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Dobermans are famously loyal and friendly, and are often seen as strong, intelligent, and protective family pets. But have you ever seen your Doberman licking its 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 Doberman might be licking their paws. In this article, we’ll explore the four most common reasons why a Doberman might be licking their paws.

Reasons Why Your Doberman Licks and Bites Its Paws

1. Allergies

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. If a Doberman 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 Doberman is licking their paws more than normal, it could be a sign that they’re dealing with some sort of allergy. Have them checked out by a veterinarian so that you can determine the cause of the problem.

Many Doberman 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 Doberman 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 Doberman is licking their paws, it could be because they’re 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

Dobermans are highly sensitive to their environment, so it’s not unusual for them to develop anxiety or stress if something changes. If your Doberman is licking their paws, it could be a sign that they’re 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 Doberman’s behavior and to try to alleviate any stress they may be feeling.

If you believe your Doberman 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 non-Hemp natural calming chews available as well.

4. Boredom

Dobermans 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 Doberman 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 Doberman constantly licking its paws?

Excessive licking in Dobermans often signals irritation or discomfort. Common causes include allergies, dry skin, infections, or even anxiety. Identifying the trigger early helps prevent further paw damage.

2. What allergies can cause a Doberman to lick its paws?

Dobermans can suffer from environmental allergies (pollen, dust mites, grass), food allergies (chicken, beef, grains), or contact allergies (cleaning chemicals, certain fabrics). These irritants lead to itchy, inflamed paws.

3. Can boredom make my Doberman bite its paws?

Yes. Dobermans are intelligent and active dogs. If they don’t get enough mental stimulation or exercise, they may lick or chew their paws out of boredom or frustration.

4. How do I know if my Doberman has a paw infection?

Look for redness, swelling, foul odor, or discharge between the toes or pads. Your dog might limp or resist you touching the affected area — clear signs of an infection that needs vet attention.

5. Could parasites cause my Doberman to bite its paws?

Absolutely. Fleas, ticks, and mites can irritate the skin around the paws, causing intense itching and biting. Regular parasite prevention is key to stopping this behavior.

6. What are the signs of anxiety in Dobermans that lead to paw licking?

Repetitive behaviors like constant licking, pacing, whining, or hiding may indicate anxiety. Loud noises, changes in the environment, or being left alone can trigger these stress-related habits.

7. Can dry or cracked paw pads make my Doberman lick its paws?

Yes. Harsh weather, hot pavement, or lack of moisture can dry out paw pads, leading to licking as your Doberman tries to soothe discomfort. Paw balm or coconut oil can help.

8. Should I stop my Doberman from licking its paws?

You shouldn’t ignore it, but don’t punish the behavior either. Instead, find and treat the cause — whether it’s medical (infection, allergies) or behavioral (boredom, anxiety).

9. How can I prevent my Doberman from chewing its paws?

Keep paws clean and dry, feed a high-quality diet, use vet-approved flea/tick preventatives, and ensure plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Regular grooming also helps you spot issues early.

10. Is it normal for Dobermans to lick their paws occasionally?

Yes, occasional paw licking is normal for self-cleaning. It becomes concerning when it’s excessive or obsessive, indicating irritation or an underlying issue.

11. Can diet affect my Doberman’s paw health?

Definitely. Poor nutrition or food sensitivities can cause skin inflammation. A balanced diet with omega-3 fatty acids supports healthy skin and reduces paw irritation.

12. What home remedies can help soothe my Doberman’s itchy paws?

You can try rinsing paws with diluted apple cider vinegar (1:1 with water), applying aloe vera gel, or using an oatmeal soak. Always consult your vet before using any remedy regularly.

13. Could a Doberman’s paw-licking be a sign of pain?

Yes. Joint pain, arthritis, or an injury (like a splinter or cut) can cause your dog to focus on licking one paw. If it’s persistent or localized, see a vet immediately.

14. When should I take my Doberman to the vet for paw licking?

If licking is constant, causing redness, bleeding, swelling, or hair loss, visit the vet. Persistent licking can worsen the condition and lead to infection.

15. Can paw licking in Dobermans be related to allergies year-round?

Yes. Environmental allergies like dust or mold can affect your Doberman even indoors, leading to year-round licking. Seasonal changes may worsen symptoms in some dogs.

Licking their paws is a common behavior in Dobermans, 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 Doberman 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 Doberman 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 Doberman’s paws clean, pain-free, and healthy every day.

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.