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Bernese Mountain dogs are famously loyal and friendly, and are often seen as strong, intelligent, and protective family pets. But have you ever seen your Bernese Mountain Dog licking their paws? While it may seem strange, it’s actually a relatively common behavior in dogs. While it can be a sign of anxiety or boredom, there are some other reasons why a Bernese Mountain Dog might be licking their paws. In this article, we’ll explore the four most common reasons why a Bernese Mountain Dog might be licking its paws.
Reasons Why Your Bernese Mountain Dog Licks and Bites Its Paws
1. Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. If a Bernese Mountain is licking its paws, it could be because of an allergic reaction to something in the environment. This can include pollen, dust, or even certain food items. If your Bernese Mountain is licking its paws more than normal, it could be a sign that it’s dealing with some sort of allergy. Have them checked out by a vet so that you can get to the bottom of the problem.
Many Bernese Mountain owners see success after giving their dog a natural allergy supplement, such as fish oil or quercetin, also known as “Nature’s Benadryl. One popular supplement is the iHeartDogs Allergy & Itch chews, available here or on Amazon Prime.
2. Skin Infections
It’s not unusual for a Bernese Mountain Dog to develop a skin infection, especially if they’re outdoors a lot and exposed to a variety of different elements. Skin infections can be caused by a variety of different things, including bacteria, fungi, and parasites. If your Bernese Mountain is licking its paws, it could be because it’s trying to soothe an itchy or irritated area of skin. If this is the case, then it’s important to take them to the vet so that they can receive the appropriate treatment.
For minor paw irritations, a chlorhexidine wipe may offer relief. Always be sure to consult your veterinarian.
3. Anxiety or Stress
Bernese Mountains are highly sensitive to their environment, so it’s not unusual for them to develop anxiety or stress if something changes. If your Bernese Mountain is licking its paws, it could be a sign that it’s feeling anxious or stressed. This could be caused by a move to a new home, the introduction of a new pet, or even changes in the weather. In any case, it’s important to pay attention to your Bernese Mountain’s behavior and to try to alleviate any stress they may be feeling.
If you believe your Bernese Mountain is suffering from anxiety, it’s important to address the root cause of the stressor. However, tools such as broad-spectrum Hemp oil or chews may be very helpful. There are also natural calming chews available.
4. Boredom
Bernese Mountains are highly active and need plenty of exercise in order to stay healthy and happy. If they’re not getting enough exercise, they can become bored and start to display behaviors such as licking their paws. This is why it’s important to make sure your Bernese Mountain is getting enough physical activity. Make sure to take them for plenty of walks, play with them, and give them some interactive toys such as a nose work mat (many available on Amazon as well)
Frequently Asked Questions About Licking or Biting Its Paws
1. Why is my Bernese Mountain Dog constantly licking its paws?
Excessive paw licking is often caused by allergies, irritants, or skin infections. Your dog may also lick due to boredom or stress. Identifying the trigger early helps prevent infection or hair loss.
2. Can allergies cause paw licking in Bernese Mountain Dogs?
Yes. Environmental or food allergies are among the top causes. Common allergens include pollen, grass, dust mites, and certain dog foods. A vet can run allergy tests to find the culprit.
3. How do I know if my Bernese Mountain Dog has a paw infection?
Look for redness, swelling, foul odor, or discharge between the toes. Your dog might limp or yelp when touching the paw. In such cases, a vet visit is necessary.
4. Could anxiety or boredom cause paw biting?
Absolutely. Bernese Mountain Dogs are intelligent and social — when they feel lonely or understimulated, they may resort to paw licking as a coping mechanism.
5. What home remedies can help soothe my dog’s irritated paws?
You can rinse the paws in lukewarm water with mild antiseptic (like diluted betadine) and apply dog-safe paw balm. Avoid human creams, as they may be toxic.
6. Can dry or cracked paw pads make my Bernese lick them?
Yes. Dry, rough paw pads can become uncomfortable, leading your dog to lick them frequently. Moisturizing with vet-approved paw balm can help restore comfort.
7. What foods can trigger paw licking in Bernese Mountain Dogs?
Common triggers include chicken, beef, dairy, wheat, and soy. Switching to a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic diet may help if food allergies are suspected.
8. How often should I clean my dog’s paws to prevent issues?
After walks, especially in muddy or grassy areas, wipe your dog’s paws with a damp cloth or paw wipes. Regular cleaning reduces allergens and irritants that cause licking.
9. Can parasites like fleas or mites cause paw biting?
Yes. Fleas, ticks, and mites can bite between your dog’s toes, causing itching and irritation. Use regular parasite prevention recommended by your vet.
10. Is paw licking a sign of pain or arthritis?
It can be. Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to joint issues and arthritis, and licking may be their way of soothing pain in nearby joints or limbs.
11. Should I stop my dog from licking its paws?
Yes, but gently. Interrupt the behavior with positive distractions like toys or walks, and address the underlying cause rather than just stopping the habit.
12. When should I see a vet about paw licking?
If licking persists for more than a few days, or you see redness, swelling, bleeding, or limping, contact your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
13. Can I use an e-collar to stop paw licking?
Temporarily, yes — an Elizabethan collar (cone) can prevent licking while the paws heal. However, this should be paired with treating the root cause, not just symptom control.
14. Are Bernese Mountain Dogs more prone to paw issues?
They can be. Due to their thick coats and active outdoor lifestyle, debris, moisture, and allergens often get trapped in their fur and between their toes, increasing risk.
15. How can I prevent my Bernese Mountain Dog from licking or biting its paws in the future?
Keep a consistent grooming routine, inspect paws regularly, use paw protection balm, and provide enrichment activities to reduce stress and boredom. Always address health issues promptly.
Licking their paws is a common behavior in Bernese Mountain Dogs, and there can be a few different reasons for it. The most common are allergies, skin infections, anxiety or stress, and boredom. If you notice your Bernese Mountain Dog licking their paws more than normal, it’s important to pay attention to their behavior and take them to the vet if necessary.
Keeping Those Little Paws Healthy
If your Bernese Mountain Dog is constantly licking or biting its paws, it’s often an indication of an underlying problem such as allergies, anxiety, injuries, or parasites. These behaviors shouldn’t be ignored, as they can lead to skin irritation or infection if left untreated. Observing your dog’s habits and addressing the root cause early is crucial for its comfort and well-being. Consistent grooming, regular vet checkups, and a balanced diet play a vital role in keeping your Bernese Mountain Dog’s paws clean, pain-free, and healthy every day.
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