Why is my two-week old Boston terrier licking his paws?

Our question this week was:

Dr. Debra – Is it normal for my 2-week old male Boston terrier to lick his paws? Sometimes he licks his genital, is this normal? When he's licking his paws, he sometimes bites/chews on his paw too. Is this normal? I know Boston's sometimes grooms himself, but, biting/chewing, is that normal?

Mary Chanq

Answer

Hi Mary– thanks for your email. You wrote that your 2-week-old male Boston terrier is licking his paws. Are you sure you meant 2-week old? That is very young and I would not expect any particular behaviors at this age other than nursing and sleeping most of the time.

Articles that might be helpful to you are Pruritus (Itchiness) in Dogs (this pertains to older dogs) and Developmental Milestones in the Puppy.

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra

To read most recent questions Click here!

Click here to see the full list of Ask Dr. Debra Questions and Answers!