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1. Normal Grooming Rituals

2. Antibacterial Properties of Dog Saliva

Mia's saliva contains enzymes with natural antibacterial properties, essentially turning her licking ritual into a self-made paw sanitizer. This helps whisk away unwanted debris and potential hitchhikers, ensuring her paws stay clean and infection-free. Certain proteins in dog saliva called histatins can defend against infection, and research has shown that there are other beneficial chemicals in a dog’s saliva that can help protect cuts from infection. In one 2018 study, researchers discovered that canine saliva contains various proteins, antimicrobial enzymes, and peptides that make holes in bacterial cell membranes.

3. Temperature Regulation

After an exhilarating chase of local squirrels, Mia's licking serves a dual purpose. Beyond grooming, it helps regulate her body temperature by utilizing the sweat glands present in her paw pads, providing a cool-down mechanism after energetic activities. Dogs don't have sweat glands like humans do. Instead, they regulate their body temperature by panting and licking themselves. The moisture from their tongues helps to cool them down. 

4. Allergies and Environmental Sensitivities 

Mia's vet suspects allergies, whether from the environment or her food, as a reason for her persistent paw-licking. The use of foot soaks, vinegar sprays, and hypoallergenic dog boots showcases the efforts to combat potential allergens and maintain Mia's paw health. When Mia comes inside, we spray her feet with half vinegar half water. Twice a week we try to give her foot soaks with Mal-A-Ket shampoo which helps cleanse, dry, reduce inflammation, and support healthy skin for dogs and cats with certain microbial and bacterial afflictions. We also have tried doggie boots. Mia likes BEAUTYZOO Anti Slip Dog Socks Boots. Treating allergies for dogs can get tricky; always consult your vet for the best care of your pet. For canine food allergies, your veterinarian might prescribe an elimination diet, as there is no reliable diagnostic test for diagnosing food allergens. The most common ingredients that cause food allergies in dogs are beef, soy, corn, wheat, dairy, chicken, and eggs. Environmental allergies can be tested for, but there is no cure. The three common treatment options for allergies are: 1. avoidance of the allergen 2. controlling the symptoms (itching, dry skin, etc.) 3. immunotherapy options, such as allergy shots. Usually, veterinarians use a combination of these treatment options to control canine allergies.

5. Boredom and Stress Relief

Like humans, dogs can turn to repetitive behaviors when bored or stressed. Mia's engagement in mentally stimulating activities, such as hide and seek with a bone or interactive puzzle toys, is a testament to the role mental enrichment plays in reducing boredom-related licking. When a dog is bored, it may resort to repetitive behaviors, mirroring the tendencies of an anxious dog. Excessive paw licking is a prevalent repetitive behavior observed in such cases. If you've observed your dog engaging in heightened paw licking, particularly following changes at home, reduced attention, or an increase in your absence, boredom could be the root cause. Experiment with engaging your furry friend in puzzle feeders and independent games to assess whether this alleviates the paw-licking behavior. If not, it’s possible that it’s developed into a habit, which is much harder to stop. Bitter sprays, such as Bodhi Dog Premium Bitter Apple No Chew Spray may be necessary to break the habit, but should only be used after the other causes here have been ruled out by a vet. We found success with a high quality dog training course featuring 21 Games To Improve A Dog's Intelligence And Behavior. Mia also likes Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy, Intermediate.

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6. Foreign Objects and Dry Skin Concerns 

Beyond addressing current issues, it can help to take preventive measures for maintaining paw health. A balanced diet, regular grooming, parasite prevention, and a clean-living environment are key factors in preventing dry skin and paw-related problems. Fortunately, there are numerous simple, do-it-yourself (DIY) home remedies to address paw irritation and offer your pet much-needed relief from both the paw problem and the incessant licking obsession.

