What Happens When You Don't Drink Enough Water? 10 Hidden Effects on Your Body

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  1. What happens to your blood when you become dehydrated? Blood contains: Red blood cells. White blood cells. Platelets. Plasma, which is mostly water. Proteins, electrolytes, nutrients and other substances. When the body loses too much water, plasma volume can decrease. This can cause hemoconcentration, meaning some substances in the blood appear more concentrated. Possible effects include: Increased blood viscosity under some circumstances. Reduced circulating blood volume. Increased strain on the cardiovascular system. Reduced blood flow to organs in severe dehydration. This is different from having excessive cholesterol or fatty deposits in arteries. NCBI+2 2. Does dehydration increase cholesterol readings? This is where our article can become particularly interesting. A small human study involving 15 healthy participants found that fasting without fluid replacement produced higher measured total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol than fasting with water and sal...
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Why Does My Dog Keep Licking Its Paws? 7 Possible Reasons and What You Can Do

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Have you ever noticed your dog repeatedly licking or chewing its paws? Occasionally licking their paws is normal grooming behaviour. However, when it becomes frequent or excessive, it may be a sign that something is irritating your dog's skin or causing discomfort.

Paw licking is a behaviour dog owners should not ignore, especially when it continues for several days or causes redness, swelling or hair loss.

So, why does your dog keep licking its paws? Let's explore seven possible reasons and what you can do to help.

1. Allergies

Allergies are among the common reasons dogs repeatedly lick their paws.

Dogs can develop allergic reactions to environmental substances such as pollen, grass, dust mites and mould. Certain ingredients in their food may also trigger food allergies.

When an allergic reaction affects the skin, your dog may experience itching, redness and irritation, particularly between the toes and around the paw pads.

What you can do:

  • Wipe your dog's paws after outdoor walks.

  • Keep your dog's sleeping area clean.

  • Observe whether paw licking becomes worse during certain seasons.

  • Consult a veterinarian if the itching continues.

2. Irritation from Grass, Chemicals or Cleaning Products

Your dog's paws come into contact with many surfaces every day.

Grass, road dust, fertilisers, pesticides, floor cleaners and other chemicals may irritate sensitive paw skin.

Some dogs begin licking their paws shortly after walking outside or coming into contact with a recently cleaned floor.

What you can do:

  • Rinse your dog's paws with clean water after outdoor activities.

  • Dry the paws gently, including between the toes.

  • Avoid walking your dog on surfaces treated with chemicals.

  • Use pet-safe cleaning products around your home.

3. Dry, Cracked or Injured Paw Pads

A dog's paw pads provide protection when walking and running. However, rough surfaces, hot pavement, cold weather and excessive activity can cause irritation or injury.

Dry or cracked paw pads may become uncomfortable, encouraging your dog to lick the affected area.

Look for cracks, cuts, bleeding or unusual changes in the paw pads.

What you can do:

  • Check the paw pads regularly.

  • Avoid walking on excessively hot surfaces.

  • Ask your veterinarian about suitable paw moisturising products.

  • Have deep cracks, bleeding or painful injuries examined.

4. Bacterial or Yeast Infections

Sometimes, excessive paw licking creates a cycle of irritation.

Constant moisture from licking can encourage the growth of bacteria or yeast, particularly in the warm spaces between the toes.

Possible warning signs include:

  • Red or swollen skin.

  • Brownish staining around the paws.

  • An unpleasant smell.

  • Greasy or irritated skin.

  • Persistent itching and licking.

If you notice these symptoms, arrange a veterinary examination. The appropriate treatment depends on the type and severity of infection.

5. Pain or Physical Discomfort

Not every case of paw licking is caused by itching.

Your dog may be licking a paw because of pain from a small wound, thorn, splinter, insect sting, broken nail or joint discomfort.

Pay attention if your dog repeatedly focuses on just one paw.

Check carefully for foreign objects, cuts, swelling and damaged nails. If your dog is limping or showing signs of pain, seek veterinary attention.

6. Boredom, Stress or Anxiety

Dogs sometimes lick their paws as a response to boredom, stress or anxiety.

For example, dogs left alone for long periods may develop repetitive behaviours as a way of coping with their emotions.

This behaviour can become habitual, even after the original source of stress has disappeared.

What you can do:

  • Provide regular exercise and playtime.

  • Offer interactive toys and activities.

  • Maintain a consistent daily routine.

  • Give your dog opportunities for mental stimulation.

  • Seek professional advice if the behaviour becomes compulsive.

Remember that anxiety should not be assumed until possible medical causes have been investigated.

7. Parasites and Insect Bites

Fleas, mites and other parasites can cause intense itching and skin irritation.

Although fleas are more commonly associated with itching around the body and tail, parasites and insect bites can also contribute to paw irritation.

Watch for excessive scratching, redness, small bumps and hair loss.

What you can do:

  • Check your dog's skin and paws regularly.

  • Maintain an appropriate parasite prevention programme.

  • Wash your dog's bedding regularly.

  • Consult your veterinarian about suitable parasite treatments.

When Should You Take Your Dog to the Veterinarian?

Occasional paw licking is generally normal. However, persistent licking deserves attention.

Consider arranging a veterinary examination if your dog experiences:

  • Continuous licking or chewing of its paws.

  • Redness, swelling or bleeding.

  • Open sores or damaged skin.

  • A bad smell coming from the paws.

  • Limping or difficulty walking.

  • Hair loss around the toes.

  • Signs of pain or discomfort.

Seek prompt veterinary care for severe pain, significant swelling, deep wounds or an inability to bear weight.

How to Prevent Excessive Paw Licking

Although not every cause can be prevented, good daily care can help keep your dog's paws healthy.

Here are five simple habits:

  1. Inspect the paws daily: Check between the toes, around the nails and underneath the paw pads.

  2. Clean after outdoor walks: Remove dirt, grass and possible irritants.

  3. Keep the paws dry: Moisture trapped between the toes can contribute to skin problems.

  4. Maintain proper grooming: Keep nails at a suitable length and trim excessive hair around the paws when appropriate.

  5. Provide a balanced diet and regular exercise: Good general care supports your dog's overall wellbeing.

Avoid applying human creams, antiseptics or medication without veterinary advice.

If your dog keeps licking its paws, it may be trying to tell you something.

The cause could be relatively simple, such as dirt or temporary irritation, but persistent licking may also indicate allergies, infections, injuries or anxiety.

The important thing is to observe your dog's behaviour, inspect its paws regularly and seek veterinary advice when necessary.

A little attention today can help prevent a small problem from becoming a bigger one.

Remember: Healthy paws help your dog enjoy a happier, more comfortable life! 🐾

Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary diagnosis or treatment.

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