Just like people, dogs can get nail infections, including nail fungus. These infections aren’t just unsightly; they can be downright painful and cause your dog a lot of discomfort. That’s why it’s important to address them quickly.
This article is designed to give you a complete understanding of nail fungus in dogs: what causes it, what the symptoms look like, how it’s diagnosed, how it’s treated, and, most importantly, how you can prevent it from happening in the first place.
Keep in mind that diagnosing and treating nail infections requires veterinary care. This article is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your vet for any health concerns your dog may have.
What is Nail Fungus in Dogs?
Nail fungus in dogs, also known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that affects your dog’s nails. Think of it like athlete’s foot, but for your pup’s paws. Human fingernail fungus shares some similarities in terms of appearance and treatment.
These fungal infections typically occur when fungi sneak in through little cracks or breaks in the nail. Your dog can pick up the fungus from contact with soil or moldy areas. Gross, right?
Now, it’s worth noting that nail fungus isn’t the only thing that can cause nail problems in dogs. Bacterial infections are also pretty common. Plus, there are other conditions like paronychia (inflammation around the nail) and pododermatitis (inflammation of the paws) that can cause similar symptoms. So, it’s important to get a proper diagnosis from your vet.
Types of Fungal Nail Infections in Dogs
Fungal nail infections can show up in different ways in dogs.
Onychomycosis
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail itself. It can affect just one nail or several, but it’s not as common in dogs as bacterial infections of the nail.
Paronychia
Paronychia is an infection of the skin folds around the nail. It can be caused by bacteria, fungus, or yeast. You’ll probably notice redness, swelling, and pain around the affected nail.
Pododermatitis
Pododermatitis is inflammation of the paws, and it can sometimes be connected to nail infections. It can have a lot of different causes, including allergies and fungal infections.
It can be hard to tell what kind of infection your dog has just by looking at it. If you notice anything that seems off about your dog’s nails or paws, it’s always best to get it checked out by a vet.
What causes nail fungus in dogs?
Nail fungus in dogs can develop for several reasons, but it usually happens when a dog’s nails come into contact with fungi.
Environmental factors
Fungi like to live in damp environments, so walking on contaminated soil or in moldy areas can cause nail fungus. If your dog has cracked nails or injured paws, fungi can enter these areas and cause an infection.
Trauma and injury
If a dog’s nail cracks, breaks, or splinters, fungi can enter the nail bed. Ingrown nails can also increase the risk of infection.
Underlying health conditions
If your dog has allergies, autoimmune disorders, or lupoid onychodystrophy, their immune system may be weakened. That can make them more susceptible to fungal infections.
Take care to protect your dog’s feet and nails. After romping outdoors, inspect your dog’s paws and nails. When you notice an injury or possible infection, take steps to treat it.
Symptoms of Nail Fungus in Dogs
If your dog has nail fungus, you’ll probably notice a few things. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Excessive Licking or Chewing: If your dog is suddenly obsessed with licking or chewing at their paws, it could be because they’re uncomfortable or irritated.
- Nail Discoloration and Brittleness: Healthy dog nails are usually a pinkish color. With a fungal infection, the nail can turn yellowish, brownish, or even black. But black lines on nails can also indicate other issues, so it’s important to seek veterinary advice. It might also become brittle and break easily.
- Swelling and Redness: The skin around the infected nail might get swollen and red.
- Pain and Sensitivity: The affected nail could be painful to the touch. If your dog is limping, that’s a big clue.
- Unusual Odor: Sometimes, there’s a foul odor coming from the infected area.
- Pus or Discharge: In severe cases, you might see pus or discharge around the nail.
Diagnosis of Nail Fungus in Dogs
If you suspect your dog has nail fungus, a vet visit is in order. The vet will examine the affected nail and the tissue around it.
To confirm the diagnosis, the vet will probably take a sample from the nail or the surrounding tissue to test. This might involve:
- Fungal culture: This helps identify the specific type of fungus causing the problem.
- Cytology: This involves examining cells under a microscope.
It’s also important to rule out other possible causes of nail issues. Bacterial infections, injuries, and even autoimmune disorders can mimic nail fungus. Your vet might recommend X-rays or MRIs to rule out other conditions like arthritis that could be affecting the toes.
Treatment Options for Nail Fungus in Dogs
If your vet diagnoses your dog with nail fungus, there are several options for treatment. The best option depends on how severe the fungal infection is.
Topical Antifungal Medications
For some nail fungus infections, you can apply antifungal medications directly to the nail. Some common antifungal ingredients in these medications include ketoconazole and miconazole. Your vet may recommend a specific product or instruct you on how to find one that’s safe and effective for your dog.
Oral Antifungal Medications
If the nail fungus is severe or persistent, your vet may need to prescribe oral antifungal medications. Common medications used for this include itraconazole or fluconazole. As with any medication, be sure to follow your vet’s instructions carefully and watch for any potential side effects.
Nail Removal
In the most severe cases, where the infection is deeply entrenched and other treatments haven’t worked, nail removal might be necessary. This is usually a last resort because it’s more invasive and requires pain management for your dog during recovery.
Other Treatments
Besides topical and oral medications, your vet might also suggest medicated paw soaks using antifungal solutions or antiseptic sprays to help manage the infection and prevent it from spreading. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your dog’s paws can also play a role in preventing future infections.
Prevention of Nail Fungus in Dogs
The best way to deal with nail fungus is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Here’s how you can reduce your dog’s risk:
- Keep things clean: Regularly clean your house, your dog’s crate, and their bedding.
- Practice paw-dicures: Trim your dog’s nails often. After walks, especially wet ones, clean and dry their paws thoroughly.
- Avoid dirty areas: Try not to walk your dog in places with standing water or rotting leaves.
- Feed them a healthy diet: A good diet will strengthen your dog’s immune system, making them less likely to get infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I soak my dog’s paw in Epsom salt?
Epsom salt soaks can help soothe inflammation and potentially draw out infection, but they aren’t a primary treatment for nail fungus. If your vet recommends it, a typical soak is 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times per day. Always follow your vet’s specific instructions.
Does cider vinegar cure nail fungus?
While some people advocate for apple cider vinegar as a home remedy, there’s limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness against nail fungus in dogs. It might have mild antifungal properties, but it’s unlikely to be a complete solution and could irritate the skin. Consult your vet for proven treatments.
How did my dog get nail fungus?
Dogs can contract nail fungus from contact with contaminated surfaces like soil, other animals, or even grooming tools. Damp environments and weakened immune systems can increase the risk of infection.
What medicine can I give my dog for fungal infection?
The best medicine for a fungal infection in your dog will depend on the severity and type of fungus. Your veterinarian may prescribe oral antifungal medications, topical creams or ointments, or a combination of both. Never give your dog medication without consulting a vet first!
Will nail fungus heal on its own?
Unfortunately, nail fungus is unlikely to heal on its own in dogs. Without treatment, the infection can worsen, causing pain, discomfort, and potential spread to other nails. Prompt veterinary care is essential for effective treatment and prevention of complications.
In Summary
Nail fungus is a common problem in dogs, but it’s usually treatable when it’s caught early and treated by a veterinarian.
You can help prevent your dog from getting a fungal infection in their nails by keeping their paws clean and well-groomed. Be sure that your dog’s environment is clean and dry, too, since fungi love to live in moist places.
If you think your dog has a nail infection, take them to the vet. The sooner your dog is diagnosed, the easier it will be to treat the infection.