Foot Chewing and Licking

The following article was composed by Ellen Morris.

There are several causes for foot licking and chewing. Allergic reaction to something is not at all uncommon. Recent rug cleaning or yard treatment or lawn treatment, dressing for flooring, spraying, and even food allergies can all bring on food allergies and the etiology should be addressed. In addition, licking and chewing the leg can be done out of frustration or boredom. I have even read that dogs can get an endorphin rush from the licking sensation.

The worst thing is that the repeated licking can cause a lick granuloma and if left unchecked, this can be horrific. I know one vet who has actually had to amputate a leg when the dog licked its way right down to the bone.

A trip to the veterinarian is not out of line here. They will try to determine the reason and if it is medical, treat it. The vets often use steroids and sometimes inject directly into the area. Another thing that will help is that when the dog is in the house, put a sock on the offending leg(s) which ha been thoroughly sprayed with Best Behavior or Bitter Apple and allowed to dry. Then there will be no pleasure in licking the sock and the pattern will stop. You will have to use the sock for a week or two and take it off when you are walking your dog or giving it a potty break, but the sock will keep the leg dry and away from that offending tongue.
In addition, a plethora of wonderful toys to prevent boredom is another path to explore because one way or another, no matter what the cause, the distraction will help the healing process!

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