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Shiba Inus are famously loyal and friendly, and are often seen as strong, intelligent, and protective family pets. But have you ever seen your Shiba Inu 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 Shiba Inu might be licking their paws. In this article, we’ll explore the four most common reasons why a Shiba Inu might be licking their paws.
Reasons Why Your Shiba Inu Licks and Bites Its Paws
1. Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. If a Shiba Inu 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 Shiba Inu 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 vet so that you can get to the bottom of the problem.
Many Shiba Inu 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 Shiba Inu 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 Shiba Inu 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
Shiba Inus are highly sensitive to their environment, so it’s not unusual for them to develop anxiety or stress if something changes. If your Shiba Inu 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 Shiba Inu’s behavior and to try to alleviate any stress they may be feeling.
If you believe your Shiba Inu 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
Shiba Inus 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 Shiba Inu 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)
Related: Best Snout Soothers for Dogs
Frequently Asked Questions About Licking or Biting Its Paws
1. Why does my Shiba Inu keep licking its paws?
Excessive paw licking in Shiba Inus can be caused by allergies, irritation, boredom, or anxiety. It’s important to observe patterns and check for redness or swelling.
2. Is it normal for Shiba Inus to bite or chew their paws?
Occasional licking is normal grooming behavior. However, constant biting or chewing usually indicates discomfort, skin irritation, or an underlying health issue.
3. Can allergies cause a Shiba Inu to lick its paws constantly?
Yes. Shiba Inus are prone to food, pollen, or dust allergies that can cause itchy, inflamed paws. Seasonal allergies are a common trigger.
4. What kind of allergies affect Shiba Inu paws?
Common culprits include food allergens (like chicken, beef, or dairy), environmental factors (pollen, mold, grass), and chemical irritants (cleaning products or de-icing salts).
5. Could dry skin cause paw licking in Shiba Inus?
Yes. Dry or cracked paw pads can make your Shiba Inu lick or chew for relief. Use a pet-safe moisturizer and ensure proper hydration.
6. How can I tell if my Shiba Inu has a paw infection?
Look for redness, swelling, discharge, or a foul odor. Persistent licking of one paw may also indicate an infection or injury.
7. Can anxiety make my Shiba Inu bite its paws?
Absolutely. Stress, loneliness, or lack of mental stimulation can cause repetitive behaviors like paw licking or chewing as a coping mechanism.
8. How can I stop my Shiba Inu from licking its paws too much?
Identify the cause first. Clean paws regularly, eliminate allergens, provide enrichment toys, and consult your vet for allergies or infections.
9. Is paw licking linked to boredom in Shiba Inus?
Yes. Intelligent and energetic dogs like Shiba Inus may resort to licking or chewing out of boredom. Daily exercise and interactive play can help.
10. Could parasites cause paw biting in Shiba Inus?
Yes. Fleas, mites, or ticks can irritate the skin between the toes, prompting your dog to lick or bite excessively. Regular parasite prevention is key.
11. Should I use an Elizabethan collar (cone) to stop the licking?
A cone can prevent further irritation temporarily, but it’s only a short-term solution. The root cause must be diagnosed and treated.
12. When should I take my Shiba Inu to the vet for paw licking?
If the licking is frequent, the paws are red or swollen, or you notice limping, visit your veterinarian for a professional assessment.
13. How can diet affect my Shiba Inu’s paw health?
A poor diet lacking essential fatty acids or containing allergens can cause skin inflammation. A vet-recommended, hypoallergenic diet can help.
14. What home remedies can soothe irritated Shiba Inu paws?
You can try paw soaks using diluted betadine or Epsom salt, apply coconut oil, and keep the paws clean and dry — but check with your vet first.
15. Can constant paw licking lead to other health problems?
Yes. Repeated licking can cause sores, bacterial infections, and hair loss. Early treatment helps prevent complications.
Licking their paws is a common behavior in Shiba Inus, 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 Shiba Inu 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 Shiba Inu 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 Shiba Inu’s paws clean, pain-free, and healthy every day.
Toledo, United States.