Nail Bed Infection in Dogs

According to the Pet Cancer Center, the nail bed contains nerves, blood vessels and melanin-producing cells known as melanocytes. Unfortunately, the canine nail bed can become infected due to fungal and bacterial infections.

  1. Causes

    • A dog's nail bed can become infected for a plethora of reasons including internal health issues or environmental factors. Issues, such as cutting the nails too short, allergies, immune-mediated diseases and contact with contagious bacteria or fungi during outdoor activities can cause an infection.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms of a nail bed infection vary from dog to dog and can include pain in the affected paws, visible deformities of the affected nails such as an abnormal nail color, pus, blood, lameness or difficulty walking and unusual or excessive licking of the affected paws.

    Treatment

    • Depending on the severity and type of infection present, some dogs may only require oral or topical antibiotics. Meanwhile, others may require surgical removal of the nail in severe cases.