Your Maltese won't stop licking his paws, likely due to itchiness from allergies (food, environmental), pain/injury (cuts, splinters, arthritis), infections (yeast, bacteria), or behavioral issues (anxiety, boredom). Maltese are prone to skin issues, so check for irritants after walks, look for signs of infection, and consult a vet to diagnose the root cause, as excessive licking can lead to worse infections or granulomas.
Paw licking is one of the most common signs of allergies (allergic dermatitis) in dogs, especially if it's accompanied by ear infections, itchiness on the belly, or is worse seasonally. However, it can also be a sign of injury or anxiety.
Epsom salt soaks of the feet for about 5–10 minutes at least once a day can help wash off environmental allergens and contaminants. This also soothes the skin of the feet and helps the healing process. You can also use medicated wipes to help clean the paws and relieve some of the itching.
When should I worry about my dog licking their paws? If it's happening often, causing damage, or your dog seems uncomfortable, it's time to talk to your vet.
Environmental allergies are the most common cause of excessive paw licking. Dogs absorb allergens through their skin and paws, unlike humans who typically react through inhalation. Seasonal pollen, grass, dust mites, and mold spores often trigger these reactions.
Symptoms of a Dog Paw Pad Yeast Infection
The veterinarian has many tools at his or her disposal to help your dog get itchy paw relief and heal quickly. Some of these options include: Anti-inflammatories to reduce pain and inflammation. Antibiotics to treat bacterial skin infections.
The feet and paws are often red (inflamed) and swollen. There may be nodules (bumps) or fungal lesions (kerions), ulcers, or discharge (pus) from the lesions. There is often hair loss and the dog may lick the feet constantly.
Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar for your dog's paws if they're itchy, irritated, or inflamed. Diluted ACV may help soothe the skin, alleviate itching, and remove germs. In fact, Dr. Manucy says bathing is one of the only ways you can effectively and safely use ACV—but you don't need to soak their paws.
Anti-inflammatory medications: Apoquel, Atopica, fatty acid supplements, prednisone, or other medications such as antihistamines can be very effective in reducing itching. Apoquel and Atopica are the only FDA-approved non-steroidal drugs for the management of canine atopic dermatitis.
Fungal or Bacterial Infections
Infections caused by fungus or bacteria can make your dog's paws itchy and sore. These infections often require medical treatment, so it's important to consult your vet if you suspect an infection.
#1 Don't feed your Maltese food with additives or fillers.
Another is chemical preservatives which is a top cause of allergies and are linked to many serious health issues. Other ingredients to avoid include fillers (like corn and its by-products), high levels of wheat, meat by-products, and generic meats and oils.
How to prevent excessive paw licking
Your Maltese puppy should remain playful and eager to have fun throughout most of their life, but you can expect them to calm down significantly once they reach 3-4 years of age. They will still love to have fun with their family, but they should no longer be bouncing off the walls at this point.
It can be limited to specific areas or it can make the dog itchy all over. Affected areas often appear pink or sore, and you might see saliva staining on the coat from prolonged licking. Saliva staining is easy to spot.
Soak your dog's paws in soap or Epsom salts
For example, using a gentle, odor-free soap can help break up debris and remove extra bacteria on your dog's foot. Epsom salts can help remove grass awns from your dog's paws and can also be soothing for your dog's skin.
If you notice cracks or excessive dryness on your dog's paw pads for the first time, it's a good idea to visit your vet so they can rule out any serious issues. Your dog should visit the veterinarian as soon as possible if you notice any of the following: Bleeding paw pad cracks. Swelling.
4 Ways to Relieve Your Dog's Skin Itching
If symptoms persist or worsen after attempting these remedies, consult your veterinarian promptly.
Ans. Yes. Food allergies often cause itchy paws, leading to persistent licking. Identifying and removing the triggering ingredient helps reduce the behavior.
Medicated Shampoos and Wipes
Antifungal shampoos and medicated wipes help reduce yeast overgrowth on the paws. These products contain ingredients like chlorhexidine, ketoconazole, or miconazole to combat fungal infections.
Paw licking and chewing: Dogs that frequently lick or chew their paws may be trying to alleviate the intense itching and discomfort caused by a yeast infection. Redness and inflammation: The affected paw or paws may appear red, swollen, or inflamed. The skin may also feel warm to the touch.
There are certain breeds thought to be genetically predisposed to developing yeast infections. These breeds include West Highland White Terrier, Basset Hound, Cocker Spaniel, Silky Terrier, Australian Terrier, Maltese Terrier, Chihuahua, Poodle, Shetland Sheepdog, Lhasa Apso, and Dachshund.