How can I tell if my dog's heatstroke is serious
Let’s be real: It’s a sticky August morning in Los Angeles, and you took your 2-year-old Golden Retriever, Max, for a walk a little later than usual
What do unhealthy dog nails look like?
You might not think twice about your dog’s nails until you hear them clicking loudly on hardwood floors or notice them limping after a walk.
You might not think twice about your dog’s nails until you hear them clicking loudly on hardwood floors or notice them limping after a walk. But those small, often-overlooked parts of their body can tell you a lot about their health—unhealthy nails show clear signs that shouldn’t be ignored. For example, nails that are discolored, turning yellow, brown, or even black (when they’re not naturally that shade) can signal infections or even underlying issues like fungal growth.
Length is another big clue. If your dog’s nails curl under and start digging into their paw pads, that’s a red flag. Overgrown nails don’t just hurt—they can change how your dog stands and walks, leading to joint pain or even long-term damage to their legs. In some areas with strict pet welfare laws, allowing nails to get this long could be seen as neglect, since it harms your dog’s quality of life. Most vets or groomers recommend trimming nails every 2-4 weeks, but it’s easy to put off until you see obvious problems.
Cracks, splits, or peeling in the nail are also signs of trouble. You might spot this when brushing your dog or after they’ve been playing outside—dry, brittle nails often break easily, leaving painful exposed quicks. Puppies with soft nails or senior dogs with weaker nail beds are more prone to this, but even adult dogs can develop it if they don’t get enough moisture or the right nutrients. Some owners use pet-safe nail conditioners, but regular trims and avoiding rough surfaces (like concrete) can help prevent these issues.
Swelling or redness around the nail bed is hard to miss and usually means discomfort. Your dog might lick their paw constantly, pull away when you touch their feet, or even refuse to walk. This could be from an ingrown nail, a bacterial infection, or a foreign object stuck under the nail—all things that need vet attention fast. In places where public spaces require dogs to be well-groomed, a painful, infected nail could also mean you can’t take your dog to parks or trails until it’s treated.
Keeping an eye on your dog’s nails isn’t just about grooming—it’s about keeping them healthy and compliant with local rules. By checking their paws weekly, learning to trim nails safely (or visiting a pro if you’re nervous), and watching for early signs of trouble, you can keep your dog’s feet happy. After all, a dog with healthy nails is a dog that can run, play, and explore without pain—something every pet owner wants for their furry companion.
Related Articles
What should I do if my dog has severe heatstroke
You're enjoying a summer afternoon at the park when you notice your dog has stopped panting and appears disoriented - their gums are bright red
What kind of exercise is best for a dog to lose weight
Let’s paint the picture: You’re in your Denver apartment, watching your 4-year-old Boston Terrier, Ruby, plop down mid-play session with her favorite toy
Does walking shorten a dog's nails?
Many dog owners notice their pets nails seem shorter after regular walks,but how much does this daily activity actually help?The answer depends on where you walk—concrete sidewalks or asphalt streets gently file nails as a dog's paws hit the ground
What happens if you don't express a dog's glands?
Most dog owners notice their pup scooting across the carpet at some point, but few connect it to impacted anal glands. These small sacs near a dog’s rectum secrete a scent for marking territory
How often do a dog's teeth need to be cleaned?
Most vets agree that regular dog teeth cleaning is key to avoiding painful dental issues later. For healthy adult dogs, a professional cleaning at the vet’s office every 12 to 18 months usually works well.