If a dog is constantly licking its paws and scratching its ears, it can be uncomfortable for the pet and concerning for the owner. These behaviors are often linked to irritation, allergies, infections, or even parasites.
We outline the possible reasons why a dog may constantly lick its paws and scratch its ears, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Constantly Licking Paws and Scratching Ears — Why It Happens
Dogs who repeatedly lick their paws and scratch at their ears are usually experiencing discomfort from an underlying issue. Allergies, yeast or bacterial infections, parasites like fleas or mites, or even underlying skin conditions can cause these behaviors.
Environmental triggers such as pollen, dust, or certain foods may also play a role. Sometimes the problem lies in a combination of factors, making it important to pay attention to accompanying signs.
Dog Constantly Licking Paws and Scratching Ears: Possible Causes
Allergies
Allergies are one of the most common reasons for a dog to lick its paws and scratch its ears excessively. These can include environmental allergies to pollen, mold, or dust mites, as well as food allergies.
When exposed to allergens, a dog’s immune system reacts, causing itchy, inflamed skin.
The paws and ears are often the most affected areas because allergens can collect there. Owners might notice redness, swelling, or even a musty odor from the ears.
Persistent irritation can lead to secondary infections if not addressed promptly, which makes allergies a serious concern.
Read more: Dog Excessively Licking Privates (What it could mean)
Yeast Infections
Dogs naturally have small amounts of yeast on their skin, but an overgrowth can cause itchiness and irritation. Yeast infections commonly affect the ears and paws, leading to constant licking and scratching.
The signs often include greasy or scaly skin, a strong odor, and brown or yellow discharge from the ears. Dogs may chew at their feet until they are red and sore.
Yeast thrives in warm, moist environments, which is why the ears and paws are so frequently affected.
Bacterial Infections
When the skin barrier is compromised—whether from scratching, allergies, or moisture buildup—bacteria can invade and cause infection. Bacterial infections in the ears and on the paws are extremely uncomfortable.
Symptoms include redness, swelling, pus or discharge, and foul odor. Dogs may be restless, unable to sleep comfortably, and may whimper when touching the affected area.
These infections can worsen quickly and often require veterinary treatment.
Ear Mites
Ear mites are tiny parasites that infest the ear canal, causing intense itching and irritation. Dogs with mites will frequently scratch at their ears, shake their heads, and sometimes develop scabs around the ears from the constant scratching.
In addition to ear scratching, some dogs may lick their paws excessively due to irritation spreading from scratching behaviors. Owners might notice dark, crumbly debris in the ear that resembles coffee grounds.
If left untreated, ear mites can lead to more serious ear infections.
Fleas and Ticks
External parasites like fleas and ticks can cause widespread itching that includes the ears and paws. Dogs allergic to flea saliva may develop flea allergy dermatitis, which leads to severe scratching and licking.
Ticks can also irritate the skin around the ears and paws, especially if they attach in hidden areas. Signs include small bumps, redness, and excessive grooming behaviors.
Regular prevention is essential since fleas and ticks can also carry diseases.
Dermatitis and Skin Conditions
Some dogs develop dermatitis or chronic skin conditions that cause inflammation and itchiness. Contact dermatitis may occur from exposure to certain cleaning chemicals, shampoos, or grasses.
In these cases, the dog may focus on licking its paws where the skin came into contact with the irritant, while scratching the ears if irritation spread.
Chronic dermatitis may require long-term management to keep symptoms under control.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Constantly Licking Paws and Scratching Ears
If a dog is persistently licking its paws and scratching at its ears, start by checking the affected areas for redness, swelling, odor, or visible parasites. Gently clean the paws and outer ear with a veterinarian-approved solution to remove dirt and allergens.
Providing hypoallergenic wipes or medicated shampoos may help soothe the irritation. Switching to a limited-ingredient or veterinary-recommended diet can help rule out food allergies if the issue is chronic.
Keep the dog’s living environment clean by vacuuming regularly, washing bedding, and using flea preventatives consistently. Ensuring the dog’s paws are wiped after outdoor walks may also reduce exposure to pollen and irritants.
Always monitor if symptoms worsen, as persistent scratching or licking can create open wounds that quickly become infected.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
If a dog’s paws become swollen, raw, or bleeding, or if the ears have discharge, odor, or visible debris, a veterinary visit is necessary. Dogs that shake their heads excessively or cry when their ears are touched may have a painful infection that needs treatment.
Other concerning signs include hair loss, persistent redness, fever, lethargy, or sudden changes in behavior. If home remedies don’t help within a few days, professional evaluation is required.
Since ear infections, parasites, and allergies can worsen without proper treatment, prompt veterinary care can prevent complications and provide lasting relief for the dog.
Read more: Dog licking paws excessively (Why this happens)
Key Takeaway
Constant paw licking and ear scratching in dogs is usually a sign of discomfort caused by allergies, infections, parasites, or skin conditions. While some home care steps may provide temporary relief, veterinary attention is often needed to address the root cause.
By monitoring symptoms closely, maintaining good hygiene, and seeking timely veterinary help, owners can ensure their dog stays comfortable, healthy, and free from ongoing irritation.