Canine Nail Problems

Nail problems in canines often can be difficult to identify, hard to treat and slow to heal. Nail problems also can be greatly painful and unbearable for your pet. The solution is to prevent them from occurring in the first place, however, this may not always be possible. Knowledge about different nail problems, patience and advice from your veterinarian are vital to help your canine remain healthy without any nail problems.

  1. Identification

    • The most general identification signs of canine nail problems are too much licking, limping on the affected foot, swelling, pain and discharge coming from near the infected nail. Medical methods that may be used by your veterinarian to confirm a diagnosis include a full physical check up of your canine’s feet, along with laboratory tests such as a CBC (blood count) and a culture and biopsy.

    Causes

    • Nail problems can be caused by a physical injury, such as a torn nail or excessively trimmed nails, or bacterial or fungal infections. Injuries also can occur as a symptom of certain underlying medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes mellitus and congenital deformities.

    Types of Nail Problems

    • There are mainly six types of nail problem found in canines. Onyxis is the most common form of deformed nail, which can occur as a result of unusual walking posture or by exerting immense pressure on the feet. With perionyxis, the skin around the nail becomes swollen and is generally painful and fairly easy to spot because the feet become tender and sensitive to touch. Onychorrhexis results brittle nails that break easily. Onychogryphosis causes nails become peculiarly elongated and distorted. When the infection occurs as a result of a claw fracture, it is known as onychoclasis. Finally, trachyonychia is a rare form of nail problem in canines that makes the nails ridged, thick and deformed.

    Treatment

    • Treatments differ depending on the nature and severity of the nail problem. Nail problems that occur as a result of bacterial or fungal infections are generally treated by administering antibiotics and anti-fungal medications. Treatment for nail infections caused as a result of underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, however, will focus on treating or managing both the disease and the nail problem simultaneously by regulating your dog’s diet and insulin levels, all while giving antibiotics for the nail infection.

    Prevention and Solution

    • The most basic method to prevent nail problems in canines is by keeping their feet well groomed and clean. Regularly trimming of nails and veterinarian check-ups are often helpful in this regard.