Allergies Might Explain Why Your Dog's Paws Are Bothering It

Allergies in dogs have become a common issue that many pet owners face. While there is limited research into the topic, a 2021 study by Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia in Brazil found that out of 456 dogs examined, 117 (25.65%) were diagnosed with atopic dermatitis, the second most common allergic skin disorder. Additionally, many vets have noted a steep rise in pet allergy cases seen in their clinics over the past 25 years.

Allergies in dogs can manifest in various ways, but one of the first signs pet owners might notice is issues with their dog's paws. Seasonal allergies, in particular, can irritate a dog's ears and paws. Pollen, mold, and other irritants can get trapped between their toes, causing irritation and leading to constant licking or obsessive attention to their feet.

While atopic dermatitis can affect any part of a dog's body, pododermatitis — derived from the Greek word "podo," meaning foot — is specific to a canine's paws. It is characterized by sensitive paws in a dog, often leading to itchiness and discomfort. Although pododermatitis can also result from bites, infections, or foreign objects in the paws, allergies are the most frequent cause. Recognizing potential paw issues can help address allergies sooner, reducing stress and discomfort for your dog.

If you suspect allergies, there are a few things you can do. First, try to determine the cause of your pet's allergies, as they can stem from various sources, including environmental factors, household chemicals, or food. At-home testing options can screen for potential irritants affecting your pet. While these tests are commercially available and convenient, they have shortcomings. Veterinarians have pointed out that the testing scope may be limited, a pet parent may have problems interpreting the results themselves, and a false positive could further confuse the issue they are trying to address. Instead, scheduling a vet visit may be better for determining the cause. 

In rarer cases, pododermatitis, and symptoms like excessive gnawing or chewing on the feet, may signal more serious concerns, such as a tumor or an autoimmune condition. A veterinarian can rule out these more severe issues with tests such as a biopsy or skin scraping, and help develop a plan to address your dog's itchiness if allergies are the suspected cause.

A veterinarian may guide an owner through a food trial, testing for food allergies at home. This usually takes about eight weeks. The process involves gradually introducing new food, like a hypoallergenic diet, to determine what a pet is allergic to. A veterinarian is also likely to conduct allergy testing if your dog is experiencing persistent symptoms of atopic dermatitis and other treatments, such as food trials and allergy medications, haven't helped.

Pet owners can help soothe their dog's irritated and itchy paws at home in various ways. A veterinary-recommended fish oil supplement, such as Nutramax Welactin Canine Soft Gels, can improve skin health and reduce inflammation. Switching to gentler shampoos, like oatmeal-based products such as DermAllay Oatmeal Shampoo, or medicated options like Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Medicated Shampoo, can also help ease irritation. Additionally, topical wipes and creams, such as Zymox Enzymatic Anti-Itch Topical Cream, can relieve allergen-induced skin issues.

An Epsom salt bath foot soak, using about 1 tablespoon of salt per 6 cups of water, can also alleviate itchiness, as demonstrated in the YouTube video above by its.me.kygo. For more natural solutions, try out a 'tea bath' with plain tea bags added to the water. The tannins in the tea can help draw out allergens and irritants from a dog's paws.

Addressing irritated paws at home can help reduce discomfort. However, persistent or severe symptoms — such as redness, swelling, or inflamed paws — should prompt a visit to the veterinarian to rule out potentially serious conditions and get proper treatment beyond the relief a pet parent can offer at home.

Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your pet's diet, exercise, or care. To find an accredited veterinarian in your area, you can search the American Animal Hospital Association's online database.