Why Nail Infections Should Never Be Ignored
When most people think about their dog’s paws, they focus on keeping them clean and trimmed – but not everyone realises just how vulnerable nails can be to infection. A sore, red or swollen nail might seem minor at first, but if left untreated, it can cause significant pain, limping, and even long-term damage to the paw.
Dog nail infections are more common than many owners realise. They can develop from something as simple as a small crack, a torn nail, or bacteria entering the nail bed. According to the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA), nail and paw health form a vital part of a dog’s overall wellbeing, affecting how they walk, balance, and move.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to identify the signs of an infected dog nail, what causes it, and what treatments can help your pet recover quickly and comfortably.
Understanding Dog Nail Infections
A dog’s nail is made of keratin, a hard protein that protects the sensitive tissue underneath. Beneath each nail lies the quick, which contains blood vessels and nerves. When this area or the surrounding nail bed becomes injured or exposed, bacteria, yeast, or fungi can invade, leading to infection.
Infections can develop in one nail or multiple nails, and they may affect the surface, the nail bed, or even deeper structures like the bone in severe cases.
Prompt care is essential because an untreated nail infection can spread to other parts of the paw, causing lameness or chronic pain.
Common Causes of Nail Infections
Nail infections rarely occur without an underlying trigger. Understanding what causes them can help prevent future problems.
1. Trauma or Injury
The most common cause is trauma – such as snagging a nail on carpet, tearing it while running, or cutting the quick during trimming. Even a small tear can open a pathway for bacteria or fungi.
2. Overgrown Nails
Long nails are more likely to break or catch, especially on hard floors. Over time, this can lead to microtears and inflammation around the nail bed.
3. Poor Nail Care
Infrequent trimming, dirty tools, or trimming too short can all lead to infection. Unclean grooming tools may harbour bacteria that enter small wounds in the nail.
4. Allergies
Dogs with skin allergies, particularly environmental or food-related ones, often lick their paws excessively. Constant moisture from licking creates the perfect environment for bacterial or fungal infections.
5. Fungal or Yeast Infections
Fungi and yeast thrive in warm, damp conditions. Dogs who frequently swim, play in muddy areas, or live in humid climates are at higher risk.
6. Underlying Health Conditions
Certain diseases, such as autoimmune disorders, hormonal imbalances, or metabolic issues, can weaken nail and skin health, making infections more likely.
Recognising the Symptoms of Nail Infections
Knowing what to look for early can make all the difference in treatment success. Some signs are subtle, while others are hard to miss.
1. Swelling and Redness
The skin around the affected nail may appear red, inflamed, or swollen. You might also notice warmth when touching the area.
2. Limping or Favouring One Paw
If your dog starts limping or hesitates to put weight on one paw, it could be due to nail pain or infection.
3. Discharge or Bleeding
Pus, clear fluid, or bleeding near the nail base often indicates infection. A foul odour may also be present if bacteria are involved.
4. Licking or Chewing the Paw
Dogs instinctively try to soothe discomfort by licking or chewing, but this behaviour can worsen the infection.
5. Nail Discolouration
A healthy nail should be consistent in colour. Yellow, brown, or dark streaks can signal fungal growth or inflammation underneath the nail.
6. Cracked or Loose Nails
Infected nails may weaken, making them brittle or prone to detaching. You might notice one nail that looks “different” from the others.
7. Pain or Sensitivity
Your dog might pull their paw away, whimper, or show signs of distress when the nail is touched.
If you observe any of these signs, it’s best to book a veterinary appointment as soon as possible.
How Vets Diagnose Nail Infections
During your visit, your vet will examine the affected paw closely. They may use several diagnostic methods, including:
- Physical Examination: Checking for swelling, redness, and tenderness around the nail.
- Cytology or Culture Test: Swabbing the area to identify whether bacteria, yeast, or fungi are present.
- X-rays: In severe cases, to check whether the infection has spread to the bone.
- Blood Tests: To rule out underlying health conditions that might contribute to recurring infections.
An accurate diagnosis ensures your dog receives the most effective treatment for their specific type of infection.
Treatment Options for Infected Dog Nails
Treatment depends on the severity and cause of the infection. Most dogs respond well to a combination of veterinary care and at-home management.
