What Happens If Dogs Nails Get Too Long. One of the preferred methods of dealing with persistent nail bed infections is to remove the nail altogether with dog nail removal surgery under a local anesthetic. This can cause severe pain and require treatment by a veterinarian.

Sore feet can swell, which can lead to a case of arthritis and an unsteady gait that can create hip trouble. As a pet owner, it’s good practice to check that they aren’t growing too long routinely. There are a couple of potential problems with long nails on dogs.

Dog Chewing Nails. An exposed and untreated wound may lead to infection and make your dog itch. Like in humans, airborne allergens often cause intense itchiness.

These behaviors can also be triggered by other allergic reactions, such as those from food allergies. Your dog may be chewing his nails because the nail bed has a fungal infection. If you notice your dog displays this type of behavior, you will have to get veterinary help.