Dog Nail Diseases
Dogs rarely get nail diseases or disorders. In fact, probably the most stressful thing that happens to your dog's nails on a regular basis is when you pin him down so that you can trim them. However, it is important to be aware of different dog nail diseases so that you can spot them when they occur and help keep your canine companion healthy, happy and running on all four feet.
-
Function
-
Dog nail diseases, like human ones, are almost always a product of fungal infections. Fungi like to live under human fingernails and toenails because there is a moist, dark space there. Since dogs do not have the same protected area under each nail, nail disease and infection is much less common in this species. However, sometimes nail conditions do develop if the dog's nails get broken or fractured.
Significance
-
Generally, dog nail diseases indicate a problem with the state of the feet themselves. If the nails are broken or fractured, this is usually a result of the dog's feet being exposed to unusually harsh environments or of the nails not being trimmed regularly. While you are getting treatment for your dog's nail condition, talk to the veterinarian about things you can do to prevent the problem from recurring.
-
Time Frame
-
Once your dog develops a nail infection, it will usually take at least a week for you to notice. This is because most nail infections do not become painful immediately. If the infection is not a result of another injury, such as a broken or fractured nail, it can be weeks before you notice the disease. Unfortunately, nail diseases often take some time to treat: months in many cases. Sometimes you will even have to wait for the nails to fall off and regrow completely before the healing process is complete.
Types
-
There are six types of nail diseases found in dogs. Onyxis is any type of deformed nail. It can be a result of unusual walking habits, strange pressures on the foot or genetic. Perionyxis is when the skin around the nail becomes inflamed. It is generally painful and will be fairly easy to spot because the foot will be tender and hot to the touch. Onychorrhexis causes nails to become brittle and break easily. Onychogryphosis causes nails to become particularly elongated and distorts the appearance of the claw. When the claw fractures and infection ensues, it is called Onychoclasis. Finally, Trachyonychia is common in humans but very uncommon in dogs. It makes the nails ridged and can cause them to be thick and deformed.
Effects
-
Depending on the type of disease, your dog may feel few effects or a lot of them as a result of a nail disease. Infections that result in inflammation or that lead to circumstances that invite more infections, such as broken or fractured claws, usually become painful and need to be treated. However, other types that simply alter the look of the nail may exist "under the radar" forever.
Prevention/Solution
-
The best way to prevent nail disease in your dog is to keep its feet groomed and clean. If you are not comfortable cutting its nails, let a professional groomer handle it. This will ensure that its feet are in top condition and that the nails are examined regularly.
-
