Why Is My Shih Tzu Licking Their Paws Excessively? A Vet‘s Guide to 7 Common Causes and Solutions

As a veterinarian and lifelong dog lover, I‘ve seen my fair share of Shih Tzus over the years. With their regal fluff, playful personalities, and loyal companionship, it‘s no wonder this ancient breed has captured the hearts of so many. Bred to be the ultimate lapdogs for Chinese emperors, Shih Tzus have a long, silky coat that requires regular brushing and grooming to prevent mats and tangles. But while most Shih Tzu owners are tuned into their dog‘s coat care needs, another area that often gets overlooked is the paws.

If you‘ve noticed your Shih Tzu excessively licking or chewing their paws, you‘re not alone. According to a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, paw licking was the most commonly reported repetitive behavior in dogs, with 16.5% of owners reporting the issue. For Shih Tzus, that number may be even higher due to some of their breed-specific characteristics like their long coat, short muzzle, and skin folds.

As a dog lover, you may be tempted to dismiss your Shih Tzu‘s paw licking as just a quirky behavior. But as a vet, I‘m here to tell you that excessive paw licking is often a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. In this article, I‘ll dive into the top 7 reasons why your Shih Tzu may be licking their paws too much and what you can do to help them feel better.

1. Allergies

If your Shih Tzu is licking their paws frequently, the first thing I always suspect is allergies. Shih Tzus can be prone to both environmental allergies (like pollen, mold, and dust mites) and food allergies. In fact, one study found that 1 in 5 Shih Tzus suffered from atopic dermatitis, an inflammatory skin condition often caused by environmental allergies.

When a Shih Tzu has an allergic reaction, their skin becomes inflamed and itchy. Since the paws have less fur to protect the skin, they are often one of the first places dogs will lick or chew to try to relieve the itching. Other signs of allergies in Shih Tzus include:

• Red, watery eyes
• Runny nose or sneezing
• Recurrent ear infections
• Itchy belly or groin
• Skin infections or "hot spots"
• Diarrhea or vomiting (with food allergies)

If you suspect your Shih Tzu‘s paw licking is due to allergies, it‘s important to work with your vet to identify the trigger and come up with a treatment plan. This may involve:

• Allergy testing (blood test or intradermal skin test)
• Hypoallergenic diet trial
• Medications like Apoquel, Cytopoint, or steroids to control itching
• Medicated shampoos or wipes to soothe the skin
• Limiting exposure to environmental allergens
• Adding omega-3 fatty acid supplements

2. Anxiety or Boredom

Shih Tzus are social creatures that thrive on human interaction. Originally bred to spend their days lounging on the laps of royalty, Shih Tzus can become anxious or bored if left alone for long periods without enough mental stimulation.

Studies show that dogs who experience separation anxiety or lack of enrichment are more likely to engage in repetitive behaviors like paw licking. For Shih Tzus, this breed‘s tendency towards attachment to their owners may make them more susceptible to developing anxiety-related compulsive disorders.

In addition to excessive paw licking, other signs your Shih Tzu may be struggling with anxiety or boredom include:

• Following you from room to room
• Barking, whining, or howling when left alone
• Destructive chewing or digging
• Pacing or restlessness
• Loss of appetite
• Urinating or defecating in the house

As a Shih Tzu owner, there are several things you can do to help prevent boredom and soothe anxiety:

• Provide plenty of exercise with daily walks and playtime
• Use puzzle feeders and rotating toy options to encourage mental stimulation
• Practice positive reinforcement training to build confidence
• Consider doggy daycare or a midday dog walker if you work long hours
• Try calming aids like pheromone diffusers, compression shirts, or supplements
• Create a safe space with a crate or playpen when you have to leave
• Ask your vet about anti-anxiety medications for more severe cases

3. Pain or Injury

Many Shih Tzu owners are surprised to learn that excessive paw licking can sometimes be a sign of pain. If your normally chill pup suddenly starts going to town on one paw in particular, it‘s time for a closer look.

