Dog constantly scratches its ear, licks its paws and is restless
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Dog constantly scratches its ear, licks its paws and is restless – what is behind this?
If your dog is constantly scratching its ears, licking its paws, and seems noticeably restless, you shouldn't simply ignore it. Such behavior is usually a sign that something is wrong with your four-legged friend – physical or mental. In this article, you'll learn about possible causes , when you should take action , and what you can do to help your dog.
What does it mean if your dog constantly scratches and licks?
Occasional scratching or paw licking is perfectly normal for dogs. But when it happens constantly , perhaps accompanied by restlessness , sleep problems , or even skin changes, it's almost always a symptom of a deeper problem .
Typical signs:
- Scratching especially around the ears, under the belly or under the armpits
- Frequent licking or gnawing on the paws
- Restlessness , especially at night
- Shaking head , rubbing ears on carpet or furniture
- Redness, rashes or unpleasant odor
Common causes of scratching, paw licking & restlessness
1. Ear infection (otitis)
A classic cause of excessive ear scratching is an inflammation of the ear canal . This can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or parasites such as ear mites.
Typical:
- Scratching only in one ear
- Strong odor or dark secretion
- Tilting the head
2. Allergies (food allergies)
Many dogs suffer from environmental allergies (e.g., pollen, house dust) or food allergies . These often manifest themselves through the skin—especially on the ears, paws, and face.
Typical:
- Itching year-round or seasonally
- Recurrent ear infections
- Licking and nibbling on paws
3. Parasites (e.g. fleas, mites)
Constant itching can also be caused by external parasites that you sometimes don't even see right away.
Typical:
- Restless behavior, especially when flea infested
- Small bites or hair loss
- Itching all over the body
4. Stress or boredom
Psychological causes can also lead to licking or scratching behavior—similar to nail biting in humans. Dogs use this method to relieve stress.
Typical:
- Increased licking in new situations
- Need to chew or restlessness when separated
- No physical abnormalities
When should you go to the vet?
You shouldn’t wait too long if:
- the behavior lasts for several days
- the skin becomes red, oozes or bleeds
- your dog sleeps badly or constantly scratches
- you notice any smell or discharge from your ears
The veterinarian can find the exact cause through skin or ear swabs, allergy tests, or food changes.
What can you do yourself?
First aid at home:
- Check and clean ears regularly (only with suitable products from the vet!)
- Wipe paws after walks , especially if allergic to pollen
- Try a high-quality, hypoallergenic food (after consultation)
- Don’t forget parasite prophylaxis (even in winter)
Against boredom & stress:
- Keep your dog mentally and physically occupied – for example, with search games or tricks.
- Create places of retreat and established routines.
- Check whether changes in your daily life are causing stress (e.g. moving, new pet, baby).
Recurring scratching and licking is not a "tick" but a problem
If your dog is constantly scratching his ears, licking his paws, and acting restless, he's telling you, "Something's wrong!" Whether it's allergies, parasites, inflammation, or psychological stress—there are many causes, but also many solutions. The sooner you react, the sooner you can help your dog feel better again.
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not replace veterinary advice. If you have any health concerns or uncertainties, please consult a qualified veterinarian.
FAQ Questions & Answers
1. Why does my dog constantly scratch his ear?
Frequent ear scratching can have many causes—from harmless dirt to ear infections, mite infestations, or allergies. Especially in cases of recurring scratching, a veterinary examination is important to rule out foreign bodies, yeast, or parasites, for example.
2. What does it mean if my dog constantly licks his paws?
Paw licking can be a sign of skin irritation, itching, allergies (e.g., to food or pollen), or even stress. Even minor injuries or foreign objects between the pads can be triggers. If the behavior persists over a longer period of time, a veterinarian should investigate the cause.
3. My dog is restless and scratching – could this be an allergy?
Restlessness, constant scratching, or licking can indicate an allergic reaction, such as food allergies, environmental allergies (e.g., grass, house dust), or flea saliva allergies. Allergies are among the most common chronic skin problems in dogs. A veterinary examination helps identify specific triggers.
4. Can parasites such as mites or fleas cause such symptoms?
Yes, parasites are a common cause of itching, scratching, and restlessness. Ear mites, grass mites, and fleas, in particular, can cause severe skin irritation. Visible signs include redness, crusting, or frequent head shaking. Appropriate parasite prevention and a veterinary diagnosis are crucial here.
5. What can I do if my dog scratches or licks himself noticeably often?
Repeated scratching, licking, or restlessness should always be taken seriously. Initial measures include:
- Check for visible changes (redness, swelling, parasites)
- Cleansing care with mild products (without fragrances)
- Observation of possible connections (food, environment, season)
If there is no improvement, a visit to the vet is advisable – only he or she can make an accurate diagnosis and suggest targeted treatment options.
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Source: Martina Hemm July 2025
