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Chinese Cresteds are famously loyal and friendly, and are often seen as strong, intelligent, and protective family pets. But have you ever seen your Chinese Crested 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 Chinese Crested might be licking its paws. In this article, we’ll explore the four most common reasons why a Chinese Crested might be licking their paws.
Reasons Why Your Chinese Crested Licks and Bites Its Paws
1. Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. If a Chinese Crested is licking its 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 Chinese Crested 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 Chinese Crested 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 Chinese Crested 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 Chinese Crested is licking its 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
Chinese Cresteds are highly sensitive to their environment, so it’s not unusual for them to develop anxiety or stress if something changes. If your Chinese Crested is licking its 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 Chinese Crested’s behavior and to try to alleviate any stress they may be feeling.
If you believe your Chinese Crested 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
Chinese Cresteds 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 Chinese Crested 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 Chinese Crested constantly licking its paws?
Excessive paw licking in Chinese Cresteds can be due to allergies, skin irritation, parasites, or anxiety. Identifying the root cause early helps prevent infection and discomfort.
2. Can allergies cause a Chinese Crested to bite or chew its paws?
Yes. Environmental or food allergies are a leading cause of paw biting. Common triggers include pollen, grass, dust mites, chicken, or grains in their diet.
3. How do I know if my dog’s paw-licking is due to allergies or an infection?
If you notice redness, swelling, odor, or discharge, it may indicate a yeast or bacterial infection rather than just allergies. A vet visit and possible lab test can confirm the cause.
4. Could fleas or mites make my Chinese Crested lick its paws?
Absolutely. Parasites like fleas, mites, or ticks can irritate the skin, leading to intense itching and constant licking. Regular flea prevention helps avoid this issue.
5. Are Chinese Cresteds more prone to skin issues than other breeds?
Yes. The hairless variety of the Chinese Crested has more exposed skin, making it more vulnerable to dryness, irritation, and environmental allergens.
6. What kind of allergies affect Chinese Cresteds most often?
They’re especially prone to contact allergies (like grass or cleaning products) and food sensitivities. Switching to a hypoallergenic diet can sometimes reduce paw licking.
7. Can boredom cause my Chinese Crested to bite or lick its paws?
Yes. Chinese Cresteds are intelligent and social. When left alone too long or not mentally stimulated, they may develop compulsive behaviors like paw licking.
8. Is it normal for a Chinese Crested to groom its paws occasionally?
Occasional licking is normal, but constant, obsessive licking or biting is a sign of discomfort or stress and shouldn’t be ignored.
9. What can happen if I ignore my dog’s paw-licking habit?
Prolonged licking can lead to sores, infections, and thickened skin. Left untreated, it may become a chronic behavioral or medical issue.
10. What home remedies can I try before going to the vet?
You can clean the paws with mild, pet-safe wipes, check for debris, and use a vet-approved paw balm. However, avoid human creams or antibiotics without a vet’s advice.
11. How can I prevent my Chinese Crested from licking its paws excessively?
Keep their paws clean and dry, use hypoallergenic shampoo, provide balanced nutrition, and ensure they get enough exercise and mental enrichment.
12. Should I use an e-collar to stop my dog from licking its paws?
An Elizabethan collar (cone) can temporarily stop licking and give time for healing, but it’s not a long-term fix. Always treat the underlying cause first.
13. Can diet changes help reduce paw licking in Chinese Cresteds?
Yes. Switching to grain-free, single-protein, or hypoallergenic diets can help if food allergies are the cause. Consult your vet before making any changes.
14. When should I take my Chinese Crested to the vet for paw licking?
If your dog’s licking leads to hair loss, redness, swelling, or bleeding, or lasts more than a few days, schedule a vet visit immediately.
15. What treatments are available for a paw-licking Chinese Crested?
Treatment depends on the cause — antihistamines or allergy shots for allergies, antifungal or antibacterial medication for infections, or behavioral therapy for anxiety-related cases.
Licking their paws is a common behavior in Chinese Cresteds, 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 Chinese Crested 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 Chinese Crested 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 Chinese Crested’s paws clean, pain-free, and healthy every day.
Toledo, United States.