"'Many owners dismiss paw licking as boredom, but it can be an early warning sign of discomfort or inflammation,' Happy Chapman, general director at DotDotPet said. Just like humans feel joint stiffness in colder months, dogs also react to seasonal changes, he explained. 'Statistics show that paw licking spikes in autumn and winter,' Mr Chapman said. 'Dogs often become slower on walks and spend more time licking their paws-these are signs of discomfort, not mischief.'"
"Constant dampness from rain, puddles and mud can soften paw pads, making them prone to irritation or small cracks. Switching between cold, wet outdoors and warm, dry indoors can also dry out the skin, leaving paws itchy - similar to how humans often notice chapped lips or dry hands in winter. Both lead dogs to lick to relieve soreness and irritation."
Paw licking commonly increases during autumn and winter when colder, damp weather softens paw pads and promotes irritation or small cracks. Alternating between cold, wet outdoors and warm, dry indoors can dry skin and leave paws itchy, similar to chapped lips or dry hands. A rise in paw licking can indicate soreness, inflammation, or joint stiffness and may coincide with dogs becoming slower on walks. Rinsing paws after walks and thoroughly drying them removes irritants and reduces discomfort. Certain plasma supplements can help reduce inflammation. Owners should monitor excessive licking and consult a veterinarian if new symptoms appear.
Read at Mail Online
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