Dog Licking and Biting Paw Skin by Nail

by | May 10, 2019 | Ask A Vet, Skin Issues | 0 comments

by Malachi H.
(Chicago, IL)

Blu is an 110 lb 3yr old Doberman in good health. For the past year his diet has consisted of canned mackerel canned chicken, canned turkey and raw chicken necks.

After a bout with an ear infection the vet recommended a change in diet from chicken necks to turkey necks, so for the past few weeks Blu has dined on turkey necks. This is when Blu started this behavior, however not sure if this is the cause because he has done this before but not this severe.

Is there anything that I can apply to discourage the licking so that the area can heal?

Comments for Dog Licking and Biting Paw Skin by Nail

Aug 19, 2014Response to “Dog Licking and Biting Paw Skin by Nail”
by: Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

Hi Malachi,

From the photo of Blu’s foot, the toenail on the toe where he is licking appears to have a brown residue at the nail bed area. This usually indicates a secondary yeast problem, due to excessive moisture.

You can soak his foot in a diluted apple cider vinegar solution, 50:50 water to vinegar twice a day. Or ‘paint’ apple cider vinegar on the nail bed area with a Q-tip, two times daily.

He also needs to have the homeopathic remedy, Sulphur 12C. Dissolve one pellet in a 2 oz dropper bottle, and give him 1/2 dropperful by mouth TWO times daily for 3-6 weeks. Shake, (called succussing) the bottle 20 times by hitting it against the palm of your hand before each dose.

Another resource for vets knowledgeable in homeopathy is AVH.org.

Please keep us posted by coming back to this page and clicking the ‘click here to add your own comments’ link below.

Take care,
Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

DISCLAIMER: The above should never replace the advice of your local veterinarian, as they have the ability to evaluate your dog in person.

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