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There are many existing and new dog dental chews out there, with some claiming to freshen your dog's breath, remove plaque, etc. With the wide selection of dental chews, dog owners have a choice of chews of different flavours that are 100% natural or developed by vets and nutritionists.
A common question arises as to whether dog dental chews really work to help with cleaning your dog's teeth. With the popularity of dental chews, dog owners worry about which dental chews are even good for their dog and if using daily dental chews means they can stop brushing their dog's teeth.
Dogs may chew and lick their paws due to various common skin issues. Understanding these concerns is crucial if you want to ensure your furry friends are happy and healthy.
Allergies, a common culprit, can drive your dog to chew their paws incessantly. In a study it was found that allergies to dogs affected 10%-20% of the population worldwide. Understanding and managing allergies is crucial for your dog's well-being, whether triggered by food, pollen, or other allergens.
Other potential symptoms:
Paw licking or chewing.
Skin redness and irritation.
Digestive issues.
What you can do to treat allergies:
Conduct an elimination diet for suspected food allergies.
Minimise exposure to environmental triggers.
Consult with a vet to explore allergy testing and tailored treatment options.
Dermatitis in dogs can be a key reason behind paw-chewing tendencies. A study found that up to 30% of the canine population are affected by canine atopic dermatitis. This inflammatory skin condition often arises due to allergens in the environment or food, exposure or irritating substances, or flea or tick infestations.
Other potential symptoms:
Itchy and red skin.
Swelling or rash.
Hair loss in affected areas.
What you can do to treat dermatitis:
Identify and eliminate potential allergens.
Regularly groom your dog to prevent parasite infestations.
Consult with a vet for a precise diagnosis and treatment plan.
Acute dermatitis intensifies the itching and discomfort. This rapid-onset inflammation can be caused by an allergic reaction, a sudden exposure to irritants or, contact with toxic plants or substances.
Other potential symptoms:
Intense itching.
Redness and inflammation.
Paw swelling.
What you can do to treat acute dermatitis:
Identify and eliminate the source of irritation.
Bathe your dog with a soothing, hypoallergenic shampoo.
Seek immediate veterinary guidance for a comprehensive treatment plan.
Cysts can be an unexpected source of paw discomfort. These fluid-filled sacs beneath the skin can be caused by blocked oil glands, trauma, injury or genetics.
Other potential symptoms:
Small, raised bumps on the paw.
Swelling or tenderness.
Occasionally, discharge from the cyst.
What you can do to treat cysts:
Avoid squeezing or attempting to drain the cyst.
Monitor for changes in size or appearance.
Consult with a vet for proper diagnosis and potential removal.
Bacterial and yeast infections can result from moist environments, scratches, wounds or a weakened immune system, emphasising the need for prompt identification and treatment.
Other potential symptoms:
Red and inflamed paw.
Unpleasant odour.
Discharge or pus.
What you can do to treat bacterial/yeast infection:
Keep the paws clean and dry.
Avoid over-bathing, which can strip natural oils.
Consult with a vet for a definitive diagnosis and prescribed medications.
Dogs, like humans, can suffer from dry skin caused by weather changes, allergies and bathing too frequently. This can lead to itchiness and paw-chewing tendencies. Nourishing your dog's skin is vital to preventing discomfort.
Other potential symptoms:
Flaky or scaly skin.
Dull coat.
Excessive scratching.
What you can do to treat dry skin:
Use a moisturising, dog-friendly shampoo.
Add a fatty acid supplement to their diet, such as Salmon Oil for dogs.
Consult with a vet to rule out underlying health issues.
Understanding the cause of the blister on your dog's paw is crucial. Whether your dog got the blister from a burn, allergic reaction or from friction/pressure, taking proactive measures is essential for your dog's well-being.
Other potential symptoms:
Fluid-filled sacs on the paw.
Redness and tenderness.
Impaired walking or limping.
What you can do to treat blisters:
Keep the affected paw clean and dry.
