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Bullmastiffs are famously loyal and friendly, and are often seen as strong, intelligent, and protective family pets. But have you ever seen your Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff might be licking their paws. In this article, we’ll explore the four most common reasons why a Bullmastiff might be licking their paws.
Reasons Why Your Bullmastiff Licks and Bites Its Paws
1. Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. If a Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff 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 vet so that you can get to the bottom of the problem.
Many Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff 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
Bullmastiffs are highly sensitive to their environment, so it’s not unusual for them to develop anxiety or stress if something changes. If your Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff’s behavior and to try to alleviate any stress they may be feeling.
If you believe your Bullmastiff 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
Bullmastiffs 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 Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff licking its paws so much?
Excessive paw licking in Bullmastiffs often indicates itchiness, irritation, or pain. Common causes include allergies, skin infections, parasites, or injuries. If the behavior persists, it’s best to have your vet check for underlying issues.
2. Is it normal for Bullmastiffs to bite their paws?
Occasional licking or nibbling is normal for grooming. However, constant biting or chewing suggests discomfort, infection, or emotional stress that needs attention.
3. Can allergies cause my Bullmastiff to lick its paws?
Yes. Food or environmental allergies (like pollen, dust mites, or grass) are the top reasons dogs lick or bite their paws. Allergies often cause red, itchy, or inflamed skin between the toes.
4. Could my Bullmastiff have a paw infection?
Absolutely. Bacterial or yeast infections can develop from constant licking or trapped moisture. Signs include redness, swelling, foul odor, or discharge from the paw pads.
5. What parasites cause paw licking in Bullmastiffs?
Fleas, mites, or ticks can bite or burrow near your Bullmastiff’s paws, triggering irritation and excessive licking or biting as your dog tries to relieve the itch.
6. How can I tell if my Bullmastiff’s paw is injured?
Check for cuts, splinters, cracked pads, or lodged debris. Limping, favoring one paw, or sudden licking of a specific area usually indicates a physical injury.
7. Can anxiety make a Bullmastiff lick its paws?
Yes. Bullmastiffs may lick or bite their paws as a self-soothing behavior when stressed or bored. Separation anxiety or lack of mental stimulation can trigger this.
8. What home remedies can help my Bullmastiff stop licking its paws?
You can use paw soaks (like diluted iodine or Epsom salt), apply paw balm, and keep the paws clean and dry. Avoid harsh chemicals and consult your vet before using any products.
9. Should I use an e-collar or a cone on my Bullmastiff?
A cone or recovery collar can help stop licking temporarily, allowing the paws to heal. However, it’s a short-term fix — you still need to treat the root cause.
10. How do vets diagnose why my Bullmastiff is biting its paws?
Vets may perform skin scrapings, allergy tests, or swabs to identify infections or irritants. They’ll also check for parasites or signs of injury.
11. What foods can trigger paw licking in Bullmastiffs?
Common food allergens include beef, chicken, dairy, wheat, and soy. An elimination diet supervised by your vet can help identify problem ingredients.
12. Can weather affect my Bullmastiff’s paws?
Yes. Hot pavement, ice melt, or dry winter air can crack or burn paw pads, causing your Bullmastiff to lick or bite them for relief.
13. How can I prevent my Bullmastiff from licking its paws in the future?
Keep paws clean, moisturized, and parasite-free. Feed a balanced diet, limit exposure to allergens, and provide plenty of exercise and enrichment.
14. When should I take my Bullmastiff to the vet for paw licking?
Visit your vet if licking lasts more than a few days, or if you notice redness, swelling, bleeding, odor, or limping. These signs often require professional treatment.
15. Can constant paw licking cause long-term damage?
Yes. Chronic licking can lead to hot spots, infections, and thickened skin. The longer it continues, the harder it is to treat — so early intervention is key.
Licking their paws is a common behavior in Bullmastiffs, 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 Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff’s paws clean, pain-free, and healthy every day.
Toledo, United States.