Seasonal allergies are uncomfortable and inconvenient for anyone – and that includes dogs. Unfortunately, humans are not the only creatures who become itchy, red-eyed, and ready to sneeze up a storm at any given moment when spring rolls around.
Dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies, too, and although they may present symptoms differently, the effects can be just as unpleasant for your pup as your allergies are for you.
But how can you tell whether your dog’s paw-licking habits relate to allergies? What should you do to treat them if you find out that they are? We’ll cover those questions and more in this quick and easy guide to your pup’s dog paw allergies.
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What Are Dog Paw Allergies?
Your pup’s paws come into direct contact with all kinds of different things, both indoors and out, so when allergy season rolls around and the ground is full of all kinds of pollens, molds, fungi, and other allergens, your pup’s paws are susceptible to irritation.
If their paws do become irritated when coming into contact with these things, it’s likely because your pup has dog paw allergies. Their paws can become painfully itchy with this condition. In most cases, their instinctual reaction will be to scratch and chew until the itch goes away, which can lead to some pretty painful wounds unless you give them the proper treatment.
Signs Your Dog May Suffer from Seasonal Dog Paw Allergies
Below are some of the most common signs that your dog is dealing with dog paw allergies:
- Constant licking of the paws
- Chewing of the paws
- Red or irritated paws and skin
- Lick granulomas (hot spots or lesions)
- Bleeding
- Limping
If you find your dog is experiencing one or more of these symptoms, consult your vet or try one of the home remedies listed below. Seasonal dog paw allergies can be very uncomfortable for your pup, especially when they result in licking or chewing until they have irritated skin or open wounds.
Should I Be Worried About My Dog Licking Their Paws?
Typically, there’s not a huge cause for concern when your dog is licking their paws a bit more than usual. Sometimes, they’re simply grooming themselves. But even when there are allergies involved, it’s nothing that a little attention and treatment shouldn’t be able to fix.
There’s no need to panic, but there may be a need to take action, so pay close attention to your pup’s paw licking habits. Make sure to give them the care they need if you find that the licking is becoming too excessive.
Home Remedies for Your Pup’s Itchy Paws
When your dog chews their paws up in an attempt to alleviate their allergy symptoms, you’re going to need to lend them a hand so that they don’t injure themselves. Below are some of the most effective home remedies for dog paw allergies.
Baking Soda
Create a paste using a 1:1 ratio of baking soda and water and then apply it to your pup’s skin. Allow the paste to sit for about 20 minutes and then rinse it off. This helps to dry out rashes so they can heal, relieve itching sensations, and reduce inflammation.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Grab a spray bottle and fill it with a 1:1 ratio of raw, unfiltered, organic apple cider vinegar and water. You can use a bit more water than ACV if you think that the 1:1 mix is a bit too acidic. Spray the mixture on your pup’s problem areas and allow it to work its magic.
Oatmeal Bath
You may remember this old home remedy from when you were young, and you got poison ivy. It’s a method that has been around a long time and that’s because it’s highly effective.
Grind up some colloidal oatmeal that is plain and sugar-free. Add a cup to a warm (not hot) bath. Get your pup in there and let them soak for around 5 or 10 minutes.
When to Call the Vet
If you find that none of your home remedies are helping, or your dog is continuing to harm themselves with their constant licking and chewing, then you should consult your vet. In some cases, it’s best to leave things in the hands of an experienced professional who has the ability to accurately diagnose the problem, prescribe medications, and suggest specific treatments.
Check out Pet Pawsabilities™ dog boots here designed for all seasons, to keep your pup’s paws safe.