DOG owners are being urged to take paw licking seriously as the darker nights set in.
Harry Chapman, General Director at DotDotPet, warns that what may seem like a quirky habit could actually be a sign of underlying health problems.
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“Many owners dismiss paw licking as boredom, but it can be an early warning sign of discomfort or inflammation,” Chapman explained.
Just like humans feel joint stiffness in colder months, dogs also react to seasonal changes.
Chapman noted: “Statistics show that paw licking spikes in autumn and winter.
“Dogs often become slower on walks and spend more time licking their paws—these are signs of discomfort, not mischief.”
Constant dampness from rain, puddles, and mud can soften paw pads, making them prone to irritation or small cracks.
Switching between cold, wet outdoors and warm, dry indoors can also dry out the skin, leaving paws itchy, similar to how humans often notice chapped lips or dry hands in winter.
Both lead dogs to lick to relieve soreness and irritation.
Chapman recommends plasma supplements to fight seasonal discomfort.
“These supplements reduce inflammation naturally while supporting skin, gut, and joint health,” he said.
“We’ve seen excellent results in dogs experiencing autumn itchiness.”
Beyond supplements, simple steps can make a big difference: rinse paws after walks to remove allergens or irritants, dry them thoroughly (eco towels are ideal), monitor for excessive licking, and always consult a vet if new symptoms appear.
“Paw licking isn’t just a quirky behaviour—it’s your dog telling you something important about their health,” Chapman concluded.
With the right care, natural support, and preventative measures, pet owners can keep their four-legged friends happy and comfortable as the seasons change.
Vet Dr. Rachel Siu reveals the 5 dogs she’d never own
By Marsha O’Mahony
HUSKY
Beautiful, intelligent, and super-active, like a Border Collie, a Husky is a working dog and likes to keep busy.
If you lead a sedentary life, then this guy is not for you, and you are not for him.
It should be no surprise that Huskies love the cold – look at that coat of fur. So, living in 110 degrees in Texas is pretty grim for these dogs.
DACHSHUND
Adorable, cute, funny, and they can be very expensive.
The basic physiology of these sausage dogs does them no favours. “Because of their long backs, they’re really prone to intervertebral disc disease,” said Dr. Rachel.
You would be wise to keep a pot of money aside just in case because back surgery is likely to be expensive.
GREAT DANE
These lolloping, loving, and gregarious dogs are “goofballs.”
But they have short lifespans, developing health issues early on in life. Prepare yourself for heartbreak.
DOODLE
These are the current “it” dog, they are everywhere. They can be mixed with pretty much any other breed.
Their popularity has soared in recent years, with pet owners attracted to their low maintenance and hypoallergenic qualities.
But this couldn’t be further from the truth, said our vet.
“These dogs are often mixed with shedding dogs so they do shed and they also need grooming very frequently,” she wrote.
Their temperament is unpredictable and she has seen some that are wonderful to work with and others who have serious behavioral problems.
BULLDOGS
These guys are adorable but they have serious respiratory problems. Genetics are not on the side of any brachycephalic dog.
“I just would not own them,” she said. “They’re just not a healthy breed. They struggle to breathe with their smooshed faces.”
Like the Dachshund, they also suffer from intervertebral disc disease.
