How do I stop my dog from licking his paw?

There is normally an initial reason for licking the area – an insect bite, a small cut or underlying allergies are common triggers. Infection can set in and the act of licking can then become a compulsive behavioural habit. Treatment may involve one or more of the following: the use of toys and games to reduce any boredom or stress medication to help suppress the itchy sensation and therefore reduce the urge to lick physically preventing the act of licking by using bandages or Elizabethan collars. Oral or topically applied antibiotics to combat any infection present cryotherapy (freezing) or surgery to remove the affected skin. The complex nature of the problem dictates the need for a broad approach to the treatment. A trial and error approach may be necessary. Not all dogs respond to the same treatment, so patience and persistence will be required to find the most effective solution.