How To Fix Itchy Dog Paws at Home

by Katherine Khoo January 15, 2026 6 min read

Few things are more concerning to pet parents than watching their beloved furkids constantly lick or chew at their paws. This persistent behaviour not only indicates discomfort but can also lead to secondary infections and further complications. Itchy paws are one of the most common complaints by pet owners, and while professional medical attention is sometimes necessary, many cases can be effectively managed at home with the right knowledge and approach.

The first step toward providing relief is to understand the underlying causes of your dog's paw irritation. This guide will walk you through the most common reasons dogs develop itchy paws and provide practical, safe remedies you can implement in your own home to help your furry friend find comfort.

Five Common Reasons for Itchy Paws

Allergies: Environmental and Food

Allergies are the leading cause of itchy paws in dogs and fall into two main categories: environmental or food allergies. Environmental allergies occur when dogs react to substances like pollen, dust mites, mold spores, or grass. These allergies are typically seasonal and dogs with environmental allergies often show symptoms that coincide with specific times of year, and they may also experience itching in other areas like the ears, face, and belly.

Food allergies, on the other hand, occur year-round and are triggered by specific proteins or ingredients in your dog's diet, most commonly beef, chicken, dairy, wheat, or soy. The key difference in identifying which type affects your dog lies in the timing and pattern of symptoms.

If your dog's paw licking intensifies during certain seasons and improves during others, environmental allergies are likely the culprit. However, if the itching is constant throughout the year regardless of season, food allergies should be suspected. Additionally, food allergies often cause gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting or diarrhoea alongside the itchy paws, while environmental allergies typically don't.

Yeast Infection

Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of naturally occurring fungus, typically Malassezia, which thrives in warm, moist environments. Dogs with yeast infections on their paws will often display several telltale signs. The most obvious indicator is a distinctive musty or corn chip-like odour emanating from the paws. The skin between the toes and on the paw pads may appear reddened, inflamed, and sometimes darkened or discolored to a brown or rusty hue. You might also notice a greasy or waxy discharge, and your dog will likely lick their paws obsessively, further creating the moist environment that allows yeast to flourish. The itching from yeast infections is typically intense and can cause your dog significant distress.

Bacterial Infection

Bacterial infections, often caused by Staphylococcus bacteria, can develop when your dog's skin barrier is compromised through excessive licking, scratching, or environmental damage. Signs of a bacterial infection include visible pustules, areas of hair loss, and paw skin that appears red, swollen, and hot to the touch. The affected paws may produce a foul-smelling discharge, and your dog may limp due to pain.

Unlike yeast infections, bacterial infections often cause more acute pain and sensitivity, making your dog reluctant to have their paws touched or examined. The skin may also develop crusting or scabbing as the infection progresses.

Cracked Paws

Cracked paw pads are exactly what they sound like: dry, fissured skin on the tough pads of your dog's feet. Signs include visible cracks or splits in the paw pad surface, rough and dry texture, peeling skin, and sometimes bleeding from deeper cracks. Your dog may exhibit a reluctance to walk on certain surfaces, particularly rough or hot pavement, and may frequently lick the affected areas to soothe the discomfort. Cracked paws are commonly caused by exposure to extreme weather conditions, both hot pavement and cold, icy surfaces. Walking on rough terrain, exposure to harsh chemicals like road salt or de-icers, and nutritional deficiencies can all contribute to this condition.

Foreign Bodies

Foreign bodies are objects that become lodged in, stuck to your dog's paws, causing irritation, inflammation, and intense itching. Common culprits include grass seeds (especially foxtails), thorns, splinters, and small stones. These objects can penetrate the skin between the toes and become trapped in the fur covering the paws.

When a foreign body is present, your dog will typically exhibit sudden onset of licking or chewing at one specific paw, limping, and visible swelling or redness are often observed around the entry point. You may be able to see the foreign object protruding from the paw, or notice a small puncture wound. The area around a foreign body often becomes infected quickly, as the object introduces bacteria beneath the skin and creates an inflammatory response as the body tries to expel the intruder.

