why do dogs lick their paws at night

Dogs might lick their paws all through the night for several reasons, which range in being normal or indicators of a problem: Your dog is grooming/cleaning itself. Dogs groom themselves just like cats. Licking their paws is how they groom these body parts. This is especially true when they walked on something sticky or dirty during the day.

Allergies: Dogs can be allergic to some environmental substances or even to food, finally leading to a general itching, mainly in the paws area, so they start licking them to reduce the itching feeling.

Injury or Irritation: If a dog has some minor injury, like a cut, a thorn, or even an insect bite on the paw, then they may start licking it to comfort from the irritation or try to heal it. Licking also occurs due to something being in between their paw pads.

Anxiety or Stress: Some dogs engage in paw licking as a self-soothing behavior when they are anxious or stressed. For some dogs, the nighttime, when everyone has gone to bed and the house is quiet, can be an anxiety-provoking time.

Boredom: The dog can start licking his paws due to a lack of mental or physical stimulation during the day. That develops into a habit or becomes a form of 'time-pass'.

Dermatitis or Skin Conditions: Inflammation and itching may result from skin conditions as simple as dermatitis in dogs. Licking of the paws could then be caused by an underlying skin condition.

Pain or Arthritis: Pain in the older animal, or an animal that has any issues with its joints, could be the cause of paw licking. This is quite common with arthritis, where licking is a way to address discomfort.

If your dog licks his paws once in a while, in general, there is nothing much to be worried about. If it increases in frequency, especially at night, then it would be wise to consult a veterinarian to rule out what health issues are at play.