Ninjouzata said:
+1 on op
If you buy a basket muzzle, she can also have a drink when it gets hot.
Try to relax, else these vibes will just travel down the lead, if she can feel you are worried, she will therefore take it that you are telling her walks are an anxious time and to be wary of everything. Plus she will be 'protecting' you.
IF loose dogs come up to her, it is totally not your problem, the owners should have a decent recall on their pets to warrant the freedom.
To not exercise her because of this, is totally not fair to her and she could start repetitive behavioural issues such as paw licking and making sores etc.
Have you considered contacting a behaviourist?
Can you explain more about the paw licking? My dog does it so now I'm concerned, I thought he was just cleaning his paws.
Diamond, I wish you luck on resolving this issue~
Some dogs can do this as a boredom breaker, how long has your dog been doing this?
Could be due to a number of things if only recent behaviour - such as grass seed or other foreign body, harvest mites, interdigital cyst - I could go on...... OR if more of a chronic behaviour - boredom.
There are a number of things you can try to resolve this, however I do recommend you get it checked out by a vet first so they can determine the route of the cause. (I don't want to make suggestions to prevent if something has worked it's way into the paw, or if there is a cut or lump visible that needs veterinary attention.)
Can you see any obvious irritation either between the digits, or on the underside of the foot between the pads and webbing? Has the dog made it sore? Does he/she resent it being handled (please don't push this issue if your pet is unpredictable)
There is a bitter spray which can be used in such cases providing no medical reason why pet is doing this in the first place.
The other option is distraction - whenever you see your pet about to start this 'behaviour' distract with a toy to initiate play, encourage them to turn their attention to a raw hide chew or kong stuffed with something tasty.
I would strongly recommend a vet visit before any of my info is carried out, as its hard to advise over the Internet having not seen the pets behaviour. If the behaviour does continue, they could cause what is known as a lick granuloma where the skin becomes thickened and just constantly feels sore and irritated.
Good luck.