Common paw injuries I see in Shih Tzus include:

• Cut paw pads
• Torn toenails
• Fractured toes
• Foreign bodies stuck between toes (grass awns, burrs, pebbles)
• Burns from hot pavement
• Frostbite
• Insect stings or spider bites

Carefully examine your Shih Tzu‘s paw, checking between each toe and pad. Look for any cuts, swelling, discharge, or foreign material stuck in the fur. Press gently on each toe to check for pain. Don‘t forget to look at the top of the foot and nails too.

If you find an injury, it‘s best to have your vet take a look. They can clean the wound, prescribe pain medication and antibiotics if needed, and bandage the paw to keep it clean while it heals. Even if you don‘t see an obvious injury, any sudden, focused paw licking should be evaluated by a vet in case there is a hairline fracture, sprain, or other hidden issue.

4. Infections or Irritation

Those cute, fluffy Shih Tzu paws may be adorable, but all that fur can also trap moisture and debris between the toes, creating the perfect environment for infection. Hot spots, skin fold pyoderma, yeast dermatitis, and bacterial infections are common skin issues I see in Shih Tzus.

Excessive paw licking is often one of the first signs of infection, as the dog tries to relieve the itch and irritation. Other symptoms of skin infection in Shih Tzu paws include:

• Redness or inflammation between toes
• Brown discoloration of fur (often with yeast)
• Sticky or crusty discharge
• Foul odor
• Swelling or thickening of skin
• Itching or rubbing paws on furniture

According to one dermatology study, bacterial skin infections were the second most common reason for vet visits in Shih Tzus. If you notice any signs of paw infection in your Shih Tzu, it‘s important to get them evaluated by a vet ASAP. Quick treatment with antibiotics or antifungal medications can help prevent the infection from spreading and avoid more serious complications like sepsis or cellulitis.

To help prevent paw infections, I recommend:

• Wiping paws with a damp cloth after walks
• Keeping the fur between the toes and pads trimmed short
• Using a pet-safe anti-fungal powder in skin folds
• Bathing with a medicated shampoo as directed by your vet
• Avoiding walking on hot pavement or heavily chemically-treated grass

5. Dry or Cracked Paw Pads

Just like our feet, Shih Tzu paw pads can become dry, cracked, and rough, especially in cold or dry weather. This brittle, flaky skin is uncomfortable for your pup, leading to excessive licking and chewing.

To soothe and moisturize dry paw pads, try massaging a pea-sized amount of paw balm or petroleum jelly into the pads before bed. Make sure to get in between the toes too! For extra pampering, you can even get your Shih Tzu their own set of doggy booties to wear outside in harsh weather.

It‘s also important to keep your Shih Tzu‘s overall skin and coat healthy with proper grooming, a balanced diet, and omega-3 fatty acid supplements as recommended by your veterinarian. Regular brushing helps distribute the skin‘s natural oils and prevents matting that can trap irritants against the skin.

6. Parasites

Fleas, ticks, lice, and mites – oh my! External parasites are another common cause of itchy paws in Shih Tzus. Even just one little flea bite can trigger a hypersensitivity reaction in some dogs, leading to intense itching and excessive licking.

Carefully part your Shih Tzu‘s fur and examine the skin, especially in the warm areas parasites love like the groin, armpits, and between the toes. Look for:

• Actual live bugs crawling on the skin
• "Flea dirt" (black specks that turn reddish when wet)
• Scabs, bumps, or rashes, especially on the lower back near the tail
• Hair loss
• A musty odor

If you suspect parasites, take your Shih Tzu to the vet right away. Your vet can confirm the diagnosis with tests like a skin scrape and prescribe appropriate treatment like oral or topical medications. You‘ll also need to thoroughly clean your home environment and start your Shih Tzu on regular flea/tick preventatives to avoid reinfestation.

7. Nail Problems

Overgrown nails are a common problem I see in Shih Tzus. With their short legs and long coats, it can be easy for owners to forget about nail trims until their Shih Tzu is clicking on the floors. But overgrown nails are more than just a nuisance – they can lead to pain, altered gait, and even toe injuries.

