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Q. My 7-year-old terrier licks his paws constantly, as if they are itching. My groomer said it is just a dog’s habit, but I’m wondering if there’s something more going on. It’s pretty incessant.
Henry Killings
Carson, California
Dear Mr. Killings,
A. Take your terrier to the veterinarian. Occasional paw licking is plain old dog behavior. Persistent paw licking or scratching is often a sign of itchiness in reaction to an allergy or an infection, either of which needs professional tending. The allergy can be to an ingredient in the dog’s food or something in the environment. The infection can occur secondarily to the allergy or another disorder that could have an impact on overall health. For instance, says Tufts veterinary dermatologist Dr. Ramón Almela, diseases that suppress the immune system can result in the proliferation of pathogens like infectious bacteria.
In some cases, it turns out the licking is not the result of a medical condition but is caused by stress or boredom. The dog starts doing something to relieve anxiety or tedium, and it soon develops into something of an obsession. The doctor can do the rule-outs for you, so you know whether your dog needs treatment for allergies or an infection or a referral to a veterinary behaviorist to work through the problem another way.
What to do next? Since January my dog has had ALT enzymes off the chart high.
He had pre dental labs and no other problems except lost a couple of pounds but we thought muscle mass due to a prolonged break in his walking schedule. He had yard exercise only. Here it is June and his ALT just as high with ASP, AST increasing this time around. GGP is in normal range. I’ve tried changing diet and less exercise walking less miles a week. He began to blow his coat again and has lost so much hair. It’s an unusual cost blow for him and the hair on his belly near groin is down to the pigment. His leg fur is scarce and his hair continues to fill up the brush every time… we brush after every walk or yard time to prevent fleas.
I read just bc labs are like this do not change diet as it’s described as possible sub-clinical hepatitis. What can I do? What have I missed? Any help is appreciated.
XX Big B’s Momma
What about probiotics for dogs for gut health and relief from paw licking and allergies