10 Common Nail Issues in Dogs

Inspecting your dog’s nails for signs of problems regularly is essential. Overgrowth, splitting, cracking, and bleeding are prevalent nail issues in canine pets.

Also, check for discomfort, limping, or reluctance to walk and ensure nails aren’t too long, as this can lead to pain or injury. Contact your vet if you notice any nail abnormalities or pain affecting your dog’s mobility and overall health.

At the same time, consider being equipped with the best pet insurance so your dog has basic medical cover during accidental injuries, unanticipated health conditions, and medical emergencies.

If you haven’t bought a policy already, you should contemplate purchasing one, as pet insurance cost can be much less than vet bills you may have to deal with during non-routine vet visits.

In the meantime, read this article to learn about common nail issues seen in dogs.

Watch out for these dog nail issues

Nail problems are common in dogs and can lead to more serious health issues if left untreated. There are a number of common nail issues in dogs, including:

  1. Nails that become too long can curl back into the paw pad, leading to pain, infection, and difficulty walking.
  2. Nails can split or crack, causing pain and potential bleeding. This can occur due to trauma or brittle nails.
  3. Nails that grow into the paw pad can cause infection and severe discomfort. Ingrown nails are often painful and require prompt attention.
  4. Accidents or trauma can cause nails to break or fracture, exposing sensitive tissue and leading to bleeding and pain.
  5. Nail beds can become infected, leading to redness, swelling, discharge, and discomfort.
  6. Fungal or bacterial infections can affect the nails, causing discoloration, brittleness, and foul odor.
  7. Tumors can develop in or around the nail bed, leading to swelling, pain, and changes in nail appearance. If you suspect a tumor, take your pet for a vet inspection as soon as possible.
  8. Injuries to the paw pad can indirectly affect the nails, causing pain and changes in gait.
  9. Dogs may excessively chew or lick their nails due to anxiety, boredom, or allergies, leading to further problems.
  10. Cysts, warts, or other abnormal growths can impact nail health and cause discomfort.

Regular nail maintenance, including trimming, can help prevent many of the above issues. However, it’s essential to watch for signs of discomfort or changes in behavior, like limping, favoring one paw while standing/moving, excessive licking, or difficulty/reluctance to walk.

If you notice anything strange about your dog’s nails (color/shape) or behavior, scheduling a vet’s appointment is advisable. They can provide proper diagnosis, treatment, and guidance to ensure your dog’s nail health and overall well-being.

Early medical intervention can help ease your pet’s suffering, prevent the issue from progressing to an advanced stage, and trigger other physical health problems. With the best pet insurance, a puppy can have comprehensive health coverage with minor financial implications, so consider being prepared with a policy.

Pet insurance cost can be more bearable than hefty vet bills you may have to cover during unexpected illnesses and medical emergencies. Isn’t this reason enough to contemplate purchasing a policy?