Dogs lick their paws as part of self-grooming routines, however excessive licking could be a red flag. While paw licking is a common behaviour, some additional reasons your dog is licking their paw include anxiety, stress, obsessive behaviour, flea allergies or boredom.

We speak to the experts to find out everything you need to know, including what paw licking means and how you can stop your dog from doing it. Take a look at what you need to know...

"Licking comes naturally to dogs. It's an important way of grooming, showing emotion and communicating," a health expert at the Kennel Club tells Country Living. "Licking is soothing to dogs and causes them to release dopamine and endorphins that can help make them feel better if they're feeling stressed or under the weather."

"Dogs usually lick their paws to clean themselves, but it can also be a sign that something is wrong," the Kennel Club add. "If your dog has suddenly begun licking themselves a lot then you may want to talk to your vet and get them checked out. Repeatedly licking their paws can be a sign that they are stressed or anxious, or could suggest that they are in pain, feeling nauseous, uncomfortable or itchy."