Avoid popping the blister.
Consult with a vet for guidance on treatment and prevention.
Burns on your dog's paws can lead to noticeable discomfort and paw-chewing behaviour. Your dog can get a burn from chemical exposure, scalding liquids or, hot surfaces such as the pavement or sand.
Other potential symptoms:
Redness or discolouration of the paw.
Swelling and pain.
Blisters and peeling skin.
What you can do to treat burns:
Cool the burned paw with lukewarm water.
Avoid applying ice directly.
Seek immediate veterinary attention for severe burns.
Hot spots, or acute moist dermatitis, can cause intense itching. It's usually caused by allergies or infections. Prompt attention is crucial to prevent these spots from worsening.
Other potential symptoms:
Moist, red, and inflamed skin.
Hair loss around the affected area.
Rapid development and spread.
What you can do to treat hot spots:
Keep the area clean and dry.
Avoid your dog licking or scratching the spot.
Consult with a vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
It is important to identify whether your dog's discomfort and paw-licking are from insect bites; promptly addressing them is essential for your dog's comfort.
Other potential symptoms:
Red, raised bumps on the paw.
Allergic reactions.
Itching and scratching.
What you can do to treat insect bites:
Use flea preventatives.
Regularly inspect your dog for signs of infestations.
Consult with a vet for proper treatment is bites are causing irritation.
Fungal infections can contribute to persistent paw-chewing behaviour. Your dog may get a fungal infection from exposure to moisture, poor hygiene or a weakened immune system. Seeking appropriate treatment is crucial.
Other potential symptoms:
Red, itchy skin.
Paw swelling.
Discharge or unusual odour.
What you can do to treat fungal infections:
Keep your dog's paws clean and dry.
Avoid environments conducive to fungal growth.
Consult with a vet for accurate diagnosis and antifungal treatment.
Contact dermatitis, caused by exposure to harsh chemicals, certain plants or allergens in the environment can be very uncomfortable for your dog. Identifying and eliminating the source of irritation is vital.
Other potential symptoms:
Red, inflamed skin.
Itching and discomfort.
Rash or blisters.
What you can do to treat contact dermatitis:
Identify and eliminate the source of irritation.
Rinse your dog's paws with mild, dog-friendly shampoo.
Consult with a a vet for guidance on managing contact dermatitis.
Whilst paw-chewing in dogs is often associated with skin issues, sometimes the root of the problem lies closer to the ground, their nails. Understanding the potential nail-related causes can help you keep your furry friend's paws healthy and happy.
Overgrown nails are most likely uncomfortable for your dog. If your dog's nails are overgrown, they can split or be torn off, leading to worse issues. Regular nail maintenance is crucial for preventing these issues.
Broken or loose nails can cause persistent discomfort and may lead to your dog chewing their paws and nails. Recognising and addressing these issues promptly is essential for their well-being.
Establish a regular nail-trimming routine.
Use a proper technique to avoid cutting into the quick.
If unsure, seek guidance from a professional groomer or veterinarian.
Inspect your dog's paws regularly.
Keep their environment free of potential hazards.
Seek prompt veterinary attention for badly broken or loose nails.
Overgrown nails are most likely uncomfortable for your dog. If your dog's nails are overgrown, they can split or be torn off, leading to worse issues. Regular nail maintenance is crucial for preventing these issues.
Other potential symptoms:
Difficulty walking.
Clicking sound when walking on hard surfaces.
Paw sensitivity.
What you can do to treat overgrown nails:
Establish a regular nail-trimming routine.
Use a proper technique to avoid cutting into the quick.
If unsure, seek guidance from a professional groomer or veterinarian.
Broken or loose nails can cause persistent discomfort and may lead to your dog chewing their paws and nails. Recognising and addressing these issues promptly is essential for their well-being.
Other potential symptoms:
Limping or favouring one paw.
Visible cracks or splits in the nail.