Ingrown toenails, where the nail curves and grows back into the paw pad, are another painful issue I see in Shih Tzus. These can happen due to improper nail trimming, injury, or overgrowth. Excessive licking is often one of the first signs something is wrong with the nails.

To keep your Shih Tzu‘s nails healthy:

• Trim nails every 3-4 weeks using scissor-style clippers or a grinding tool
• Keep hair around the paws trimmed short so you can see the nails
• If you‘re not comfortable trimming at home, schedule regular vet or groomer visits
• Check paws daily for any signs of ingrown nails or injury
• Provide firm, grippy surfaces for your Shih Tzu to walk on like yoga mats or grass

When to See the Vet

As you can see, there are many potential reasons behind your Shih Tzu‘s excessive paw licking habit. Some issues, like dry paw pads or mild allergies, may improve with simple at-home remedies. But other problems like infections, parasites, and injuries need veterinary care.

I recommend scheduling a vet visit for any paw licking that:

• Goes on for more than a few days
• Seems to be getting worse
• Is excessive to the point of causing skin damage
• Involves limping or crying out in pain
• Comes with other symptoms like smelly discharge, hair loss, or swelling

Your vet can perform tests like skin scrapings, cultures, allergy tests, or x-rays to get to the bottom of your Shih Tzu‘s paw issues. We can then prescribe targeted treatments like antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, allergy meds, or physical therapy to get your pup back on their paws again.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much paw licking is normal for a Shih Tzu?
A little paw licking here and there is normal grooming behavior for any dog. But if your Shih Tzu is licking their paws multiple times a day, licking for long durations, or licking to the point of causing skin irritation, it‘s time to investigate further.

Can I use human lotion on my Shih Tzu‘s dry paw pads?
No, human lotions can contain ingredients that are toxic or irritating to dogs. It‘s best to stick with a paw balm made specifically for pets. You can also use a little coconut oil or shea butter in a pinch.

How often should I clean my Shih Tzu‘s paws?
I recommend gently wiping your Shih Tzu‘s paws with a damp cloth at least a few times a week, or whenever they come in from outside. This helps remove allergens and debris that can lead to irritation. For dirty or muddy paws, you can use a little dog shampoo and rinse thoroughly.

What should I do if my Shih Tzu keeps licking a paw after an injury?
It‘s natural for dogs to want to lick an injury, but excessive licking can actually delay healing and introduce infection. If your Shih Tzu won‘t leave a paw injury alone, I recommend using a plastic e-collar (the "cone of shame") or an inflatable donut collar to restrict access until it heals. You can also try covering the paw with a clean sock or bootie when supervised.

Can I give my Shih Tzu Benadryl for allergies?
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is a human OTC allergy medication that is sometimes used in dogs. However, the dosage is weight-specific and Benadryl doesn‘t always work well for dogs‘ itchy skin. It‘s best to talk to your vet before giving your Shih Tzu any human medication. There are newer, safer, more effective allergy meds made specifically for dogs that your vet can prescribe.

The Bottom Line

Excessive paw licking is often a sign something is wrong with your Shih Tzu‘s skin or overall health. While it may be tempting to write it off as a harmless quirk, ignoring paw licking for too long can actually make the problem worse. Prompt treatment for any underlying issues is key to preventing complications and keeping your Shih Tzu comfortable.

If your Shih Tzu‘s paw licking doesn‘t resolve with basic grooming and TLC within a few days, don‘t hesitate to get them checked out by a vet. With a thorough exam and appropriate treatment, we can help your Shih Tzu beat the paw licking habit and get back to living their best fluffy lap dog life.

As a vet, dog lover, and Shih Tzu admirer, I know how worrying any change in our dogs‘ behavior can be. But you don‘t have to go it alone! Your vet is always here to help you get to the bottom of your Shih Tzu‘s issues and find solutions that work for your unique situation. By staying vigilant, proactive, and committed to your Shih Tzu‘s whole body health, you can help them stay happy and paw-some for years to come.