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Why is my schnauzer licking his paw and a long nail? What to do?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Schnauzer | Male | neutered | 8 years and 7 months old | 20 lbs

Our schnauzer has bad nails that seem to splinter break and twist off. We've been to the vet over a half a dozen times in the last 12 months. Our last visit due to a bad back nail the vet conceded that the last trim two weeks prior the nails were not properly trimmed and promised he had trimmed the nails himself. The back nail is no longer an issue however a front nail seems much too long to us and the dog is licking his paw and at the top of that nail specifically. Help what should we do!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on April 21, 2020

If Russell is licking that one spot obsessively, it means it hurts. It could have an infection of the nailbed, an issue with the bone, or even something sbtuck under the skin. I would recommend taking him back to the vet to evaluate this new issue. Until then, do your best to stop his licking, like wearing an e-collar.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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