What you can do to treat broken/loose nails:
Inspect your dog's paws regularly.
Keep their environment free of potential hazards.
Seek prompt veterinary attention for badly broken or loose nails.
Whilst your dog's paws are their connection to the world, the environment they navigate can sometimes be the source of discomfort. Let's explore how environmental factors might be behind your dog's paw-chewing habits.
Dust mites, those microscopic troublemakers, can trigger discomfort for your dog. Especially in their paws. Understanding and addressing these environmental irritants is vital to keeping those paws happy.
Foreign objects, like thorns or debris, can turn a pleasant walk into a worrying ordeal. Learning to navigate and prevent these environmental hazards is critical.
Regularly clean and vacuum your home.
Provide a clean and dust-free sleeping area for your dog.
Consult with a vet for allergy testing and management strategies.
Inspect your dog's paw after outdoor activities.
Seek prompt veterinary attention for any lodged foreign objects.
Dust mites, those microscopic troublemakers, can trigger discomfort for your dog. Especially in their paws. Understanding and addressing these environmental irritants is vital to keeping those paws happy.
Other potential symptoms:
Excessive paw licking.
Redness or irritation on the paws.
Sneezing or nasal discharge.
What you can do to treat dust mites:
Regularly clean and vacuum your home.
Provide a clean and dust-free sleeping area for your dog.
Consult with a vet for allergy testing and management strategies.
Foreign objects, like thorns or debris, can turn a pleasant walk into a worrying ordeal. Learning to navigate and prevent these environmental hazards is critical.
Potential symptoms:
Sudden limping or favouring one paw.
Visible foreign objects stuck in the paw.
Paw licking and biting.
What you can do:
Inspect your dog's paw after outdoor activities.
Seek prompt veterinary attention for any lodged foreign objects.
Sometimes, your dog's paws become a source of comfort in moments of stress or boredom. Understanding these behavioural triggers is essential to ensure your furry friend's emotional well-being.
For our four-legged friends, boredom can be a powerful motivator to turn those paws into a chew toy. Boredom can be caused by a variety of factors such as an insufficient amount of physical exercise, lack of mental stimulation or, long periods of solitude.
Anxiety can manifest in various ways. Separation anxiety, fear of loud noises and changed in routine or environment are just a few causes for anxiety in dogs. Addressing the underlying anxiety is crucial for your dog's well-being.
Stress can lead to paw-chewing as a physical manifestation of inner turmoil. Identifying and alleviating sources of stress can bring relief to those busy paws and just as importantly, to your dog's overall well-being.
Provide your dog with interactive toys and puzzles.
Increase daily exercise and playtime.
If you have to leave your dog alone for long periods of time, consider a dog walker or pet sitter for companionship.
Establish a consistent routine.
Use calming treats or supplements (under veterinary guidance).
Try start to gradually desensitise your dog to triggers that cause their anxiety or stress.
Create a calm and secure environment for your dog to retreat to.
Consult with a vet or behaviourist for a thorough examination and behaviour advice.
For our four-legged friends, boredom can be a powerful motivator to turn those paws into a chew toy. Boredom can be caused by a variety of factors such as an insufficient amount of physical exercise, lack of mental stimulation or, long periods of solitude.
Other potential symptoms:
Excessive chewing on various objects.
Restlessness or pacing.
Attention-seeking behaviour.
What you can do to treat boredom:
Provide interactive toys and puzzles.
Increase daily exercise and playtime.
If you have to leave your dog alone for long periods of time, consider a dog walker or pet sitter for companionship.
Anxiety can manifest in various ways. Separation anxiety, fear of loud noises and changed in routine or environment are just a few causes for anxiety in dogs. Addressing the underlying anxiety is crucial for your dog's well-being.
Other potential symptoms:
Excessive panting or drooling.
Destructive behaviour.
Withdrawal or clinginess.
What you can do to treat anxiety:
Establish a consistent routine.
Use calming products or supplements (under veterinary guidance).