1. Cleaning and Disinfection
Your vet may begin by gently trimming the affected nail and cleaning the area with an antiseptic solution. You might be advised to continue daily cleaning at home using a vet-approved antiseptic or warm saline solution.
2. Antibiotics or Antifungal Medication
If bacteria or fungi are present, your vet will prescribe medication. This can come in the form of topical creams, oral tablets, or medicated soaks.
3. Pain Relief and Anti-Inflammatories
Pain management is important for your dog’s comfort. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often prescribed to reduce pain and swelling.
4. Bandaging or Paw Protection
In some cases, your vet may recommend keeping the paw covered to protect the area from dirt and prevent licking. Change the bandage daily and ensure the paw stays dry.
5. Nail Removal
In severe infections where the nail is detached or the surrounding tissue is badly damaged, partial or full removal of the affected nail may be necessary. Don’t worry – nails usually grow back over time once the infection has healed.
6. Follow-Up Care
Regular rechecks help ensure the infection has completely cleared and that new nail growth is healthy.
For dogs with chronic or recurring infections, your vet may suggest a review of diet, supplements, or lifestyle factors to improve overall nail and skin health.
At-Home Care Tips During Recovery
After veterinary treatment, ongoing care at home is essential for recovery and preventing reinfection.
Keep Paws Clean and Dry
Moisture is the enemy of healing. Wipe your dog’s paws after walks and avoid muddy or wet areas until the infection clears.
Trim Regularly but Carefully
Once healing begins, keep nails trimmed to prevent further damage. If you’re unsure how to trim safely, our guide Dog Nail Anatomy Explained: Understanding the Quick and How to Avoid It provides clear, step-by-step trimming advice.
Use an Elizabethan Collar (if needed)
If your dog won’t stop licking or chewing the paw, a cone or protective bootie can prevent further irritation.
Maintain a Balanced Diet
Nutrition plays a huge role in recovery. A diet rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamins promotes nail and skin regeneration.
Monitor for Changes
Check the nail daily for improvement. If swelling or discharge returns, contact your vet right away.
Preventing Future Nail Infections
Prevention is always easier and less painful than treatment. Here’s how to reduce your dog’s risk of future nail issues.
1. Regular Trimming
Short nails are less likely to catch or tear. Aim to trim every 2–4 weeks, depending on your dog’s activity level.
2. Clean Tools
Always disinfect clippers and grinders for dogs after each use to prevent bacteria transfer.
3. Check Paws Often
Inspect your dog’s nails and paw pads weekly for cracks, swelling, or discolouration. Early detection prevents problems from escalating.
4. Keep Paws Dry
After walks, especially during wet weather, dry your dog’s paws thoroughly. Excess moisture creates a breeding ground for infection.
5. Boost Nutrition
A balanced diet does more than keep your dog’s coat shiny. It also strengthens their nails from within. Make sure their food includes quality protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals to support strong, healthy nail growth.
6. Manage Allergies
If your dog has a history of paw licking, speak with your vet about allergy testing or medication. Controlling itching helps prevent infection recurrence.
FAQs About Dog Nail Infections
How long does it take for a nail infection to heal?
Mild infections can improve within a week of treatment, while more severe cases may take several weeks to fully recover.
Can I treat an infected nail at home?
Minor issues can be cleaned with antiseptic, but any swelling, pus, or bleeding needs veterinary attention.
Do infected nails fall off?
Sometimes. Severely damaged nails may detach naturally as new growth replaces the old one.
Are some breeds more prone to nail infections?
Yes. Breeds with long hair around their paws or fast-growing nails, such as Cocker Spaniels and Labradors, may be more susceptible.
Can nail infections come back?
Yes. If the underlying cause isn’t addressed – such as allergies, diet, or overgrown nails – infections can recur.
Conclusion: Healthy Nails, Happy Paws
Your dog relies on their paws for everything: running, jumping, and exploring the world. That’s why caring for their nails is such an important part of keeping them healthy.
By learning to recognise the early signs of infection, you can act quickly and prevent a small problem from turning into something serious. With good hygiene, regular trimming, and the right nutrition, most nail infections can be prevented altogether.
If you ever notice pain, swelling, or discolouration, don’t wait – a quick vet visit can make all the difference. With the right care and attention, your dog will be back on their feet – quite literally – in no time.
Because every healthy step starts with happy, comfortable paws.