Why Do Dogs Bite Their Paws? Causes, Concerns and What to Do About It

It’s a familiar sight to many pet parents—you glance over and notice your pup chewing on their paw like it’s the most natural thing in the world. But is it normal? And if it’s not, what’s going on?

Dogs may bite or chew their paws for a number of reasons, some totally harmless and others that need a little more attention. In this blog, we’ll walk through the possible causes, when to worry and how to help your dog find relief.

Why Is My Dog Biting or Chewing Their Paws?

A dog occasionally licking or nibbling at their paws isn’t necessarily a cause for concern. Just like people might scratch an itch or pick at dry skin, dogs have their own ways of dealing with minor discomfort. However, when the behavior becomes frequent, obsessive or intense, it may be a sign of something more serious. The key is to observe how often your dog is doing it and whether it’s affecting their mood, mobility or skin health.

Common Reasons Dogs Chew or Bite Their Paws

Paw chewing can stem from a variety of physical or emotional causes. Here are some of the most common culprits:

· Allergies

Whether environmental (like pollen), food-related or caused by something in your home, allergies are a leading cause of paw chewing. Dogs often react to allergens by licking and biting at their paws to relieve the itch.

· Injuries or Irritations

A small cut, splinter, insect bite or something stuck in the paw pad can drive your dog to chew at the area. Even walking on hot pavement or salted winter sidewalks can cause irritation.

· Parasites

Fleas, ticks or mites can cause intense itching. Mites (like those that cause mange) often burrow into the skin between the toes, leading to serious paw chewing.

· Anxiety or Boredom

Dogs sometimes chew their paws as a self-soothing behavior when they’re anxious, stressed or simply bored. It’s much like how some people bite their nails—something to do in moments of nervous energy.

· Dry Skin or Dermatitis

Dry, flaky or inflamed skin can be incredibly uncomfortable. Conditions like atopic dermatitis or reactions to grooming products can lead your dog to gnaw at their paws.

· Nail or Paw Pad Issues

Overgrown nails, cracked paw pads or even growths like cysts can cause discomfort. If your dog seems focused on one specific paw, it’s worth checking their pads and nails closely.

Should I Be Worried if My Dog Is Biting Their Paws?

Not all paw chewing is a red flag. But if your dog is chewing so often that their skin is becoming raw, red or inflamed—or if they seem distressed—it’s time to take action.

Here are some signs you should talk to your vet:

• Persistent licking, biting or chewing that doesn’t let up
• Bleeding, swelling or open sores
• Hair loss around the paws
• Limping or signs of pain
• A strong odor coming from the paws

These symptoms could point to a medical issue that needs treatment, such as an infection, allergy or even something more complex like autoimmune skin disease.

What to Do if Your Dog Keeps Chewing Their Paws

The first step is identifying the root cause. While some cases can be resolved at home, others require a trip to the vet. Here are a few things you can try:

• Inspect the paws for visible injuries, objects or signs of infection
• Clean their paws with a gentle pet-safe wipe or paw wash after walks
• Try an Elizabethan collar or booties to prevent excessive chewing
• Add enrichment like puzzle toys or extra playtime if boredom is a trigger
• Adjust their diet or ask your vet about allergy testing if you suspect food allergies
• Apply a vet-recommended moisturizer if dry skin is the issue

If you're unsure or your dog’s condition isn’t improving, don’t wait too long. Your veterinarian can run tests and prescribe medication if necessary to relieve the discomfort.

Helping Your Dog Stay Happy and Healthy

Watching your dog chew or bite at their paws can be concerning, but you’re not alone—and in many cases, there’s a simple solution. Keep an eye on the behavior, check their paws regularly and don’t hesitate to ask your vet for help if things seem off.

A little awareness goes a long way in helping your pup stay comfortable and healthy all the way down to their paws.