Have you noticed your pup biting its nails and wondered to yourself what that was all about? As you may have guessed, it usually means that something around their paws is bothering them. However, experts warn that it could also be a warning sign of several other conditions. Let’s take a look at some of the possibilities.
It is Time to Have Them Groomed
The first and most simple probability is that your dog just needs his nails trimmed. Just like with people, when our nails get too long, it makes performing daily tasks more difficult. With dogs, when their nails become too long, their paws become uncomfortable as extra pressure is felt on the pad of the foot.
When a dog’s nails become severely overgrown, they can begin to puncture the skin, causing serious pain and even an infection. Keeping your pup’s nails trimmed regularly will help keep him or her healthy and happy. If you see your dog chewing at their nails, trimming them is the first step to take!
They Could Have Allergies
Your dog could be experiencing a skin allergy if they are biting at their nails. This is because allergies can cause itchy skin and redness, which your dog may be attempting to remedy.
Your dog may be allergic to the grass in your yard. They go outside to play or relieve themselves and come inside and bite or chew on their paws for relief. Then, just when you think they are okay, they go outside again and the cycle continues.
If you suspect your dog may be suffering from outdoor or seasonal allergies, talk to your veterinarian about adding Benadryl to their daily routine.
They Might Have a Skin Infection
The space between your dog’s toes is an ideal environment for a skin infection to develop. With your dog licking this area, moisture is added to the mix and the condition only worsens. Then, the area often becomes exposed to dirt and germs from outdoors and the area becomes severely red and irritated. If your dog’s paws look like this, don’t hesitate to visit your vet and get some help for your precious pooch.
They Could Be Feeling Anxious
Though anxiety can rear its head in many different forms, biting and chewing the nails can be a sign of boredom or separation anxiety in your dog, just the same as humans often do. No matter why they might be feeling anxious, it can become a serious problem that needs to be remedied sooner than later.
They Have Fleas and Ticks
Everyone knows how miserable fleas and ticks can make an otherwise happy canine. Even if you think you have gotten rid of most of them on your dog’s coat, fleas and ticks are really good at hiding in crevices, such as between your dog’s toes.
That is why it is a good idea to check for them in these in-between spaces. If you find fleas and ticks in these areas, taking your dog to your vet for proper removal is recommended, as ticks can be tricky to remove completely.
Final Thought
When you see your dog chewing and biting at its nails, it is a sign that something is up. Perhaps all they need is a nail trim, but since it could go deeper than that, you shouldn’t just pass it off as normal behavior.
