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My dog is 9 years old, shih tzu. She has seasonal allergies so we are used to her itching year round, sometimes more than less. She was recently diagnosed with arthritis. I’m not sure if this is the cause but she is compulsively licking, biting and scratching at her paws and all over her body. It’s so much every day that even if I stop her , she has to go right back at it. I’ve seen her scratch throughout her life but never lick her paws constantly and bite all around her body. What can it be?

My dog is 9 years old, shih tzu. She has seasonal allergies so we are used to her itching year round, sometimes more than less. She was recently diagnosed with arthritis. I’m not sure if this is the cause but she is compulsively licking, biting and scratching at her paws and all over her body. It’s so much every day that even if I stop her , she has to go right back at it. I’ve seen her scratch throughout her life but never lick her paws constantly and bite all around her body. What can it be?

Updated On November 20th, 2019

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 12 lbs

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

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Allergies can be worse over time, so it could be Bella's allergies causing this behavior. Pain can also cause this behavior. I'm wondering if she is on pain medication for her arthritis. If not, I would get some pain medication from the vet for her. Please do not give her any human pain medication, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given.

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