Why does my dog bite his nails?

Ask A Vet: Why Does My Dog Chew Her Nails And/Or Lick Her Paws? Inhalant allergies, also known as Atopy (like hay fever for humans) are the number one cause of repeated paw licking, nail biting and itching of the skin, especially the feet and toes. Dogs then lick the feet and bite their nails because of the itching. read more

Symmetrical lupoid onychodystrophy, known as SLO, will have your pup biting at his nails feverishly. In the case of SLO, your pup's immune system has had enough of his nails and launches a full attack against him. The nails lift up from the quick, or break at the base, and eventually fall off. read more

Some dog owners take grooming for granted. Keeping your dog's nails trimmed neatly is important. When you let your dog's nails grow too long it can become painful for them to walk. The nails can curve in, making getting around difficult and injuring the skin. Your dog may be biting his nails chronically in an attempt to groom himself. read more

Breaking habits works much better if we can catch the dog before he starts. Look for a "tell" - something that let's you know he is about to chew his nails. As soon as you see the "tell", talk to your dog, toss a ball, give a treat, take for a walk, give him a toy etc.. anything to get his mind off of chewing his nails. Stay calm when doing this. read more