Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Can I Put Socks on My Dog to Stop Scratching? Vet Approved Facts & Tips

Written by: Elizabeth Gray

Last Updated on June 26, 2024 by Dogster Team

dog-wearing-socks

Can I Put Socks on My Dog to Stop Scratching? Vet Approved Facts & Tips

VET APPROVED

Dr. Alice Athow-Frost Photo

REVIEWED & FACT-CHECKED BY

Dr. Alice Athow-Frost

BVM BVS MRCVS (Veterinarian)

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Learn more »

Dogs scratch themselves for multiple reasons, whether medical or behavioral or just the odd itch. Occasional scratching is normal but if your dog is obsessively digging at their skin, they could cause a lot of damage. One possible remedy is putting socks on your dog to stop scratching, but it is a temporary solution.

In this article, we’ll discuss why you can put socks on your dog to stop scratching, how to do it safely, and why you shouldn’t rely on this method long-term. We’ll also cover common reasons your dog might be scratching and what to do about it.

dogster face divider

Using Socks on Your Dog to Stop Scratching

Socks can be useful to prevent chewing or licking the paws and to soften the impact of scratching on the skin. Covering the claws with socks can cushion the impact and prevent further skin damage for dogs who constantly use their claws to scratch their bellies or other areas.

Placing socks on your dog’s paws also prevents access if your pet frequently licks or chews at their feet. Socks generally won’t stay on by themselves, so you’ll also need skin-safe bandage tape. You can tape the socks in place, but make sure they’re not too tight.

Monitor your dog’s feet frequently to ensure they aren’t getting cold or swollen. Never let the socks get wet while your dog is wearing them, and change them right away if they do. Although socks can be helpful, they don’t stop the itching.

Dog wears socks
Image Credit: Mariia Vorona, Shutterstock

What Are Some Other Methods to Stop Your Dog from Scratching?

In addition to putting socks on your dog, here are other methods to stop your dog from scratching.

E-Collar

The classic “cone of shame” prevents dogs from scratching their ears, faces, or eyes. It can also prevent your dog from chewing or licking other itchy spots on their body.

Your vet may suggest your dog wear an E-collar during treatment for various skin conditions.

a beagle wearing an elizabeth collar at home
Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock

Pants

If your dog is scratching or chewing at their hind legs, you can try placing a pair of kids’ sweatpants or other drawstring pants on them. You’ll need to make a hole for their tail to poke through.

This method is trickier than most because you’ll need to take the pants off for your dog to poop or pee.

T-Shirt

If your dog is scratching or chewing somewhere on their chest, back, or abdomen, you can try placing a T-shirt or baby onesie on them to cover the area.

You may need to tie the T-shirt in a knot that sits on your dog’s back to keep it in place. You’ll usually still need to monitor your dog or use other methods to prevent scratching.

french bulldog in T-shirt walking by park
Image Credit: Borodin Alexey, Shutterstock

dogster paw divider

Why Is My Dog Scratching?

As we mentioned, socks and other methods to stop scratching are usually temporary help at best. Long-term, you need to find out why your dog is itchy and deal with the problem at the source. Generally, dogs scratch for either medical or behavioral reasons.

Behavioral Causes for Scratching

Dogs can develop compulsive scratching, licking, or chewing behaviors due to stress, anxiety, or boredom. You’ll need to rule out the medical causes for these actions before dealing with the behavioral reasons.

Your vet can prescribe medications to treat your dog’s anxiety. Bored dogs may need more exercise, attention, and positive outlets for their energy. You can also ensure your pup has chew toys and other objects to gnaw on instead of their skin.

dog scratching
Image Credit: schubbel, Shutterstock

Medical Causes for Scratching

Here are some of the most common medical causes for your dog scratching:
  • Parasites
  • Allergies
  • Infection
  • Pain
  • Hormone issues
  • Dry skin

Diagnosing the exact cause of itching can be complicated. Your vet may use diagnostic tools such as flea combing, skin scraping, skin cytology, allergy testing, or even a food trial with a hypoallergenic diet.

Some causes of itchy skin are easily resolved with short-term treatment, while others may require lifelong care.

dogster face divider

Conclusion

Putting socks on your dog can be a quick, inexpensive solution to stop them from scratching. It can also protect your pet’s paws if they lick and chew them frequently.

However, socks and other anti-scratch remedies should only be viewed as temporary solutions while you get a full picture of what’s going on and diagnose and treat the underlying cause of the itching. You should make an appointment with your veterinarian to find out why your dog can’t stop scratching.


Featured Image Credit: Tracy Hirai, Shutterstock

PangoVet Image Speak With A Vet Online

Get Dogster in your inbox!

Stay informed! Get tips and exclusive deals.
Dogster Editors Choice Badge
Shopping Cart

Pangolia

© Pangolia Pte. Ltd. All rights reserved.