Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws？

2025-05-26

Contents

—It’s often a sign of anxiety

Paw licking is a repetitive self-soothing behavior, much like humans biting their nails or pulling their hair when anxious. Here are some scientific explanations:

Behavioral Research

According to the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, dogs may lick their paws when they feel anxious, lonely, or under-stimulated.

This is known as a displacement behavior, which refers to when an internal emotional conflict is redirected into a socially acceptable repetitive action — such as licking.

Neurochemical Response

When a dog is anxious, cortisol (the stress hormone) levels rise in the body. Licking activates the release of endorphins in the brain, which have a calming effect and help the dog feel “safer” or more in control.

Below are recommended anxiety-relief pet products, including items from www.lyasilicone.com:

Durable Silicone Dog Chew Toy

- Material: Food-grade, BPA-free silicone
- https://www.lyasilicone.com/product/6741/Function: Encourages safe chewing to release tension
- Benefits: Offers both mental and physical stimulation, helps prevent destructive behavior
- Brand: LYA Silicone

Slow Feeder Lick Mat / Snuffle Mat

Use: Spread with peanut butter or wet food to promote licking
Function: Extends mealtime and reduces boredom
Benefits: Licking can help calm dogs during bathing, grooming, or when left alone
Brand: LYA Silicone

Generic Food-Stuffable Chew Ball

Feature: Can be filled with treats or peanut butter
Function: Keeps dogs occupied and focused
Benefits: Offers long-lasting playtime and helps reduce stress

Snuffle Balls & Chew Balls

Use: Hide treats in folds or crevices
Benefits: Encourages natural foraging and chewing behaviors
Effect: Stimulates the senses and helps prevent anxiety-driven licking

Conclusion:

By incorporating slow-feeding tools and chewable enrichment toys — especially non-toxic, high-quality silicone products from LYA Silicone — pet owners can provide healthy emotional outlets for their dogs. These products not only reduce compulsive behaviors like paw licking, but also promote calm, focused, and enriched daily routines.