If you are a pup parent, you may have noticed your dog excessively licking or biting their paws. This compulsion can be harmful because your dog may end up breaking the skin, which increases the likelihood of an infection. For this reason, it is in your best interest to stop the behavior immediately. 

Now, this is easier said than done. I know that if I tell my dog to stop doing anything, she rolls her eyes and ignores me. 

What you'll first want to do is to figure out the issue. When it comes to your pet’s health, you should consult your veterinarian, who will likely inform you that your pet is either suffering from fleas or allergies. 

If your furry friend has fleas, they will likely be given prescription medication. However, if your pup has allergies, there are a few different routes you can take. An easy way to limit your pup’s exposure to common allergens is to regularly clean their surroundings. For instance, you should wash their plush toys and bedding every week. It is also a good idea to ditch carpets. However, if you can't, you should vacuum every few days. Purchasing dehumidifiers can help reduce the chance of getting mold in your home. Your veterinarian may also recommend antihistamine medications, steroid medications, allergen-specific immunotherapy, or hypoallergenic shampoo. 

There could also be a chance that your canine companion is licking their foot because they have injured it. If that is the cause, your veterinarian will treat the area accordingly. 

Your pup may also be licking their paws out of boredom. To remedy that issue, you will want to make sure that your furry friend is getting enough exercise. Consider taking your furry friend on daily walks and having rousing games of fetch. You can also purchase interactive toys, so they have something more productive to focus their energy on.