Unraveling the Mystery: Why Do Dogs Chew Their Paws? Exploring Causes and Solutions

Every day, we can hear warnings from various organizations about how animals are increasingly endangered and how shelters are fuller. Despite this, many cold-hearted people continue to do bad things to their pets, and abandonment is one of the most heartbreaking. 

Unfortunately, this can always be brought to another level, and the best proof of that is the people who breed dogs for profit. As their priority is money and not the love that these beings carry in their hearts, the outcome can often be tragic.

That was the case this time as well when a group of rescuers found three shivering puppies outside of the Paterson shelter. Their story is a lesson for all of us. 

Poor Little Lives

On March 22, 2024, Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge (RBARI), a rescue organization located in Oakland, New Jersey, announced a dramatic title in their Facebook post. 

“!! Urgent Rescue in Progress ‼️ Sick puppies dumped outside Paterson shelter!” they wrote. 

According to them, the little ones were in a very bad condition – cold, sickly, and malnourished. 

They assumed that the puppies were “some sort of micro breed of Boston terrier.” Aside from that, they were approximately eight weeks old and they were all male. 

Their mother wasn’t anywhere around, and the rescuers had no information about her or the other puppies. 

Nevertheless, these good people didn’t want to wait any longer but immediately rushed to the hospital to provide much-needed help for these poor babies. 

Glimpse Of Hope

Later that day, after they found the puppies and brought them to the hospital, a rescue organization from Oakland, Wisconsin, wrote another Facebook post about their situation. Fortunately, the news was quite positive. 

“The three tiny micro-Boston pups abandoned outside in the cold are now stable and receiving the medical care that had been so neglected,” they wrote. 

In that honor, they named them Alvin, Simon, and Theodore. All three of them were very malnourished and had pot bellies. Aside from that, they were also suffering from an upper respiratory illness. 

After that knowledge, everything was finally clear to these people. They were now sure that the puppies were the product of microbreeding from people eager for profit, but also that their illness “helped” them to end up on the street. 

“In the world of backyard breeding, you can’t sell a sick dog,” they wrote. 

However, this only motivated them even more to help the puppies and provide them with a better future. They gave them the needed medication and TLC, as well as the best quality food, so they were already feeling much better. 

Soon, the puppies were able to be released into out-patient care in a medical foster home, where they had a better chance of staying healthy. Aside from all the necessities, they were also showered with a lot of love, and that helped them in their recovery, too. 

“Alvin, Simon and Theodore are finally being doted on as precious lives instead of a rejected commodity,” RBARI wrote. 

An Eye-Opening Tragedy

Their saviors knew that the puppies would have to go through a tough recovery due to their health issues. Fortunately, with the help of all the good people who were taking care of them, everything went quite well, and all of them were full of hope that there would be a happy ending. 

“All three pups are spunky, running around, wrestling and playing hide and seek one minute – then snuggling and giving love the next,” RBARI wrote in their new Facebook post. 

However, just when they thought that nothing could go wrong and that all three puppies were doing fine, the saddest moment came. 

“Yesterday, Alvin, one of the three puppies we recently rescued, passed away,” RBARI wrote in their latest Facebook post from April 1, 2024. 

They wrote that Alvin came to them with “a severe cleft palate, suffering from congenital hydrocephalus as well as other defects affecting his neurological function.” All these were the consequences of bad breeding, which was subsequently the cause of his downfall. 

Although it was hard for them to go through all this, the people who cared for Alvin and the other puppies had to share his story. They didn’t do it to make it easier to cry their tears or spill morale but to save some future Alvins and all other pups whom someone decided to give such a fate to. 

After reading this story, it’s up to all of us to take a look into our hearts and decide if it’s more important to have a few more dollars in our pockets or a heart filled with joy because one little life continues to live.

If you’ve ever noticed your furry companion gnawing at their paws, you might be wondering what’s behind this common behavior. Paw chewing in dogs can range from an occasional nibble to excessive licking and chewing that raises concerns for pet parents. As a seasoned dog trainer, I’ve seen this behavior in many pups, and there are a few reasons why your dog might be showing this tendency.

For our canine friends, paw chewing can be a way to alleviate boredom, soothe anxiety, or even signal an underlying health issue. Understanding the root cause behind your dog’s paw-chewing habit is crucial in addressing their needs and ensuring their well-being. So, let’s take a closer look at the possible reasons behind this behavior and how you can help your furry friend find comfort and relief.