1. Soak Your Dog’s Paws in a Vinegar Mix:

Temporarily alleviating your dog's paw-related issues can be achieved by applying a 50/50 mixture of apple cider vinegar and water. The tangy taste of apple cider vinegar acts as a natural deterrent, discouraging paw chewing and mitigating the risk of secondary infections. Prior to application, ensure your dog's paws are free from any cuts or scrapes for optimal results. When dealing specifically with Malassezia dermatitis, white vinegar proves most effective, whereas apple cider vinegar excels in addressing Candida albicans infections. For a comprehensive vinegar rinse, blend vinegar with water in a 1:1 ratio and apply it to the skin, allowing it to naturally air dry.

2. Use a Baking Soda Soak:

Baking soda, with its natural anti-inflammatory properties, is excellent for dogs with dry and itchy skin, reducing the temptation for paw licking. Soak your dog’s paws in a solution of half a cup of baking soda in warm water for approximately 10 minutes, repeating two to three times daily.

3. Soak Paws in Oatmeal:

Similar to its benefits for humans, oatmeal proves effective in soothing rashes and is equally beneficial for dogs. Mix two cups of natural, flavor-free oatmeal with warm water and let your dog’s paws soak for about 10 minutes, providing relief for dry and cracked skin.

4. Apply Coconut Oil:

Coconut oil, known for supporting skin health and maintaining moisture, can be applied directly to your dog’s paws or added to their food. Opt for high-quality, extra virgin, and organic coconut oil to ensure safety. Click here for Amazon Raw Paws Organic Coconut Oil. Or you can try the Natural Dog Company Skin Soother made with plant-based ingredients like chamomile, lavender, and vitamin E that is Made in the USA.

5. Reassess Your Dog’s Diet:

Excessive paw licking accompanied by frequent diarrhea may indicate food allergies. Reassess your dog's diet by switching to a simple, hypoallergenic formula to calm the immune system. Gradually reintroduce ingredients, monitoring reactions. Mia's vet recommended these Dog Fish Oil Supplement Vetoquinol Triglyceride Omega 3 Supplement for Large Dogs.

6. Try a New Dog Shampoo:

Choose a gentle dog shampoo designed for itchy skin, made with natural ingredients. The Honest Paws 5-in-1 Dog Wash, known for its moisturizing properties, can be a suitable option.

7. Try a Chamomile Bath:

Chamomile, with its antibacterial and antioxidant features, provides relief from irritation and calms anxiety associated with itchy paws. Create a chamomile bath by mixing chamomile with warm water and soaking your dog’s feet.

8. Clean-Living Environment:

Living in a clean environment is so important to your physical health as well as your pets health. Did you know that a single bacteria can grow into over eight million in a single day? In addition to keeping germs from multiplying, regular cleaning discourages insects from sharing your living quarters. Using a steam cleaner is a great method to help maintain a clean-living environment. Click here for Amazon All Natural Steam Cleaner for Home, Upholstery, Car, Floor, Grout and Tile. A great vacuum is also needed to combat pet hair, dirt, and debris.  Check out this BISSELL vacuum rated best for pet hair. Plus BISSELL supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.

9. Use Dog Booties:

Dog booties not only make it challenging for your dog to lick its paws but also protect them from irritants outdoors. Ensure a proper fit and invest in durable booties to address the root problem. Click here for Amazon Dog Boots.  For sore paws you could try AUPCON's self-adhesive bandages – an ideal solution for paw care. Made of lightweight, non-woven material, these cohesive bandages are comfortable, easy to use, and latex-free, ensuring a hassle-free experience for paw care while walking.

10. Try Applying Paw Balm:

Use paw balm specially formulated for dogs, like Natural Dog Company Skin Soother, made with plant-based ingredients like chamomile, lavender, and vitamin E that is made in the USA or Honest Paws Relief Paw Balm, made from organic ingredients. Apply it to your dog’s paw pads to alleviate skin irritations.

11. Engage With Your Dog:

Find ways to entertain your dog; we had good luck with 'Brain Training For Dogs'. It is an online course with seven modules, featuring gentle, force-free techniques and includes many games that will entertain your dog while training them to be more obedient. 

12. Try Using Hemp Oil:

Consider using CBD products for dogs, such as Charlie & Buddy Hеmp Оil, known to soothe itchy skin and relieve inflammation. Apply oil directly to itchy paws or incorporate oil into your dog’s kibble.

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