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Pekingeses are famously loyal and friendly, and are often seen as strong, intelligent and protective family pets. But have you ever seen your Pekingese 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 Pekingese might be licking their paws. In this article, we’ll explore the four most common reasons why a Pekingese might be licking their paws.
Reasons Why Your Pekingese Licks and Bites Its Paws
1. Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. If a Pekingese 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 Pekingese is licking their paws more than normal, it could be a sign that they’re dealing with some sort of allergy. Have them checked out by a veterinarian so that you can determine the cause of the problem.
Many Pekingese 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 Pekingese 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 Pekingese is licking their paws, it could be because they’re 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
Pekingeses are highly sensitive to their environment, so it’s not unusual for them to develop anxiety or stress if something changes. If your Pekingese is licking their paws, it could be a sign that they’re 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 Pekingese’s behavior and to try to alleviate any stress they may be feeling.
If you believe your Pekingese 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
Pekingeses 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 Pekingese 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 Pekingese constantly licking or biting its paws?
Excessive paw licking or biting in Pekingese dogs is often a sign of itchiness, irritation, or discomfort. Common causes include allergies, skin infections, parasites (like fleas or mites), or stress-related behaviors.
2. Can allergies cause my Pekingese to lick its paws?
Yes. Environmental or food allergies are a top reason for paw licking. Grass, pollen, dust mites, or specific proteins in dog food can trigger itching and inflammation, especially between the toes.
3. How can I tell if my Pekingese has a skin infection on its paws?
Look for redness, swelling, foul odor, or discharge between the paw pads or around the nails. A yeast or bacterial infection can develop when your dog licks the same area repeatedly.
4. Could fleas or mites be causing my Pekingese to bite its paws?
Absolutely. Flea bites or mite infestations can cause intense itchiness. Even one flea bite can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive dogs, leading to obsessive licking or chewing.
5. Is it normal for Pekingese dogs to groom their paws?
Yes, occasional grooming is normal. However, if your Pekingese licks or chews excessively—causing hair loss, sores, or redness—it indicates an underlying problem that needs attention.
6. Can dry skin make my Pekingese lick its paws?
Yes. Dry or cracked skin, often caused by low humidity, harsh shampoos, or nutritional deficiencies, can make paws itchy or uncomfortable.
7. Could anxiety cause paw licking in my Pekingese?
Yes. Pekingese dogs can develop anxiety-induced habits, including licking or chewing their paws, as a form of self-soothing. Changes in environment, routine, or loneliness can trigger this behavior.
8. How do I know if my Pekingese’s paw licking is due to pain?
If your dog licks one specific paw, limps, or avoids putting weight on it, there might be an injury, foreign object (like a splinter), or joint pain causing discomfort.
9. Can diet affect my Pekingese’s paw health?
Yes. A poor diet lacking essential fatty acids and vitamins can lead to dry skin, weak nails, and inflammation, making your dog’s paws itchy and irritated.
10. What home remedies can help stop my Pekingese from licking its paws?
You can try paw soaks (using diluted apple cider vinegar or Epsom salt), paw balms, and ensure your dog’s paws are clean and dry after walks. Always identify the cause first before treating at home.
11. When should I take my Pekingese to the vet for paw licking?
See a vet if your dog’s licking leads to sores, bleeding, limping, or persistent itching that lasts more than a few days. Early diagnosis prevents infections and long-term discomfort.
12. Can grooming habits contribute to paw irritation?
Yes. Over-trimming fur between paw pads or using harsh grooming products can irritate. Always use gentle, dog-safe shampoos and maintain moderate paw hair length.
13. Do seasonal allergies affect Pekingese dogs?
Yes. Pekingese are prone to seasonal allergies caused by pollen, grass, or mold. Paw licking often peaks during spring and summer when allergens are most active.
14. How can I prevent my Pekingese from biting its paws in the future?
Regular paw cleaning, monthly flea prevention, a balanced diet, and routine vet checkups are key to preventing recurring paw problems. Keeping the environment clean also helps minimize allergens.
15. What are the main reasons my Pekingese licks or bites its paws?
The four most common reasons are:
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Allergies (environmental or food-related)
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Infections (yeast or bacterial)
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Parasites (fleas or mites)
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Behavioral issues (stress or anxiety)
Licking their paws is a common behavior in Pekingeses, 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 Pekingese 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 Pekingese 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 Pekingese’s paws clean, pain-free, and healthy every day.
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