Use a bitter spray or cream – Coating your dog's paws with a bitter spray or cream can help deter them from licking and chewing the area. Some people say to use chilli or pepper but you should only use pet-safe products as they won't irritate your dog's eyes or nose.
Apple cider vinegar is a great remedy for stopping dog licking paws. Because of its antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, apple cider vinegar can help soothe the skin and eliminate possible irritants that may be causing the dog to lick.
At the top of the list? Citrus. Most dogs can't stand the taste and smell of oranges, lemons, and grapefruit.
Apple cider vinegar has a lot of uses for not only humans but also pets. If your pet has itchy skin, this concoction of 50/50 water and ACV spray can help relieve your pet's skin allergies or irritation. This home remedy can also be used in a bath format.
For dogs, citrus scents are the enemy. Citrus scents like lemon, lime, oranges, and grapefruit–especially in high concentrations often found in household cleaners or essential oils–can cause irritation to your pup's respiratory tract, so keep any fresh citrus fruits out of your dog's reach. You know–just in case.
Vinegar. Just like citrus, dogs cannot stand the smell of vinegar. It seems that a dog's heightened sense of smell is not keen on acidic smells, vinegar being another very acidic substance. It is worth noting that dogs are more repelled by the smell of vinegar than they are by lemons and oranges.
Gastrointestinal symptoms: The citric and acetic acid in vinegar can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs with sensitive stomachs.
But, how do you stop a dog from licking, biting, and scratching? Some options include: an Elizabethan collar (also known as an E-collar or cone) that stops the dog from chewing at the hot spot.
Apple cider vinegar for dogs is one of the many home remedies that pet parents consider if a dog has fleas, even though it has no medical proof of efficacy. While ingesting a small diluted amount may not be harmful, the acidity is not healthy for all dogs and can lead to gastric complications.
Some dogs lick habitually out of boredom. You can help prevent this type of habit from developing by providing your dog lots of stimulation and exercise throughout the day. Try playing fetch outside or going for a walk or run with your pup.
Stress, anxiety, separation and boredom can all lead to excessive licking.
Vinegar. While this non-toxic household substance is safe for use around your home, your dog won't appreciate it. The strong, acidic smell of vinegar is one most dogs don't like. This dislike includes apple cider vinegar.
Many store-bought dog repellents are made with apple cider vinegar, which you can use to make your own homemade solution for a fraction of the cost. To make a strong solution, mix one cup of white vinegar with two cups apple cider vinegar. Place it in a spray bottle and mist any desired areas, indoors or out.
Eucalyptus oil is used in aromatherapy to treat breathing problems (4). The smell of eucalyptus can be very overwhelming for dogs in both positive and negative ways.
Available in both granules and sprays, Critter Ridder works as a dog repellent because it gives off a smell of black pepper, which canines find offensive.
Your pooch will hate the smell of mothballs, alcohol, cleaning products and nail polish! However, we do not recommend the use of these as a deterrent, as they are toxic and harmful for your pet. Steer clear of these stinky products when your dog is around!
Rubbing alcohol
Alcohol is a very strong, sharp, and unnatural smell. Dogs will not like this smell, so applying ethanol to an area may make them avoid a certain spot. It may also help eliminate any existing urine scent, although it evaporates fast, so it's not a long-term fix.
Once a week, spray your dog's fur with the mixture. Although not scientifically proven to get rid of flea, the acidic taste of the vinegar may repel fleas and other parasites. If your dog dislikes being sprayed, dip a washcloth into the mixture and rub your dog's coat. There is no need to rinse your dog afterward.
To soothe your dog's itchy skin, mix equal parts white vinegar and water and then spray the solution onto your dog's skin. Do not rinse the solution, and let it air dry. Repeat this process as many times as needed to see improvement.
Aside from feeding it to your pup, coconut oil can also benefit your dog's skin and coat when applied topically. Not only can coconut oil make your dog's coat look glossy and polished, but it can also help soothe irritated, itchy skin, Pendergrass says.
To stop dogs from chewing and licking furniture, you can try applying some homemade bitter apple spray to the items. It is a great non-toxic deterrent that will prevent your dog from further chewing or licking. Of course, it is unpleasant for them, but it's also harmless.
In addition to bitter no-chew sprays, other natural deterrents you might try include lemon juice, diluted hot pepper sauce, or vinegar.