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Malteses are famously loyal and friendly, and are often seen as strong, intelligent, and protective family pets. But have you ever seen your Maltese 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 Maltese might be licking their paws. In this article, we’ll explore the four most common reasons why a Maltese might be licking their paws.
Reasons Why Your Maltese Licks and Bites Its Paws
1. Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. If a Maltese 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 Maltese 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 Maltese 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 Maltese 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 Maltese 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
Malteses are highly sensitive to their environment, so it’s not unusual for them to develop anxiety or stress if something changes. If your Maltese 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 Maltese’s behavior and to try to alleviate any stress they may be feeling.
If you believe your Maltese 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
Malteses 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 Maltese 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 is my Maltese licking its paws all the time?
Excessive paw licking in Maltese dogs is often due to allergies, dry skin, boredom, or pain or irritation. It’s important to observe when and how often it happens to identify the cause.
2. Can allergies cause a Maltese to bite or lick its paws?
Yes. Food allergies, pollen, grass, or dust mites can cause itchy skin, leading your Maltese to lick or bite its paws for relief.
3. How do I know if my Maltese has a skin allergy?
Watch for signs such as redness, swelling, constant scratching, hair loss, or small bumps on the paws or belly. A vet can confirm it with an allergy test.
4. Could paw licking mean my Maltese is in pain?
Absolutely. Your dog may be licking its paws because of an injury, splinter, insect bite, or arthritis. Check the paw pads and joints for tenderness or swelling.
5. What if my Maltese only licks one paw?
Licking or biting just one paw could mean there’s a localized issue, such as a foreign object, insect sting, or infection in that specific area.
6. Can boredom cause a Maltese to lick or bite its paws?
Yes. Maltese dogs are intelligent and social; when bored or anxious, they may develop compulsive behaviors like paw licking to self-soothe.
7. How can I stop my Maltese from licking its paws?
Address the root cause—clean paws after walks, adjust diet for allergies, provide mental stimulation, and consult a vet if the behavior persists.
8. Should I use a cone or booties to stop paw licking?
Temporary use of a cone (E-collar) or dog booties can help prevent further irritation while the underlying issue is treated, but it’s not a permanent solution.
9. Can dry skin make my Maltese lick its paws?
Yes. Dry air, over-bathing, or harsh shampoos can lead to dry, itchy skin, which often causes dogs to lick their paws excessively.
10. What home remedies help with Maltese paw irritation?
Try paw soaks in diluted apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, or dog-safe moisturizers. Always confirm with your vet before using home remedies.
11. Are Maltese more prone to paw allergies than other breeds?
Yes, Malteses have sensitive skin and are somewhat predisposed to allergies due to their fine coat and delicate skin barrier.
12. Can diet affect my Maltese’s paw licking habits?
Definitely. Food sensitivities to ingredients like chicken, wheat, or soy can trigger allergic reactions that cause itching and paw licking.
13. How can I clean my Maltese’s paws safely?
Use lukewarm water, hypoallergenic wipes, or a gentle paw cleanser after walks to remove dirt, allergens, and irritants.
14. When should I see a vet about my Maltese licking its paws?
If the licking becomes constant, causes redness, bleeding, or hair loss, or if your dog seems in pain, consult a vet immediately.
15. Will paw licking go away on its own?
Sometimes minor irritation resolves quickly, but if the licking continues for more than a few days, it’s a sign of an underlying problem that needs attention.
Licking their paws is a common behavior in Malteses, 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 Maltese 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 Bichon Frise 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 Bichon’s paws clean, pain-free, and healthy every day.
Toledo, United States.