Gradual desensitisation to anxiety triggers.
Stress can lead to paw-chewing as a physical manifestation of inner turmoil. Identifying and alleviating sources of stress can bring relief to those busy paws and just as importantly, to your dog's overall well-being.
Other potential symptoms:
Changes in appetite.
Excessive grooming in other areas.
Avoidance behaviour.
What you can do to treat stress:
Create a calm and secure environment for your dog to retreat to.
Consult with a vet or behaviourist for a thorough examination and behaviour advice.
Your dog's paws can often reveal insights into their overall health. Let's explore internal factors that might be causing your dog to chew on their paws, ensuring a holistic approach to their well-being.
Sometimes, your dog's dinner can be the culprit behind their paw-chewing habits. Did you know that food allergies account for around 10% of allergies in pets? Your dog may have a sensitivity to certain ingredients, or they may have been overexposed to a particular protein source. Uncovering and managing potential food allergies is important.
Autoimmune diseases can impact various parts of your dog's body. Early detection and veterinary intervention are crucial.
Hormonal imbalances can disrupt your dog's well-being and is usually caused by thyroid disease, endocrine system dysfunction or reproductive hormone imbalances.
Switch to a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet.
Monitor ingredient labels.
Consult with a vet for allergy testing and a tailored diet plan.
Maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Regular hormonal screenings, especially for certain breeds.
Medication or hormonal therapy under veterinary guidance.
Sometimes, your dog's dinner can be the culprit behind their paw-chewing habits. Did you know that food allergies account for around 10% of allergies in pets? Your dog may have a sensitivity to certain ingredients, or they may have been overexposed to a particular protein source. Uncovering and managing potential food allergies is important.
Other potential symptoms:
Itchy skin and ears.
Digestive issues (vomiting, diarrhoea).
Dull coat or excessive shedding.
What you can do to treat food allergies:
Switch to a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet.
Monitor ingredient labels.
Consult with a vet for allergy testing and a tailored diet plan.
Autoimmune diseases can impact various parts of your dog's body. Early detection and veterinary intervention are crucial.
Other potential symptoms:
Lethargy and weakness.
Swollen joints or lameness.
Recurrent infections.
What you can do to treat autoimmune disease:
Regular veterinary check-ups for early detection.
Follow prescribed treatment plans diligently.
Maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Hormonal imbalances can disrupt your dog's well-being and is usually caused by thyroid disease, endocrine system dysfunction or reproductive hormone imbalances.
Other potential symptoms:
Changes in weight or appetite.
Skin Abnormalities.
Changes in behaviour or energy levels.
What you can do to treat hormonal issues:
Regular hormonal screenings, especially for certain breeds.
Medication or hormonal therapy under veterinary guidance.
Provide a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Sometimes, the tiny invaders can turn your dog's paws into their favourite snack. Let's explore how parasites and tick issues might be behind your dog's paw-chewing, ensuring a swift and effective solution.
Parasites, such as fleas and mites, can wreak havoc on your dog's paws, triggering persistent itching and paw-chewing. A study found the prevalence of parasites was 15.5% in homed dogs. Battling these tiny foes is crucial for your dog's comfort.
Ticks are very easy for dogs to pick up and can be more than just outdoor nuisances. In the UK 1 in 3 dogs are carrying ticks; they can lead to persistent paw-chewing. Preventing tick issues is essential.
Regular use of flea and tick preventatives.
Groom and inspect your dog's coat regularly.
Consult with a vet for proper parasite control.
Inspect your dog for ticks after outdoor activities.
Parasites, such as fleas and mites, can wreak havoc on your dog's paws, triggering persistent itching and paw-chewing. A study found the prevalence of parasites was 15.5% in homed dogs. Battling these tiny foes is crucial for your dog's comfort.
Other potential symptoms:
Visible parasites on the fur or skin.
Red and irritated skin.
Hair loss and scabs.
