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Akitas are famously loyal and friendly, and are often seen as strong, intelligent, and protective family pets. But have you ever seen your Akita 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 an Akita might be licking their paws. In this article, we’ll explore the four most common reasons why an Akita might be licking their paws.
Reasons Why Your Akita Licks and Bites Its Paws
1. Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. If an Akita 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 Akita 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 Akita 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 an Akita 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 Akita 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
Akitas are highly sensitive to their environment, so it’s not unusual for them to develop anxiety or stress if something changes. If your Akita 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 Akita’s behavior and to try to alleviate any stress they may be feeling.
If you believe your Akita 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
Akitas 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 Akita 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)
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Frequently Asked Questions About Licking or Biting Its Paws
1. Why is my Akita constantly licking its paws?
Excessive paw licking in Akitas can be caused by allergies, irritation, dry skin, or even boredom. It’s a sign that something is bothering your dog — either physically or emotionally.
2. Can allergies make my Akita bite or chew its paws?
Yes. Environmental allergens like pollen, grass, or dust mites can trigger itching. Food allergies can also lead to skin irritation and paw biting.
3. How can I tell if my Akita’s paw licking is due to an allergy?
If your Akita licks or bites its paws seasonally, after walks, or develops red, inflamed skin between the toes, allergies are a likely cause. A vet can confirm with tests.
4. Could anxiety cause my Akita to lick or chew its paws?
Absolutely. Akitas are intelligent and loyal dogs that can develop anxiety or boredom when left alone. Excessive paw licking can be a self-soothing behavior.
5. What if my Akita’s paws are red or swollen?
Redness, swelling, or discharge may indicate infection or injury. Clean the area gently and see a vet immediately to prevent the problem from worsening.
6. Are parasites a common reason for paw licking in Akitas?
Yes. Fleas, ticks, or mites can cause irritation that leads your Akita to bite or lick its paws excessively. Regular parasite prevention is key.
7. Can dry skin cause an Akita to lick its paws?
Dry or cracked paw pads can itch or sting, prompting licking. Using a vet-approved paw balm or moisturizer can help soothe and protect the skin.
8. How can I stop my Akita from biting its paws?
Identify and treat the root cause — allergies, parasites, or behavioral triggers. Providing more exercise, enrichment, and vet care usually helps.
9. Should I use a cone or protective booties on my Akita?
If your Akita is injuring itself from constant licking, protective gear can prevent further damage while you treat the underlying issue.
10. How do I treat a paw infection in my Akita?
Only a veterinarian can properly diagnose and prescribe treatment. This may include antibiotics, medicated wipes, or topical ointments.
11. Can diet affect my Akita’s paw health?
Yes. A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids supports healthy skin and reduces inflammation, which may help prevent paw-licking behavior.
12. Are Akitas more prone to allergies than other breeds?
Akitas can be sensitive to certain foods and environmental factors, though not necessarily more so than other breeds. Their thick coat can trap allergens, worsening symptoms.
13. When should I take my Akita to the vet for paw licking?
If licking is frequent, causes redness or bleeding, or persists for more than a few days, schedule a vet visit to rule out infection or underlying illness.
14. Can grooming help reduce paw licking?
Yes. Regular paw cleaning after walks, trimming hair between pads, and checking for debris can prevent irritation and reduce licking.
15. Is paw licking in Akitas ever normal?
Occasional licking for cleaning is normal. However, persistent or obsessive licking usually signals discomfort and shouldn’t be ignored.
Licking their paws is a common behavior in Akitas, 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 Akita 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 Akita 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 Akita’s paws clean, pain-free, and healthy every day.
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