Why Dogs Lick Their Paws and Rub Their Faces: Causes, Risks, and How to Stop It
If you've ever seen your dog lick its paw and then rub its face like a cat, you're not alone—and you're right to wonder if it's normal.
Many dog owners feel uneasy when their furry friend touches their face with their claws, especially near the eyes.
Could they hurt themselves? Is this something all dogs do? And what should you do if it seems excessive?
This guide will explain everything in a simple and friendly way, so even first-time dog owners can understand what’s going on and how to help their pets stay safe and healthy.
Is It Normal for Dogs to Lick Their Paws and Rub Their Face?
Yes, in most cases, this behavior is completely natural.
While it might look similar to how cats wash their faces, dogs do it for slightly different reasons.
Dogs usually lick their paws and then wipe their faces to:
Clean off dirt or moisture around the eyes or mouth
Soothe an itch caused by pollen, dust, or a bug bite
Relax themselves, especially after sleep or stress
Experts say it’s often a form of light grooming or self-soothing. If it only happens occasionally and doesn’t cause irritation, there's usually no need to worry.
Can Dogs Hurt Their Eyes While Doing This?
Although uncommon, it’s possible for a dog to accidentally scratch their eye, especially if their nails are long or rough.
The risk increases in dogs with large, protruding eyes—like Pugs, Shih Tzus, or French Bulldogs—because their eyes are more exposed.
Warning signs of an eye injury may include:
Redness around the eye
Excessive blinking or squinting
Watery or goopy discharge
Constant pawing at the eye
If you notice any of these signs, take your dog to the vet right away. Scratches on the cornea can lead to infection or vision loss if not treated quickly.
When Does This Behavior Become a Problem?
Licking paws and rubbing the face isn’t always just grooming. If your dog does this too often or seems uncomfortable, it could be a sign of something more serious, such as:
Environmental allergies (like pollen, grass, or dust mites)
Food sensitivities
Dry or irritated eyes
Anxiety or boredom
Yeast or bacterial infection in the paws
Veterinarians say that if your dog is licking and rubbing many times a day, especially with signs of redness or hair loss, it’s time to look deeper.
How to Prevent Eye Injury and Correct Excessive Licking
If your dog’s behavior seems a little too frequent—or you just want to be extra cautious—here are expert-backed steps you can take to manage it safely:
1. Keep Your Dog’s Nails Trimmed
Long or sharp nails are more likely to scratch the skin or eyes.
Vets recommend trimming your dog’s nails every 3 to 4 weeks.
If you’re nervous about doing it yourself, ask a groomer or use a nail grinder for smoother results.
2. Clean Their Paws and Face
After walks, gently wipe your dog’s paws with pet-safe wipes to remove dust, dirt, and allergens.
You can also use a soft cloth to wipe their face once a day, especially if they have tear stains or eye discharge.
3. Watch for Allergic Reactions
If your dog keeps licking or scratching certain areas, allergies might be to blame.
Common triggers include grass, chicken, or even ingredients in dog shampoo.
Talk to your vet about doing an allergy test or switching to a limited-ingredient diet.
4. Offer Mental and Physical Stimulation
Sometimes excessive licking is just a sign of boredom.
Puzzle toys, interactive games, and daily walks can help release pent-up energy and keep your dog’s mind occupied.
5. Visit the Vet if It Persists
If the behavior becomes obsessive or causes visible irritation, it’s time for a professional opinion.
Your vet may prescribe allergy meds, calming supplements, or refer you to a veterinary dermatologist or behaviorist.
What Happens If You Ignore It?
Occasional paw licking isn’t dangerous, but ignoring repeated or intense behavior can lead to:
Accidental scratches on the eye
Chronic irritation or infection
Bald patches or open wounds from over-licking
Long-term anxiety or compulsive habits
Addressing the issue early helps prevent discomfort and avoids more serious health problems down the line.
Final Thoughts for New Dog Owners
It’s totally normal for dogs to occasionally lick their paws and rub their faces.
It’s just part of how they groom themselves. But when the behavior becomes repetitive, causes irritation, or seems driven by stress, it’s important to step in.
With a little observation, regular grooming, and some extra care, you can make sure your dog stays healthy, comfortable, and scratch-free.
Top 10 Questions Related to Dog Rubbing Face with Paw
Q1. Why does my dog lick its paws and rub its face like a cat?
This is usually a normal grooming behavior. Dogs often do it to clean their face, relieve an itch, or calm themselves.
Q2. Can a dog hurt its eye by rubbing its face with its paws?
Yes, especially if the nails are long or sharp. Dogs with bulging eyes are more at risk for accidental scratches or irritation.
Q3. Is paw licking a sign of allergies in dogs?
Yes, excessive paw licking can be a symptom of food or environmental allergies. It’s best to consult a vet if it persists.
Q4. Should I stop my dog from licking its paws?
Occasional licking is fine, but obsessive licking could indicate a health issue or emotional distress and should be addressed.
Q5. How often should I trim my dog’s nails to prevent face injuries?
Trimming every 3 to 4 weeks is recommended to keep nails blunt and prevent accidental scratches during grooming behavior.
Q6. What does it mean if my dog rubs its face on furniture or the floor?
This may indicate itchiness, skin irritation, or something stuck around the mouth or eyes. If frequent, a vet visit is advised.
Q7. Can food allergies cause face rubbing in dogs?
Yes, especially around the muzzle and eyes. Common culprits include chicken, beef, and certain grains in commercial dog food.
Q8. How can I tell if face rubbing is a behavioral problem?
If it’s repetitive, forceful, or accompanied by other stress behaviors (pacing, whining), it may be compulsive and need behavioral training.
Q9. What should I use to clean my dog’s face and paws safely?
Use hypoallergenic pet wipes or a damp cloth. Avoid human soap or harsh chemicals, which can irritate sensitive dog skin.
Q10. What home remedies help reduce paw licking?
Keep the paws clean, offer mental stimulation, and use vet-approved paw balms. For allergies, consider dietary changes or supplements.
So, that's all for why dogs lick their feet and rub their faces: causes, risks, and how to stop it. I hope this article was helpful to you as a dog owner, and if you can share it with someone who needs it, I'd appreciate it.
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