Understanding the Behavior: Why Do Dogs Chew Their Paws

The Instinctual Aspects of Paw Chewing

When it comes to why dogs chew their paws, it’s important to consider their natural instincts. Dogs have a strong urge to groom themselves, similar to how they would lick and chew their fur. In the wild, this behavior helps them stay clean and remove any potential threats. So, paw chewing can be a way for your dog to instinctively groom and care for themselves.

When Paw Chewing Can Signal Comfort or Habit

Sometimes, paw chewing in dogs isn’t just about grooming; it can also signal comfort or develop into a habit. Just like humans might bite their nails when nervous, dogs may chew their paws when they are anxious or seeking comfort. Additionally, if the behavior becomes repetitive, it could turn into a habit that is hard to break. Keeping an eye on your dog’s overall behavior and well-being can help you understand if paw chewing is a sign of deeper issues.

Common Causes of Paw Chewing in Dogs

Allergies and Skin Conditions

If your dog is constantly chewing on their paws, allergies and skin irritations could be the primary culprits. Just like humans, dogs can be allergic to various things like pollen, certain foods, or even fleas. The discomfort from these allergies can drive them to chew on their paws to find relief. Additionally, skin conditions such as dermatitis or infections can cause itching, leading to excessive paw chewing.

Injuries and Pain

Another common reason for paw chewing in dogs is injuries or underlying pain. If your dog has hurt their paw or is experiencing discomfort due to arthritis or other health issues, they may resort to chewing as a way to manage the pain. Monitoring their paw for any signs of injury or inflammation is crucial to addressing this behavior promptly.

Anxiety and Behavioral Issues

Anxiety and stress can also manifest in dogs through paw chewing. Similar to how humans bite their nails when nervous, dogs may excessively chew on their paws when feeling anxious or fearful. Behavioral issues, such as boredom or separation anxiety, can further exacerbate this behavior. Understanding your dog’s triggers and providing them with mental stimulation and comfort can help alleviate their anxiety-related paw chewing.

Remember, observing your dog’s behavior closely and seeking advice from a veterinarian can help determine the underlying cause of their paw chewing. By addressing the root issue, you can help your furry companion find relief and lead a happier, healthier life.

Identifying the Signs: When to Be Concerned

Normal Grooming vs. Excessive Chewing

While it’s normal for dogs to groom themselves by licking their paws occasionally, frequent and excessive chewing could indicate an underlying issue. If you notice that your dog is persistently gnawing at their paws, causing redness, irritation, or even hair loss, it’s essential to pay close attention.

Symptoms That Accompany Paw Chewing

In addition to excessive chewing, there are other noticeable symptoms that may accompany this behavior. Keep an eye out for signs like inflammation, swelling, discharge, or a foul odor emanating from your dog’s paws. These indicators, along with consistent paw chewing, may signal a more serious problem that requires veterinary attention.

Addressing the Issue: Solutions and Treatments

Veterinary Approaches to Treating Paw Chewing

If your dog is constantly chewing their paws, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian. Vets can perform a thorough examination to determine the underlying cause of the behavior. They may conduct tests to check for allergies, skin conditions, or any injuries that could be causing discomfort. Based on their findings, the vet can recommend appropriate treatment options to address the root cause of your dog’s paw chewing.

Home Remedies and Prevention Strategies

In addition to veterinary care, there are some home remedies and preventive measures you can take to help alleviate your dog’s paw chewing. Ensure your dog’s environment is enriched with toys, playtime, and mental stimulation to combat boredom and anxiety, common triggers for excessive paw chewing. Regularly inspect your dog’s paws for any signs of irritation, cuts, or foreign objects that may be causing discomfort. You can also consider using paw balms or socks to protect your dog’s paws and prevent excessive licking and chewing. A balanced diet and proper grooming can also contribute to overall paw health and minimize the urge to chew.

Conclusion

Now that you understand why dogs chew their paws, remember that it’s crucial to address the underlying cause to ensure your furry friend’s well-being. Consulting a vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan is key. By implementing preventive measures like regular paw checks, a balanced diet, and enriching your dog’s environment, you can help curb excessive paw chewing. Remember, a healthy and happy pup is a paw-chewing-free pup!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do dogs chew on their paws?

Dogs chew on their paws due to allergies, skin conditions, pain, anxiety, or behavioral issues. Identifying the root cause is crucial for their well-being.

What are the solutions for excessive paw chewing?

Solutions include consulting a vet for a thorough examination, using paw balms or socks, maintaining a balanced diet, regular paw inspection, enriching the dog’s environment, and proper grooming.

How can I prevent my dog from chewing on its paws?

Prevent paw chewing by maintaining overall paw health through regular inspections, providing enriching activities, using paw balms or socks, ensuring a balanced diet, and proper grooming practices.

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