Your daily dose of doggy goodness!
Every day, we celebrate our shared love of dogs and hopefully brighten your day. Enjoy!
Dog of the Day: Maddy!
Meme of the day: Call the papers!
Feet Aren’t for Biting!
It’s hard to watch your best furry friend constantly nibbling at their paws, isn’t it? When dogs bite their feet, it’s often a sign that something isn’t quite right. It could be because their joints are hurting from arthritis, or they could just be doing it because they’re bored. Either way, it can sometimes become a problem.
As pet parents, we want our pups to feel happy and healthy, so understanding the reasons behind this behavior and finding gentle ways to help them is essential.
Why Do Dogs Bite Their Feet?
There are several reasons dogs may nibble at their paws. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a speck of dirt or a tiny pebble stuck between their toes. Other times, it may be more complex:
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Allergies: Just like humans, dogs can have allergic reactions to food, grass, pollen, or cleaning products.
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Infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can cause itchiness and discomfort.
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Injuries: Cuts, splinters, or insect bites may prompt your pup to lick and chew at their feet.
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Anxiety or Boredom: Dogs may bite their feet as a coping mechanism when they’re feeling stressed or under-stimulated.
How Can You Help?
If you notice your dog obsessively biting their feet, don’t worry — you can help soothe their discomfort in several ways.
Check Their Paws Regularly
Make it a habit to inspect your dog’s paws for any visible signs of injury, foreign objects, or redness. It’s important to notice their feet getting damaged from constant chewing before it becomes a bigger issue, like fur loss or broken skin.
Clean and Soothe
After walks, gently wipe their paws with a damp cloth to remove dirt and allergens. A calming paw soaks with warm water and Epsom salt can also be effective. Be sure it is plain Epsom salt, however, not any treated with essential oils or other perfumes.
Use Protective Gear
If outdoor allergens are a problem, consider using dog booties to protect their paws.
Provide Mental Stimulation
Bored dogs often resort to licking or chewing out of habit. Engage your pup with puzzle toys, new tricks, and plenty of playtime.
Consult Your Vet
If the biting persists, it’s best to seek advice from your veterinarian. They can help identify allergies or other medical issues and provide appropriate treatment.
A Helping Paw
Sometimes, all your pup needs is a bit of extra attention. A gentle foot massage or just sitting with them quietly can do wonders to calm their nerves. Remember, observation is key to understanding what your dog is trying to tell you. Our pups can’t speak like we can, but they tell us things in their own ways.
Your dog trusts you to help them feel better. By tuning into their needs and taking these simple steps, you can keep those precious paws healthy and make sure your furry friend is comfortable and content.
Family Photo of the Day: Rickie!
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Sources:
Dog of the day: IG littlemissfurious
Meme of the day: IG pop_sausage