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English Springer Spaniels are famously loyal and friendly, and are often seen as strong, intelligent, and protective family pets. But have you ever seen your English Springer Spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel might be licking their paws. In this article, we’ll explore the four most common reasons why an English Springer Spaniel might be licking their paws.
Reasons Why Your English Springer Spaniel Licks and Bites Its Paws
1. Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. If an English Springer Spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel 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
English Springer Spaniels are highly sensitive to their environment, so it’s not unusual for them to develop anxiety or stress if something changes. If your English Springer Spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel’s behavior and to try to alleviate any stress they may be feeling.
If you believe your English Springer Spaniel 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
English Springer Spaniels 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 English Springer Spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel licking its paws so much?
Excessive licking is often a sign of allergies, skin irritation, or discomfort. Common causes include food sensitivities, pollen, grass, or chemical exposure from cleaning products.
2. Could allergies cause my Springer Spaniel to bite its paws?
Yes. Environmental or food allergies are the top reasons Springer Spaniels lick or chew their paws. You may notice symptoms like redness, itching, or constant nibbling after outdoor walks or meals.
3. How can I tell if it’s a skin infection or just dryness?
A skin infection often comes with redness, swelling, odor, or discharge, while dryness appears as flaky or cracked skin. If you see pus or persistent irritation, contact your vet.
4. Can paw licking be caused by boredom or anxiety?
Absolutely. Behavioral licking happens when Springer Spaniels feel bored, anxious, or understimulated. Providing toys, mental challenges, and more exercise can reduce this habit.
5. What environmental triggers should I look for?
Triggers include grass pollen, dust mites, floor cleaners, or deicing salts. Rinsing your dog’s paws after walks and using hypoallergenic wipes can help prevent irritation.
6. Are parasites like fleas or mites a possible reason?
Yes. Fleas, ticks, or mites can cause intense itching that leads to paw chewing. Check your dog’s paws and coat regularly and keep them on a vet-approved parasite prevention plan.
7. Could a foreign object be stuck in my dog’s paw?
Sometimes a small pebble, thorn, or burr can get lodged between paw pads. Inspect carefully and remove it gently — if swelling or bleeding persists, see a vet.
8. What home remedies can help stop paw licking?
You can try paw soaks (in diluted iodine or Epsom salt), dog-safe moisturizers, and keeping paws clean and dry. However, always identify the root cause first to avoid masking symptoms.
9. When should I take my Springer Spaniel to the vet?
If licking continues for more than a few days, or if you notice bleeding, limping, swelling, or infection, consult your vet promptly. Persistent licking can worsen skin conditions.
10. Can diet affect my dog’s paw health?
Yes. Poor nutrition or food allergies (like chicken, beef, or grains) can lead to inflammation and itching. A balanced, vet-approved diet with omega fatty acids supports healthy skin and paws.
11. How do I prevent future paw licking?
Regular paw cleaning, grooming, allergy management, and exercise are key. Use dog boots in harsh weather and avoid exposure to chemicals or allergens.
12. Do English Springer Spaniels have sensitive skin?
Yes. The breed is prone to skin allergies and sensitivities, especially from pollen or certain foods. Regular grooming and vet checkups help manage this.
13. Can licking or biting paws cause long-term damage?
Chronic licking can lead to hot spots, infections, or thickened skin. Addressing the cause early prevents pain and costly treatments later.
14. Should I use an Elizabethan collar (cone) to stop licking?
You can temporarily use an E-collar or soft cone to prevent further irritation while treating the root cause. Avoid relying on it as a long-term solution.
15. What are the four main reasons an English Springer Spaniel licks or bites its paws?
The four most common causes are:
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Allergies (food or environmental)
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Parasites or infections
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Behavioral issues (anxiety or boredom)
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Physical irritants (injury or debris)
Identifying which one applies helps you take the right action for your dog’s comfort and health.
Licking their paws is a common behavior in English Springer Spaniels, 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 English Springer Spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel 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 English Springer Spaniel’s paws clean, pain-free, and healthy every day.
Toledo, United States.