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Shih Tzus are famously loyal and friendly, and are often seen as strong, intelligent, and protective family pets. But have you ever seen your Shih Tzu 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 Shih Tzu might be licking their paws. In this article, we’ll explore the four most common reasons why a Shih Tzu might be licking their paws.
Reasons Why Your Shih Tzu Licks and Bites Its Paws
1. Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. If a Shih Tzu 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 Shih Tzu 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 Shih Tzu 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 Shih Tzu 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 Shih Tzu 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
Shih Tzus are highly sensitive to their environment, so it’s not unusual for them to develop anxiety or stress if something changes. If your Shih Tzu 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 Shih Tzu’s behavior and to try to alleviate any stress they may be feeling.
If you believe your Shih Tzu 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
Shih Tzus 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 Shih Tzu 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 Shih Tzu constantly licking its paws?
Excessive paw licking in Shih Tzus is often caused by allergies, skin irritation, infections, or anxiety. Identifying the root cause helps prevent further discomfort and damage.
2. Can allergies make my Shih Tzu bite its paws?
Yes. Shih Tzus are prone to environmental and food allergies that cause itchy skin. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, chicken, beef, or grains.
3. How do I know if my Shih Tzu’s paw biting is from an infection?
Check for redness, swelling, foul odor, or discharge. These signs suggest a bacterial or yeast infection, which requires veterinary treatment.
4. Could anxiety cause my Shih Tzu to lick its paws?
Absolutely. Stress, separation anxiety, or boredom can lead to obsessive licking or chewing as a self-soothing behavior.
5. What food allergies commonly affect Shih Tzus?
Shih Tzus often react to ingredients like chicken, beef, wheat, soy, or dairy. Switching to a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet can help identify triggers.
6. Can parasites cause paw licking or biting?
Yes. Fleas, mites, or ticks can bite and irritate your dog’s skin, leading to excessive licking or chewing of affected areas.
7. How can I stop my Shih Tzu from licking its paws?
Identify the cause first. Use vet-approved topical sprays for irritation, keep paws clean, address allergies, and reduce stress through regular exercise and attention.
8. Are dry or cracked paw pads a reason for licking?
Yes. Dry, cracked, or rough paw pads can cause discomfort. Moisturize with a dog-safe balm and avoid walking on hot pavement or icy surfaces.
9. Should I use an e-collar or booties to stop paw chewing?
You can use them temporarily to prevent injury, but only while treating the underlying cause. Constant use without addressing the problem won’t help long-term.
10. Is paw licking normal for a Shih Tzu?
Occasional licking is normal for grooming. However, constant or obsessive licking signals an underlying issue that needs attention.
11. Can grooming products irritate my Shih Tzu’s paws?
Yes. Shampoos, sprays, or floor cleaners with harsh chemicals can cause allergic reactions. Always use dog-safe, hypoallergenic products.
12. How can I tell if my Shih Tzu’s paw problem is serious?
If your dog’s paw is swollen, bleeding, or has open sores, see a vet immediately. Chronic licking or limping are also warning signs.
13. How can I prevent paw irritation in my Shih Tzu?
Regularly wipe your dog’s paws after walks, trim the hair between paw pads, and use protective balm during extreme weather.
14. What home remedies can help my Shih Tzu’s itchy paws?
You can use diluted apple cider vinegar rinses (1:1 with water), oatmeal soaks, or coconut oil — but only if the skin isn’t broken or infected.
15. When should I see a vet about my Shih Tzu’s paw licking?
If licking persists for more than a few days, or if there’s swelling, redness, or odor, visit a vet to rule out infection or allergies.
Licking their paws is a common behavior in Shih Tzus, 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 Shih Tzu 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 Shih Tzu 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 Shih Tzu’s paws clean, pain-free, and healthy every day.
Toledo, United States.