What Does It Mean When My Dog Licks His Paws Alot. If your dog suddenly starts licking his paws then it is usually indicative of pain especially if he is licking only one paw. Cheri Wulff Lucas a dog behavior specialist and rescuer suggests that the most common reason for dogs to lick their paws is because something is on or in them. Allergies and parasites can cause itchy paws and aggressive licking. Treat symptoms with an all-natural balm.
Some dogs lick their paws because they dont have anything better to do. Your veterinarian is correct that licking can also be a sign of an underlying health problem. You may notice other symptoms such as reddening skin or raised bumps. If licked further and undetected the area hardens up and sometimes the skin breaks and bleeds. If he is licking between his toes for instance it would be logical to check that area to see if there is a burr a splinter or a sore that he is worrying. An easy sign to miss but dogs licking paws is regularly associated with allergies.
Allergies and parasites can cause itchy paws and aggressive licking.
If the paw pad is cut or bleeding then your dog is probably licking to clean the wound. Its not unusual for dogs to lick areas of the body that are itchy or painful. Dogs often lick their paws excessively if they are itchy irritated or painful. As with other dog. If licked further and undetected the area hardens up and sometimes the skin breaks and bleeds. Or he could have been stung or bitten by an insect or another animal.