Our Rat Terrier, Stella Luna, will lick her paws constantly until I take her to the groomer and have her nails trimmed. They grow so fast that it's a 3 week fix only, then back to the groomer. Also, if she is upset about anything she will lick her paws nonstop until I sit on the sofa, ask her to sit in my lap, then pet her until her mind is on something else. She was 5 years old when we bought her from a breeder who did not want her anymore as she was not able to have more pups, not housebroken, didn't appear to understand anything we 'talked' to her about and displayed a starving urchin personality. Now, almost 2 years later her personality has blossomed and she is a joy - with exception of the licking paw syndrome! Just don't give up on any baby with problems as we are not able to walk in their 'shoes'! Shortie