Five Home Remedies for Itchy Paws

Epsom Salt Soaks

Epsom salt soaks are an excellent first-line treatment for itchy, inflamed paws. Dissolve about 1/4 cup of Epsom salt in a litre of warm water and allow your dog to stand in the solution for five to ten minutes, or use a smaller container to soak individual paws. The magnesium in Epsom salt helps reduce inflammation, draw out toxins, and soothe irritated skin. This treatment is particularly effective for mild bacterial infections, general inflammation, and removing allergens from the paws after outdoor walks. Perform this treatment once or twice daily until symptoms improve, and always thoroughly dry your dog's paws afterward to prevent moisture buildup.

Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

Apple cider vinegar has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that make it particularly useful for treating yeast infections and mild bacterial issues. Create a 50-50 mixture of raw, organic apple cider vinegar and water, and apply it to your dog's paws using a spray bottle or by soaking.

You can also soak a clean cloth in the solution and wrap it around the affected paw for five minutes. The acidic nature of apple cider vinegar helps restore the skin's natural pH balance, making it less hospitable to yeast and bacteria. Never apply undiluted vinegar, and avoid using this remedy if your dog has open wounds or raw skin, as it will sting!

Coconut Oil Application

Coconut oil serves multiple purposes in treating itchy paws. Its natural antifungal and antibacterial properties help combat infections, while its moisturizing qualities make it ideal for treating cracked, dry paw pads.

Apply organic, cold-pressed coconut oil directly to your dog's paws, gently massaging it into the pads and between the toes. For cracked paws, apply generously before bedtime and consider using dog booties or socks to keep the oil in place overnight and prevent your dog from licking it off. For general itching and mild infections, apply two to three times daily. As a bonus, coconut oil is safe for dogs to ingest, so you don't need to worry if your dog licks their paws after application.

Change Dog Food and Add Supplements

If food allergies are suspected, transitioning to a limited ingredient diet or novel protein diet is essential. The first step is to identify the protein allergen and often, an Elimination Diet is necessary. Once you’ve identified the offending protein, choose a high-quality dog food that contains a single protein source, and does not contain the allergen. Take note to avoid all treats, table scraps, supplements and flavoured medications that might contain the allergen.

Supplementing your dog's diet can also significantly improve paw health. Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation and support skin health, making them particularly beneficial for dogs with allergies. Probiotics supports gut health and can help modulate the immune system's response to allergens. Biotin and vitamin E supplements promote healthy skin and aid in healing cracked paws. Always consult with your veterinarian about appropriate dosages for your dog's size and specific condition.

Regular Paw Cleaning and Maintenance

Prevention is often the best medicine, and establishing a regular paw care routine can significantly reduce itching episodes. After every walk, wipe your dog's paws with an anti-microbial pet-safe wipes or use a paw cleaner to remove allergens, dirt, and irritants. For dogs with environmental allergies, this simple step can dramatically reduce symptoms by preventing allergens from being absorbed through the skin or licked off later.

Keep the fur between your dog's toes trimmed short to prevent moisture accumulation and reduce the likelihood of foreign bodies becoming trapped. Regularly inspect your dog's paws for signs of injury, foreign objects, or developing infections. If necessary, apply a paw protective balm before outdoor excursions and avoid walking on hot pavement.

While itchy paws can make your dog miserable, most cases respond well to home treatment when addressed promptly. However, it's important to recognize when professional veterinary care is needed. If symptoms persist beyond a week of home treatment, worsen despite your efforts, or if you notice signs of severe infection such as intense swelling, pus, bleeding, or if your dog develops a fever or becomes lethargic, seek veterinary attention immediately. With the right approach and consistency, you can help your dog's paws heal and prevent future episodes of discomfort.