What you can do to treat parasites:
Regular use of flea and tick preventatives.
Grooming and inspecting your dog's coat regularly.
Consult with a vet for proper parasite control.
Ticks are very easy for dogs to pick up and can be more than just outdoor nuisances. In the UK 1 in 3 dogs are carrying ticks; they can lead to persistent paw-chewing. Preventing tick issues is essential.
Other potential symptoms:
Visible ticks attached to the skin.
Redness or swelling at tick bite sites.
Lethargy and fever.
What you can do to treat ticks:
Use tick preventatives recommended by your vet.
Inspect your dog for ticks after outdoor activities.
Be aware of tick-borne diseases and seek prompt veterinary attention if any symptoms arise.
Nobody wants to see their furry friend in discomfort. Here are effective strategies to keep those paws healthy and free from the frustration of excessive chewing.
Certain medications can offer relief when it comes to preventing your dog from chewing their paws. Consult with your vet to explore suitable options tailored to your dog's needs.
Prevention tips:
Regular veterinary check-ups for early detection.
Prescribed medications for underlying issues.
Follow the vet's recommendations for dosage and administration.
Apple cider vinegar, a natural remedy, can play a role in preventing paw chewing. Incorporate it into your dog's routine under vet supervision for potential benefits.
Prevention tips:
Dilute apple cider vinegar in water.
Use a solution to clean and soothe your dog's paws.
Consult with your vet for proper usage and concentrations.
Behavioural training is a powerful tool to prevent paw-chewing. By redirecting your dog's focus and rewarding good behaviour, you can use positive reinforcement to create better habits.
Prevention tips:
Identify triggers and redirect attention.
Use positive reinforcement techniques.
Consistently reinforce good behaviour.
Maintaining good hygiene is essential in preventing paw issues. Regular cleaning and inspection can help catch potential problems before they escalate.
Prevention tips:
Regularly inspect your dog's paws for signs of irritation.
Clean paws after walks, especially in dirty or allergen-prone areas.
Keep paw fur trimmed to prevent debris collection.
Yes, dog treats can serve as an effective distraction from paw-chewing. Chewing on a flavourful treat not only redirects your dog's attention but also reinforces positive behaviour. Specifically, fish dog treats, with their irresistible flavour and added health benefits, offer a satisfying and engaging experience that can help break the cycle of paw-chewing. From occupying boredom to providing a delightful chew, these treats play a crucial role in fostering a positive association and steering your dog away from the paw-chewing habit.
The unique flavour of fish captivates your dog's senses, providing an instant and irresistible distraction. Beyond their delicious taste, these treats bring added health benefits, enriched with omega-3 fatty acids to promote a lustrous coat and healthy skin.
Incorporate fish dog treats strategically into your dog's routine, using them as a delightful distraction during moments of potential paw-chewing. Whether it's for training, positive reinforcement, or simply to spoil your furry friend, these treats offer a holistic approach to keep those paws happily occupied.
Yes, it's normal for dogs to occasionally lick and bite their paws as a part of their grooming routine. However, excessive paw-licking or biting may indicate an underlying issue. If you notice persistent behaviour, it's essential to explore potential causes such as allergies, skin irritations, or behavioural factors. Regular monitoring and timely intervention can ensure your dog's paws stay healthy.
To stop your dog from licking their paws, first identify the cause. Addressing underlying issues such as allergies, irritations, or boredom is crucial. Use distraction techniques like engaging toys or treats to redirect their focus. Consider incorporating fish dog treats for a tasty and healthy distraction. If the behaviour persists, consult with your vet for a thorough examination and tailored advice.
There are various reasons why dogs chew their paws, including allergies, skin irritations, boredom, or behavioural issues. In this blog, we've explored these potential causes in detail. Regularly check your dog's paws, maintain good hygiene, and consider distractions like fish dog treats. If the chewing persists, consult with your vet to identify the specific cause and create a targeted plan for your dog's well-being.
