Dogs usually curl their paws for harmless reasons: to keep warm while they sleep, to stretch, to grip the ground when running or digging, or simply because it's a comfortable, relaxed position. However, a dog that walks with a paw folded under, standing or stepping on the top of the foot instead of the pads (called knuckling), may have a nerve or spinal problem and should see a vet.
Here are six common reasons why your dog curls their paws, plus when to worry:
To keep warm
When it’s cold, dogs will often curl up and tuck their paws in to keep warm. Paws have little fur on the pads, so they lose heat easily. By tucking their paws close to their body, dogs keep their feet warm and conserve body heat. So next time you see your dog with its paws curled, consider the temperature.
Protecting their pads
Dogs may also lift or curl a paw to protect it from a surface that is uncomfortable, such as hot pavement, sharp gravel or icy, salted sidewalks. If your dog keeps holding up or curling one paw, check it for cuts, splinters, burrs between the toes, or a nail that is broken or overgrown. Overgrown nails can curl around into the pad, which is painful, so regular nail trims matter too.
If you can't find a cause, or your dog is limping or licking the paw a lot, have your vet take a look. In cold weather, we also review winter paw balms for dogs.
For the traction
When you watch your dog run, have you ever noticed how they spread and flex their toes? Gripping the ground with their toes and nails gives dogs better traction and helps them make sharp turns without losing their footing. So the next time you see your dog running, remember that they’re not just doing it for fun – they’re also trying to stay safe on slippery surfaces.
Stretching
When dogs curl their paws and stretch their muscles, it’s often because they’ve been lying down for a while and need to wake up their bodies. Just like humans, dogs sometimes enjoy a good stretch after a nap or a long period of rest. Stretching helps to increase blood flow and flexibility, both of which are important for maintaining a healthy body.
In addition, stretching can also help to relieve muscle pain and stiffness. So, the next time you see your dog curling its paws and stretching its muscles, know that it’s just trying to stay healthy and mobile.
Digging
Dogs curl their paws when they’re trying to dig because it gives them a better grip on the ground. Their toenails are curved, so when they curl their toes around, it helps them keep a firm grip on whatever they’re trying to bury or dig up. If digging has become a problem in your yard, we test whether coffee grounds stop dogs from digging.
It’s similar to the way we use our fingers to grip something when we’re trying to hold onto it. When dogs are digging, they’re using their nails and toes to get a good grip on the ground so they can excavate whatever it is they’re looking for. Curling their paw helps them keep a tight hold on the ground, which allows them to work more effectively and avoid slippage.
So why do dogs love to dig? It could be that they’re looking for something buried underground, or it could be that they just enjoy the act of digging itself. Regardless of the reason, one thing is for sure: Dogs have been digging holes since the dawn of time, and curling their paws is one of the things that helps them do it so well.
To show affection
Dogs have been living alongside humans for thousands of years, and they are known for their loyalty and affection. Some dogs show affection by curling a paw around your arm or leg, or by "pawing" at you for attention.
There are several different ways that dogs can curl their paws to show affection. Some dogs may hold onto your leg, while others may press against you or even wrap around you tightly.
These behaviors are usually signs that your dog feels close to you and wants your attention. Curling a paw over you is one way that a dog can express that. Another happy signal is covered in why dogs smile when you scratch them.
When curled paws are a problem
Curled paws while resting or sleeping are normal. But contact your vet if your dog:
- Walks on the top of a paw or drags their toes, scuffing the nails (knuckling)
- Doesn't flip their paw back to normal right away when you gently turn it over while they're standing
- Seems wobbly, weak or uncoordinated in the back legs
- Is limping, holding a paw up, or seems to be in pain
Knuckling can be caused by problems such as a slipped disc (intervertebral disc disease), degenerative myelopathy or nerve damage. If it comes on suddenly, or your dog also seems in pain or can't walk properly, treat it as urgent and see a vet the same day.
Conclusion
There are a variety of reasons why dogs curl their paws. In most cases, it’s simply a way for them to stay warm, stretch, or get better grip on the ground, and sometimes it's a sign of affection. If your dog curls a paw under while walking, though, or seems to be in pain, it's time for a vet check. So the next time you see your dog doing it, take a moment to appreciate all the things that their paws help them do.
