked out by a veterinarian so that you can determine the cause of the problem.
Many Newfoundland 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 a Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland 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
Newfoundlands are highly sensitive to their environment, so it’s not unusual for them to develop anxiety or stress if something changes. If your Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland’s behavior and to try to alleviate any stress they may be feeling.
If you believe your Newfoundland 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
Newfoundlands 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 Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland constantly licking its paws?
Constant paw licking is often a sign of allergies, skin irritation, infections, or boredom. Environmental allergens like pollen or grass are common triggers for Newfoundlands.
2. Can allergies cause my Newfoundland to chew its paws?
Yes. Seasonal or food allergies can cause itching and inflammation, leading your Newfoundland to chew or bite its paws for relief.
3. How do I know if my Newfoundland has a paw infection?
Look for redness, swelling, foul odor, or discharge between the toes or paw pads. These are common signs of a bacterial or yeast infection.
4. What should I do if my Newfoundland keeps biting one paw?
If it’s only one paw, check for injuries, splinters, insect bites, or lodged debris. Persistent biting could indicate pain or an infection in that paw.
5. Are dry paws a reason for licking in Newfoundlands?
Yes. Dry, cracked paw pads can be uncomfortable. Your Newfoundland may lick to soothe irritation — consider using dog-safe paw balms or moisturizers.
6. Could anxiety make my Newfoundland lick its paws excessively?
Absolutely. Separation anxiety or boredom can cause compulsive behaviors like over-grooming or paw licking. Regular exercise and enrichment can help reduce stress.
7. Can parasites cause my Newfoundland to bite its paws?
Yes. Fleas, mites, or ticks can irritate the skin around the paws, prompting your Newfoundland to chew or bite to relieve the itch.
8. How can I tell if my Newfoundland’s paw licking is from pain?
If your Newfoundland limps, avoids putting weight on a paw, or reacts when you touch it, the licking may be due to pain from an injury, arthritis, or joint issues.
9. What home remedies help stop paw licking in Newfoundlands?
You can try paw soaks with diluted antiseptic solutions, dog-safe moisturizers, or Epsom salt baths. However, if the problem persists, see a vet.
10. Should I use a cone to stop my Newfoundland from licking its paws?
A cone (Elizabethan collar) can help prevent further irritation while the paws heal, but it’s best used alongside vet-recommended treatment for the underlying cause.
11. Can diet affect my Newfoundland’s paw licking?
Yes. Poor diet or food sensitivities (like to chicken, beef, or grains) can cause itchy skin and paw licking. A hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet may help.
12. How often should I clean my Newfoundland’s paws?
Clean your Newfoundland’s paws after walks or outdoor play to remove allergens, dirt, or chemicals. Regular cleaning helps prevent irritation and infection.
13. Is excessive licking dangerous for my Newfoundland?
Yes. Continuous licking can cause hot spots, raw skin, or secondary infections. If licking lasts more than a few days, consult a vet.
14. Can grooming habits reduce paw licking in Newfoundlands?
Definitely. Trimming fur between the paw pads and keeping nails short reduces the risk of trapped moisture, debris, or matting that can lead to irritation.
15. When should I take my Newfoundland to the vet for paw licking?
Visit a vet if the licking is constant, causes redness, swelling, bleeding, or a bad smell. Early diagnosis prevents worsening of infections or allergic reactions.
Licking their paws is a common behavior in Newfoundlands, 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 Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland’s paws clean, pain-free, and healthy every day.
Toledo, United States.