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

Reasons Why Your Dogue De Bordeaux Licks and Bites Its Paws

1. Allergies

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. If a Dogue De Bordeaux is licking their 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 Dogue De Bordeaux 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 Dogue De Bordeaux 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 Dogue De Bordeaux 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 Dogue De Bordeaux 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

Dogue De Bordeaux are highly sensitive to their environment, so it’s not unusual for them to develop anxiety or stress if something changes. If your Dogue De Bordeaux 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 Dogue De Bordeaux’s behavior and to try to alleviate any stress they may be feeling.

If you believe your Dogue De Bordeaux 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

Dogue De Bordeaux 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 Dogue De Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux constantly licking its paws?

Excessive paw licking in Dogue de Bordeaux dogs is often caused by allergies, skin irritation, parasites, or infections. Environmental triggers like pollen, grass, or cleaning products can make their paws itchy, leading to over-licking.

2. Can allergies cause my Dogue de Bordeaux to bite its paws?

Yes. Allergies are one of the most common causes of paw biting in this breed. They may be allergic to certain foods, grass, dust mites, or household chemicals. The irritation causes discomfort, leading your dog to chew or lick excessively.

3. How do I know if my Dogue de Bordeaux has a paw infection?

Check for signs like redness, swelling, odor, pus, or limping. Infected paws may also feel warm to the touch. If you notice these symptoms, it’s best to consult your veterinarian promptly.

4. Could anxiety cause my Dogue de Bordeaux to lick its paws?

Yes. Stress or boredom can cause compulsive behaviors such as paw licking. Separation anxiety or lack of mental stimulation often leads to repetitive self-soothing actions like this.

5. What parasites cause paw licking or chewing in Dogue de Bordeaux dogs?

Fleas, ticks, and mites (especially mange mites) can make the skin on your dog’s paws itchy and inflamed. Regular parasite prevention and grooming can help reduce this risk.

6. How can I stop my Dogue de Bordeaux from licking its paws excessively?

First, identify the root cause. Clean the paws daily, use hypoallergenic wipes, and ensure there are no wounds or irritants. For persistent issues, see a vet — they might prescribe medicated shampoos or allergy treatments.

7. Can dry or cracked paw pads cause licking or biting?

Absolutely. Dry, rough, or cracked pads can be painful and itchy. Moisturizing balms or dog-safe paw creams can help heal the area and reduce discomfort.

8. Is it normal for a Dogue de Bordeaux to lick its paws occasionally?

Yes, occasional paw licking is normal — it’s part of grooming. However, if it becomes frequent, intense, or leads to redness and sores, it may signal a medical or behavioral issue.

9. Could food allergies be making my Dogue de Bordeaux lick its paws?

Yes, food allergies are a common culprit. Ingredients like chicken, beef, or dairy can trigger itchy skin and paw irritation. Your vet may recommend an elimination diet to identify the cause.

10. What home remedies can I try for my Dogue de Bordeaux’s itchy paws?

You can rinse their paws in a diluted apple cider vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 2 parts water) to reduce bacteria. Always dry their paws thoroughly afterward and avoid open wounds when using this remedy.

11. How can I prevent paw irritation in my Dogue de Bordeaux?

Wipe their paws after walks, especially in areas with salt, grass, or chemicals. Keep their living area clean and use dog-safe cleaning products. Regular grooming also helps detect early signs of irritation.

12. What should I feed my Dogue de Bordeaux to reduce paw licking from allergies?

Consider switching to a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic diet with novel proteins like duck or venison. Adding omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) can also help soothe inflammation and improve skin health.

13. How do seasonal changes affect my Dogue de Bordeaux’s paw licking?

In spring and summer, grass and pollen allergies spike, while winter brings dry air and salted sidewalks — both can irritate paws. Adjusting paw care routines seasonally can help minimize discomfort.

14. Should I use an e-collar to stop my Dogue de Bordeaux from licking its paws?

Only as a short-term solution. An e-collar prevents licking while the skin heals, but doesn’t address the underlying cause. It’s best used alongside veterinary treatment or allergy management.

15. When should I see a vet about my Dogue de Bordeaux’s paw licking?

If licking persists for more than a few days, causes redness, sores, limping, or swelling, it’s time to visit the vet. Chronic licking can lead to infections or deeper skin problems if untreated.

Licking their paws is a common behavior in Dogue De Bordeaux, 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 Dogue De Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux 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 Dogue de Bordeaux’s paws clean, pain-free, and healthy every day.

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