If your pup won’t stop nibbling or licking their paws, you’re not alone! While it might just seem like a quirky habit, persistent paw attention can often be a sign of underlying issues that need your attention.
We asked Lemonade’s favorite vet, Dr. Stephanie Liff, to help explain what might be behind this behavior—and when it’s worth a trip to the vet.
Common causes of puppies biting their foot
Here are some of the most common reasons your puppy might be biting or licking their feet:
Teething
Puppies love to chew—especially when they’re teething. Paw chewing at this stage in life is often completely normal and helps soothe their sore gums. Dr. Liff explains, “Teething only lasts so long—if your puppy is older than six months old, it’s time to look for other causes.”
Normal grooming
It’s totally normal for dogs to lick or nibble their paws as part of regular grooming. They might be cleaning off dirt, moisture, or simply doing a little self-care. Occasional paw licking isn’t usually a cause for concern.
Irritants, injuries, or foreign objects
Puppies sometimes step on irritating substances or get foreign objects like splinters or grass seeds stuck in their paw pads. Long nails can also cause discomfort that leads to licking or chewing.
Parasites
Fleas and mites are common causes of itchy paws and skin irritation. They can trigger allergic reactions and sometimes secondary infections, which prompt paw chewing.
Allergies
Food or environmental allergens—like pollen, grass, or household cleaners—can cause itchy paws and dermatitis. Seasonal patterns or reactions after eating certain foods may indicate allergies.
History, seasonality, and a physical exam can help you differentiate allergies or skin conditions from behavioral issues.
Dr. Stephanie Liff
Bacterial and fungal infections
Infections like bacterial or yeast infections often develop after ongoing licking or chewing. Signs your pup might have a bacterial or fungal infection include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Itchiness
- Discharge
- Odor
Behavioral issues and anxiety
If medical causes are ruled out, boredom, separation anxiety, or compulsive behaviors could be the reason. Some breeds—like Dobermans and Jack Russells—are more prone to obsessive paw chewing.
Dr. Liff notes that if your pup has a normal physical exam and still chews their paws, they may need behavioral intervention or medications to address the cause.
How to help your puppy if they’re chewing their foot
Once you have a sense of what’s causing the paw chewing, there are several steps you can take at home to keep your pup comfortable—and their paws healthy:
- Regularly check your puppy’s paws for injury, debris, redness, or swelling
- Keep nails trimmed and paws clean to reduce discomfort
- Use gentle, dog-friendly shampoo if the skin seems dry
- Consider supplements for skin and coat health to ease itchiness
- Offer interactive playtime and chew toys if boredom or anxiety is suspected
- Talk to your vet about allergy testing or diet changes if allergies might be involved
- Make sure your puppy is on a vet-recommended prevention plan for fleas and mites
A little paw licking is normal, but excessive chewing deserves attention.
When to visit your vet about your puppy’s foot biting
If you spot any of these signs, it’s a good idea to check in with your vet:
- Persistent or excessive paw chewing that doesn’t improve with home care
- Signs of infection—redness, swelling, bad smell, or discharge
- Bleeding paws, hot spots, limping, or obvious pain
Your vet may also recommend a behaviorist if anxiety or compulsion is diagnosed. Seeking help early keeps your pup comfortable and happy.
Before we go…
Puppies keep life interesting—with surprise itches, allergies, and the occasional paw injury.
Having Lemonade pet insurance can help you stay ready for whatever comes up, so you can focus on keeping your pup happy and healthy.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.
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