Home Remedies to Stop Your Dog from Chewing Their Paws: A Compassionate Guide

If you’ve noticed your dog constantly chewing or licking their paws, you’re probably feeling a mix of concern and frustration. Not only can this behavior be annoying, but it can also lead to sore, irritated skin or even infections. The good news is that there are several home remedies you can try to help your dog find relief and break the habit. Let’s dive into some practical, easy-to-follow solutions that can make a real difference.

Why Do Dogs Chew Their Paws?

Before jumping into remedies, it’s important to understand why your dog might be chewing their paws in the first place.

Common causes include:

• Allergies: Environmental allergens (like pollen or dust) or food allergies can cause itchy paws.

• Dry Skin: Cold weather or low humidity can dry out your dog’s skin, leading to irritation.

• Boredom or Anxiety: Some dogs chew their paws as a way to self-soothe when they’re stressed or under-stimulated.

• Injuries or Irritants: Splinters, thorns, or even harsh chemicals (like sidewalk salt) can cause discomfort.

• Parasites: Fleas, ticks, or mites can make your dog’s paws itchy and irresistible to chew.

Once you’ve ruled out serious medical issues (always consult your vet if you’re unsure), you can try these home remedies to help your dog stop chewing their paws.

1. Keep Their Paws Clean

Dirt, pollen, and other irritants can get trapped between your dog’s paw pads, causing itching and discomfort. Regularly cleaning their paws can help.

• What to Do: After walks or outdoor play, gently wipe your dog’s paws with a damp cloth or use a pet-safe paw cleaner. Be sure to dry their paws thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent moisture buildup.

2. Soothe with an Oatmeal Soak

Oatmeal is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help relieve itchy, irritated skin. It’s safe, gentle, and easy to use.

• What to Do: Grind plain, unflavored oatmeal into a fine powder and mix it with warm water to create a paste or soak. Let your dog’s paws soak in the mixture for 5–10 minutes, then rinse and dry thoroughly. You can do this 2–3 times a week as needed.

3. Moisturize with Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a fantastic natural moisturizer that can help soothe dry, cracked paws. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can prevent infections.

• What to Do: Apply a small amount of coconut oil to your dog’s paws and gently massage it in. Be sure to use unrefined, virgin coconut oil. Your dog might try to lick it off, so distract them with a toy or treat for a few minutes to let it absorb.

4. Try an Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) can help balance the skin’s pH and reduce itching. It’s also great for killing bacteria and yeast, which can sometimes cause paw irritation.

• What to Do: Mix equal parts ACV and water in a spray bottle or bowl. Spray or soak your dog’s paws for a few minutes, then rinse and dry. Avoid using this remedy if your dog has open sores or cuts, as it can sting.

5. Use a Baking Soda Paste

Baking soda is another natural remedy that can help relieve itching and inflammation.

• What to Do: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a thick paste. Apply it to your dog’s paws, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then rinse and dry. This can be done once or twice a week.

6. Protect Their Paws with Booties or Balms

If your dog’s paw chewing is caused by environmental irritants (like salt or hot pavement), protecting their paws can make a big difference.

• What to Do: Consider using dog booties for walks or applying a pet-safe paw balm before heading outside. Paw balms create a protective barrier and help moisturize the skin.

7. Address Boredom or Anxiety

If your dog is chewing their paws out of boredom or stress, addressing the root cause is key.

• What to Do:

  • Provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation through walks, playtime, and puzzle toys.

  • Create a calm environment with cozy bedding and calming scents (like lavender).

  • If anxiety is severe, talk to your vet about potential solutions, such as behavioral training or natural calming supplements.

8. Check for Allergies

Allergies are a common cause of paw chewing. While severe allergies may require veterinary intervention, you can try some at-home strategies to reduce allergens.

• What to Do:

  • Wash your dog’s bedding regularly in hypoallergenic detergent.

  • Vacuum and dust your home frequently to reduce environmental allergens.

  • Consider switching to a high-quality, hypoallergenic dog food if you suspect food allergies.

9. Use an Elizabethan Collar (Cone) as a Last Resort

If your dog’s paw chewing is causing serious damage and nothing else seems to work, a cone might be necessary to give their paws time to heal.

• What to Do: Use a cone temporarily while you address the underlying cause of the chewing. Make sure your dog is comfortable and can still eat, drink, and move around easily.

When to See the Vet

While home remedies can be effective, it’s important to recognize when your dog needs professional help. If your dog’s paw chewing is accompanied by redness, swelling, bleeding, or a foul odor, or if the behavior persists despite your efforts, it’s time to consult your vet. They can help identify underlying issues like infections, parasites, or chronic allergies.

Final Thoughts

Watching your dog chew their paws can be heartbreaking, but with a little patience and the right approach, you can help them find relief. Remember, every dog is different, so it might take some trial and error to find the remedy that works best for your furry friend. The key is to stay consistent, observe their behavior, and address the root cause of the chewing.

Here’s to happy, healthy paws and a happier, more comfortable pup!