Dogs lick others as a sign of affection and use their tongues to clean themselves. But what happens when licking their toes becomes a constant habit and their paws show signs of inflammation? You may have a case of red feet on your hands. Inform yourself about this condition, its causes, and how you can prevent it.
Red Feet in Dogs Has Many Causes
Red feet is the nickname for the skin condition called pododermatitis and refers to an irritation or inflammation in a dog’s feet or paws. There’s usually red discoloration, and some causes include:
- Allergies
- Separation anxiety (or just plain anxiety)
- Infections
- Tumors
- Boredom
Each cause has its tell-tale signs, but the discolored and inflamed paw pads are a common symptom. If you notice any of these on your dog’s feet, take them to the vet for a proper diagnosis. There, they can help you determine what triggered the reaction and the next steps, such as medication, a lifestyle change, foot soaks, or a mix of treatments. The vet may also give you a doggy cone or puffy collar to prevent licking until this common skin condition heals.
1. Allergies
Allergies are one cause of red feet. Similar to their human companions, dogs can have food and seasonal allergies. Some allergic reactions, such as to pollen and plants, are genetic, and if a parent had them, there’s a higher chance that their pups will, too. Unfortunately, there are allergies that you won’t realize until after exposure. Many food allergies won’t reveal themselves until after your pup has consumed the food.
If you’ve recently changed food and noticed your dog has swollen, itching feet, watery eyes, or an upset stomach, they could have allergies. Stop giving them the new food and compare ingredients to the old kibble. Determine what’s different and might have caused the reaction and share this with your vet.
2. Anxiety and Licking
Much like chewing, licking works as a self-soothing mechanism. However, chronic licking can lead to paw pad dryness and irritation. Dogs may lick to make themselves feel better when they feel anxious or stressed. This can be because of a change in environment, having a new addition (partner, friend, child, or pet) in the home, or because of separation anxiety when their owner is away.
Notice the conditions that make your dog uneasy. Find ways to soothe their anxiety and provide alternatives to licking. If your dog struggles with separation anxiety, consider leaving out some favorite chew toys for them to gnaw on. Surround your pup with items they love and make them feel safe.
3. Infections
Sometimes, pups will get cuts on their paws from contact with sharp objects or repeated trauma to the area. When left untreated, dirt can enter the body through the cut and lead to an infection.
A dog licking the infected area before and after infection can hinder the recovery process by reopening wounds. The paws may become red and swollen or develop bumps that leak discharge. Because your pup doesn’t know any better, they will continue licking their paws in hopes that it will heal them.
A serious infection with irritation, pustules, and pus needs medical attention. A vet examination will determine if it's a bacterial, fungal, yeast, or parasitic infection and prescribe a treatment plan.
4. Tumors
In rare cases, a change in paw color and excessive licking stem from tumors and skin cancers like melanoma. Typically, inflammation will appear on only one paw or foot, but multiple can be affected. Dogs will give the irritated area more attention by licking it.
Vets will review your pet’s health history and perform skin scraping tests or cytology exams to evaluate the conditions. Other diagnostic exams they may perform include blood and urine tests. While no pet parent wants to hear that their furry child has a tumor or cancer, finding a case early on presents more treatment options and increases their chances of survival.
5. Boredom
Dogs will also lick because of plain boredom. They have nothing else to do but lick their paws and hope the minutes pass by. This is a sign of a dog who needs more mental stimulation and physical activity in their day! Your dog’s exercise needs largely depend on their breed and age. Yet, most dogs need at least 30 minutes of movement each day. High-energy breeds like Golden Retrievers, Huskies, and German Shepherds need multiple, longer walks to get their wiggles out.
Help your pup burn energy by playing fetch, tossing a frisbee, running at a dog park, going for a swim, and hiking. For the ultimate workout, teach them to run through obstacle courses and have them repeat it until they’re worn out. Exercise will keep them busy and reduce their time spent licking paws.
Ways to Prevent Dogs’ Red Feet
As a pup parent, you can reduce the chances of your pet developing red feet. Schedule yearly vet visits and share any unusual behaviors or physical conditions you’ve noticed. Before you release your dog to play in nature or start an outdoor adventure, scan the area for any hazards. Clean and examine your dog’s paws each time you get done playing or exploring outside. This will remove any bothersome dirt and help you detect cuts, irritated skin, or other skin conditions.
If your dog loves running, especially on rough surfaces, apply a paw balm. This soothes and moisturizes the cracked skin and reduces the chances of cuts. It also protects their paws against extreme weather conditions, and the not-so-pleasant taste discourages licking.
Dogs’ Red Feet Has Many Causes
Red feet in dogs have several causes that range from allergies to infections and boredom. Once you notice the change in paw color, determine what other symptoms your dog has. Visit your vet and explain the conditions to find a possible diagnosis; only then can a professional advise a treatment plan or lifestyle changes to heal your pup.
