Seeing your dog pant excessively while also chewing or biting at their paws can be concerning.
Panting is often linked to heat regulation or stress, while paw-biting may signal irritation or discomfort. Together, they can point to underlying issues.
We outline the common causes of a dog panting and biting it’s paws, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Panting and Biting Paws — Why It Happens
Dog panting and paw-biting is often a sign your dog is uncomfortable, in pain, or dealing with a medical condition. Allergies, skin infections, injuries, parasites, or stress can all play a role. Sometimes, it’s a combination of both physical and emotional triggers — for example, a dog with itchy paws from pollen may pant more due to discomfort or anxiety.
The symptoms can also appear with systemic issues like hormonal imbalances, pain from arthritis, or even side effects from certain medications.
Dog Panting and Biting Paws: Common Causes
Allergies
Allergies are one of the most common reasons dogs chew their paws. Environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, or grass can make the skin between their toes itchy and inflamed.
Panting may happen alongside because the itchiness causes stress, discomfort, or even mild pain. You might notice redness between the toes, licking, or chewing at night.
Allergies can worsen over time if untreated, and chronic chewing can lead to secondary infections.
Read more: Dog Panting and Biting Tail (Here’s why)
Skin Infections
Bacterial or fungal infections can cause intense itching and irritation in a dog’s paws. These infections often develop after prolonged licking or chewing, breaking down the skin’s protective barrier.
The discomfort can make dogs pant more, especially if they are in pain or restless. Symptoms may include swelling, redness, odor, or discharge from the paws.
Left untreated, infections can spread and lead to more serious health concerns.
Parasites
Fleas, mites, and ticks can cause paw-biting due to constant itching. Mites like those that cause mange often hide in less obvious areas, including between the toes.
Panting can occur if the infestation is severe enough to cause stress or pain. You might see hair loss, scabbing, or excessive scratching.
Parasite control is crucial, as untreated infestations can lead to widespread skin problems.
Pain or Injury
Injuries like cuts, splinters, burns, or even overgrown nails can cause localized paw pain. Dogs may chew at the affected spot to relieve discomfort.
Panting often accompanies pain, especially if the injury is acute. Swelling, limping, or avoiding weight-bearing on the paw are signs to look for.
Prompt care can prevent further damage and help your dog recover quickly.
Anxiety or Stress
Some dogs develop nervous habits, such as chewing their paws, when stressed or anxious. This can happen during thunderstorms, fireworks, or when left alone for long periods.
Panting is also a hallmark sign of canine stress. These behaviors may come and go depending on the environment.
While occasional anxiety is normal, chronic stress needs to be addressed for your dog’s well-being.
Hormonal Imbalances
Conditions like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease can cause skin changes, thinning fur, and increased susceptibility to infections.
These issues may lead to paw irritation and chewing, while panting can result from hormonal changes or muscle weakness.
Managing the underlying hormonal condition is necessary to improve your dog’s symptoms.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Panting and Biting Paws
First, try to identify any obvious triggers, like a recent walk through grass, a visible injury, or exposure to potential allergens. Rinse your dog’s paws with lukewarm water to remove irritants.
Provide a calm, cool environment if they seem stressed or overheated. A soothing paw balm may help with dryness, but avoid human creams unless advised by your vet.
If your dog’s paws look red, swollen, or have discharge, seek veterinary care for possible infection. For mild seasonal allergies, your vet may recommend antihistamines or medicated wipes.
Address stress by offering enrichment activities, comfort items, or adjusting routines to reduce anxiety.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek immediate veterinary help if your dog’s panting is excessive, labored, or accompanied by signs like pale gums, collapse, or extreme lethargy.
Persistent paw-biting that leads to bleeding, swelling, or limping should be evaluated promptly.
If you notice symptoms such as sudden weight changes, skin lesions, or behavioral changes alongside these issues, a full veterinary assessment is needed.
Read more: Dog panting excessively (Here’s why)
Key Takeaway
Panting and paw-biting in dogs can stem from a range of causes, from simple allergies to more serious medical conditions.
Observing your dog’s symptoms closely and acting early can make a big difference in their comfort and recovery.
When in doubt, consult your veterinarian to rule out underlying issues and get tailored treatment advice.
Your prompt attention can help your dog feel better — and keep those paws healthy and itch-free.