For most of us, our furry companions are the light of our lives and we want to know and understand everything about them.
Since our four-legged friends can’t speak to us, pet owners are always on the lookout for signs and changes in behaviour that can shed some insight into what our fur babies are trying to tell us — particularly when it comes to their health.
Now, a pet expert is alerting dog owners to an extremely common — and seemingly harmless — action our pets perform daily, which could be hinting at something a little more sinister beneath the surface.
Dog owners are being encouraged to take paw licking seriously as the autumn and winter months approach. Harry Chapman, General Director at DotDotPet, cautions that what may appear like a quirky habit could actually be a sign of underlying health issues.
The expert said: “Paw licking isn’t just a quirky behaviour — it’s your dog telling you something important about their health. Many owners dismiss paw licking as boredom, but it can be an early warning sign of discomfort or inflammation.”
With appropriate care, natural support, and preventative measures, pet owners can ensure their pets remain happy and comfortable as the seasons change.
Impact of chilly, damp conditions on paws
Chilly, wet conditions can cause painful skin, inflamed paws, and digestive problems in dogs. Persistent moisture from rainfall, puddles, mud, and frost can weaken paw pads, leaving them vulnerable to inflammation or minor splits.
Moving between the frigid, soggy outdoors and cosy, heated indoors can also dehydrate your pet’s skin, causing their paws to become itchy – much like how people frequently experience cracked lips or parched hands during winter. Both situations can result in dogs constantly licking their paws to ease pain and inflammation.
Seasonal shifts affect dogs too
Just as humans experience joint stiffness in colder months, dogs also respond to seasonal changes. Paw licking often increases in dogs during autumn and winter — frequently signalling discomfort, not boredom.
Chapman shares: “Statistics show that paw licking spikes in autumn and winter. Dogs often become slower on walks and spend more time licking their paws — these are signs of discomfort, not mischief.”
Turn to natural remedies for dogs
Chapman suggests plasma supplements to combat seasonal discomfort. Plasma supplements can naturally decrease inflammation and boost skin, joint, and digestive health.
The expert shares: “These supplements reduce inflammation naturally while supporting skin, gut, and joint health. We’ve seen excellent results in dogs experiencing autumn itchiness.”
Alongside supplements, these straightforward measures can significantly improve your beloved furry companion’s paw health and help prevent seasonal discomfort:
Wash: Washing your pet’s paws following outdoor excursions is a simple and effective method to eliminate allergens or irritants that may have built up during your pet’s time outdoors.
Dry: Once rinsed, it’s imperative to dry your pet’s paws thoroughly – using eco towels is ideal. Dry the paws completely and make sure to pay special attention to the areas between your dogs toes as moisture can linger there and cause sores or irritation.
Protective balm: Before taking your dog out for a walk, apply a protective paw balm to their pads to create a moisturising barrier which will prevent irritation and cracking.
Trim paw hair: Regularly trim your dog’s paw hair and keep the fur between their paw pads trimmed short. This helps to prevent mud, dirt, snow, and ice from getting trapped and building up between their paws which can not only be uncomfortable, but also lead to irritation or infections.
Excess licking: Monitor for excessive licking and keep an eye out if there’s any change in your dog’s behaviour.
De-icing agents: In the winter, it’s crucial to watch out for de-icing agents on roads and pathways as they are highly toxic to animals if ingested – be mindful about where you take your pet for a walk.
Vet visit: Always consult a vet if any new symptoms appear.