🩺 Dog Nail Infections – Vet‑Led Guide 2025 🐶💅

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Hello, I’m Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc, founder of Ask A Vet. In this detailed 2025 guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about nail infections in dogs—from early symptoms to treatment, recovery, and prevention. Let’s ensure your dog’s paws stay healthy, comfortable, and infection-free. 🐾

📘 What Are Nail Infections in Dogs?

Infections of the nail or nail bed are classified as:

• Paronychia: infection of the skin around the nail, usually bacterial.
• Onychomycosis: fungal infection of the nail itself.

They often result from cracks, trauma, allergies, or immune-related skin conditions—especially when combined with constant licking or chewing. Multiple nails may be affected if an autoimmune cause is involved. 🦠

🚩 Common Signs of Nail Infections

• Swollen, red nail beds
• Pus or crusty discharge
• Nail discoloration (brown, black, yellow)
• Brittle, splitting, or cracked nails
• Licking, chewing, limping, pain when touched
• Bleeding from the base of a nail

More than one paw or nail affected may indicate systemic or immune-mediated disease, like symmetric lupoid onychodystrophy (SLO). ⚠️

🔬 Diagnosing Nail Infections

A complete veterinary workup may include:

1. Physical exam of paws, nails, and skin
2. Cytology or culture: ID bacteria or fungi
3. Fungal DTM culture for onychomycosis
4. X-rays if bone involvement is suspected
5. Nail or skin biopsy if autoimmunity or cancer is suspected

Diagnostic imaging may be necessary in deep infections or those that do not resolve with initial therapy.

💊 Treatment Options

1. Bacterial Infections (Paronychia)

• Topical antibiotics: mupirocin or chlorhexidine-based sprays
• Oral antibiotics: amoxicillin, cephalexin (based on culture)
• Pain relief: NSAIDs like carprofen or meloxicam
• Foot soaks: Epsom salt baths or chlorhexidine dips

2. Fungal Infections (Onychomycosis)

• Oral antifungals: itraconazole, ketoconazole (weeks to months)
• Topical antifungals: miconazole, clotrimazole creams
• Supportive care and repeated trimming of affected nails

3. Autoimmune Nail Disorders

For dogs diagnosed with SLO or other autoimmune nail diseases:

• Tetracycline + niacinamide
• Vitamin E, omega-3s, and biotin
• Immunosuppressive meds: cyclosporine or steroids (rare)
• Regular nail trims and foot soaks

4. Surgical Removal

Severe or neoplastic nail conditions may require partial or full nail removal under anesthesia. Post-op care includes bandaging, antibiotics, and pain management.

🏡 At‑Home Care & Monitoring

1. Clean paws daily, especially after outdoor walks.
2. Apply prescribed topical medications consistently.
3. Trim nails regularly and monitor for splitting.
4. Use a cone or booties to prevent licking/chewing.
5. Switch to soft bedding and avoid rough surfaces.
6. Track improvement and follow up with your vet.

🥗 Nutrition for Nail Health

Ensure your dog’s diet includes:

• Biotin – strengthens nails and skin
• Zinc – essential for immune and skin health
• Omega-3 fatty acids – anti-inflammatory and coat-supportive
• Balanced vitamins A, E, D

🧼 Prevention Tips

• Keep nails trimmed to avoid trauma and splitting
• Inspect feet regularly, especially after muddy walks
• Avoid walking in rough, abrasive terrain if prone to cracking
• Clean between toes and around nails if your dog has allergies
• Use foot balm or boots in cold or hot weather

🐾 Ask A Vet,

Concerned about nail infections or foot pain? Use Ask A Vet to connect with a licensed vet anytime. Get high-quality paw balms,

✨ Final Thoughts

Nail infections might seem small, but they can be painful, persistent, and even systemic. Prompt diagnosis, proper treatment, and thoughtful at-home care make all the difference. If your pup’s paws seem sore or something doesn’t look right—don’t wait. 💬

Book with your vet or visit Ask A Vet for 24/7 answers, peace of mind, and expert support. Let’s get those paws healthy and wagging again. 🐾