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Dachshunds are famously loyal and friendly, and are often seen as strong, intelligent, and protective family pets. But have you ever seen your Dachshund licking their paws? While it may seem strange, it’s actually a relatively common behavior in dogs. While it can be a sign of anxiety or boredom, there are some other reasons why a Dachshund might be licking their paws. In this article, we’ll explore the four most common reasons why a Dachshund might be licking their paws.
Reasons Why Your Dachshund Licks and Bites Its Paws
1. Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. If a Dachshund is licking their paws, it could be because of an allergic reaction to something in the environment. This can include pollen, dust, or even certain food items. If your Dachshund is licking their paws more than normal, it could be a sign that they’re dealing with some sort of allergy. Have them checked out by a veterinarian so that you can determine the cause of the problem.
Many Dachshund owners see success after giving their dog a natural allergy supplement, such as fish oil or quercetin, also known as “Nature’s Benadryl. One popular supplement is the iHeartDogs Allergy & Itch chews, available here or on Amazon Prime.
2. Skin Infections
It’s not unusual for a Dachshund to develop a skin infection, especially if they’re outdoors a lot and exposed to a variety of different elements. Skin infections can be caused by a variety of different things, including bacteria, fungi, and parasites. If your Dachshund is licking their paws, it could be because they’re trying to soothe an itchy or irritated area of skin. If this is the case, then it’s important to take them to the vet so that they can receive the appropriate treatment.
For minor paw irritations, a chlorhexidine wipe may offer relief. Always be sure to consult your veterinarian.
3. Anxiety or Stress
Dachshunds are highly sensitive to their environment, so it’s not unusual for them to develop anxiety or stress if something changes. If your Dachshund is licking their paws, it could be a sign that it’s feeling anxious or stressed. This could be caused by a move to a new home, the introduction of a new pet, or even changes in the weather. In any case, it’s important to pay attention to your Dachshund’s behavior and to try to alleviate any stress they may be feeling.
If you believe your Dachshund is suffering from anxiety, it’s important to address the root cause of the stressor. However, tools such as broad-spectrum Hemp oil or chews may be very helpful. There are also non-Hemp natural calming chews available as well.
4. Boredom
Dachshunds are highly active and need plenty of exercise in order to stay healthy and happy. If they’re not getting enough exercise, they can become bored and start to display behaviors such as licking their paws. This is why it’s important to make sure your Dachshund is getting enough physical activity. Make sure to take them for plenty of walks, play with them, and give them some interactive toys such as a nose work mat (many available on Amazon as well)
Frequently Asked Questions About Licking or Biting Its Paws
1. Why is my Dachshund constantly licking its paws?
Your Dachshund may be licking its paws due to allergies, skin irritation, parasites, or anxiety. It’s a common behavior when they feel discomfort or itchiness.
2. Can allergies cause my Dachshund to bite its paws?
Yes. Environmental or food allergies are one of the top reasons Dachshunds lick or chew their paws. Pollen, grass, or certain foods can trigger itchy skin reactions.
3. How do I know if my Dachshund has a paw infection?
Look for redness, swelling, a foul smell, or discharge. These signs usually indicate a bacterial or yeast infection that requires veterinary treatment.
4. Could anxiety cause my Dachshund to lick its paws?
Yes, Dachshunds are prone to separation anxiety. Excessive licking can be a self-soothing behavior when they’re stressed, bored, or left alone too long.
5. What types of allergies affect Dachshunds the most?
Dachshunds often suffer from seasonal allergies (like pollen), dust mites, certain foods (like chicken or beef), and grass or mold exposure.
6. How can I stop my Dachshund from biting its paws?
Start by identifying the cause — check for injuries, infections, or allergens. Keep paws clean, use dog-safe paw balms, and consult a vet for medication or allergy testing.
7. Is paw licking ever normal for Dachshunds?
Occasional licking for cleaning or comfort is normal. However, persistent licking or biting often signals a medical or behavioral issue that shouldn’t be ignored.
8. Can fleas or mites cause my Dachshund to lick its paws?
Absolutely. Fleas, mites, or ticks can make your Dachshund’s paws extremely itchy, leading to excessive licking and chewing. Use regular flea prevention treatments.
9. Should I bathe my Dachshund’s paws daily?
Not daily, but it’s good to wipe their paws after walks to remove allergens or dirt. Frequent full baths can dry out their skin — use gentle, hypoallergenic shampoos instead.
10. Can diet changes help stop paw licking?
Yes. Switching to a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet can help if food allergies are to blame. Ask your vet about elimination diets to identify triggers.
11. What home remedies can soothe my Dachshund’s itchy paws?
Try cool water rinses, paw soaks in diluted apple cider vinegar, or dog-safe coconut oil. These can temporarily relieve itching — but see a vet for persistent symptoms.
12. Are Dachshunds more likely to have paw problems than other breeds?
Yes, their short stature and close contact with grass and dirt make them more prone to allergies, irritations, and yeast buildup between their paw pads.
13. What if my Dachshund’s paws are red and swollen?
Redness and swelling are signs of inflammation or infection. Don’t delay — take your Dachshund to the vet for diagnosis and treatment.
14. Can trimming my Dachshund’s paw hair help?
Yes. Keeping the fur between paw pads trimmed helps prevent dirt, moisture, and allergens from collecting — reducing irritation and licking.
15. When should I take my Dachshund to the vet for paw licking?
If your Dachshund licks excessively, causes bald spots, or shows redness, swelling, or limping, see a vet immediately. Early treatment prevents infection and chronic issues.
Licking their paws is a common behavior in Dachshunds, and there can be a few different reasons for it. The most common are allergies, skin infections, anxiety or stress, and boredom. If you notice your Dachshund licking their paws more than normal, it’s important to pay attention to their behavior and take them to the vet if necessary.
Keeping Those Little Paws Healthy
If your Dachshund is constantly licking or biting its paws, it’s often an indication of an underlying problem such as allergies, anxiety, injuries, or parasites. These behaviors shouldn’t be ignored, as they can lead to skin irritation or infection if left untreated. Observing your dog’s habits and addressing the root cause early is crucial for its comfort and well-being. Consistent grooming, regular vet checkups, and a balanced diet play a vital role in keeping your Dachshund’s paws clean, pain-free, and healthy every day.
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