Noah Sinclair
If your dog's nails are turning black, there could be a number of causes for concern. While many dogs have naturally black nails, changes in colour can indicate fungal, bacterial, or protozoal infections, allergies, or even an autoimmune disease. In some cases, black nails can be caused by tumours or damage that allows dirt and debris to collect under the nail.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause for concern | Yes, especially if the dog's nails are usually white |
| Indication | Fungal, bacterial or protozoal infection, allergies, autoimmune disease, or tumours |
| Reason | Injury or trauma that allows the pathogen to infect the tissue around the nail or the keratin itself |
| Examples of injury or trauma | Digging excessively, running on hard ground such as asphalt, or clipping nails too often |
| Treatment | Surgery may be necessary in severe cases |
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Fungal infections
While some dogs have naturally black nails, a change in colour can indicate a fungal infection. This is usually a cause for concern, especially if your dog has white nails that are turning black. Fungal infections are often the result of an injury or trauma, such as a broken nail, that allows the pathogen to infect the tissue around the nail or the keratin itself. This could also be caused by your dog digging excessively or running on hard ground.
If you notice any abnormalities in your dog's nails, such as a change in colour, looseness, sensitivity, or irregular surfaces, it is important to have them examined by a veterinarian. They will be able to assess for any underlying infections or abnormalities and provide appropriate treatment.
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Allergies
While many dogs have naturally black nails, if you notice a dog's toenails turning black, it could be a cause for concern. Toenails turning black can be caused by a number of factors, including injury, allergies, fungal infections, bacterial infections, protozoal infections, and autoimmune diseases.
Injury is the most common cause of a dog's nails turning black. Bruising under the nail will turn the colour darker. Initially, it will turn red from dark blood forming inside the nail. As the haemoglobin breaks down into methemoglobin and hemichrome, the nails change colour from red to black. Most bacterial and fungal infections that cause nails to turn red, brown, or black start with an injury or trauma that allows the pathogen to infect the tissue around the nail or the keratin itself. This could happen from dogs digging excessively, running on hard ground such as asphalt, or even because of pet parents clipping nails too often.
If you notice your dog's nails turning black, it is important to pay attention to other symptoms that may be present. For example, if the nails appear loose, sensitive, have black gunk near the bases, or have irregular surfaces, it is recommended to have them examined by a veterinarian. The veterinarian can assess the nails for any abnormalities or infections and provide appropriate treatment.
It is also important to consider the dog's age and breed when evaluating nail discolouration. As dogs age, their nails naturally turn black. Additionally, some breeds, such as Rottweilers, Great Danes, and Dobermans, naturally have black nails.
In summary, while black nails are common in many dogs, a change in nail colour can indicate underlying health issues. If you notice your dog's nails turning black, it is important to monitor for other symptoms and consult a veterinarian to ensure your dog receives proper care and treatment.
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Autoimmune disease
While many dogs have naturally black nails, if you notice a white nail turning black, it could be a cause for concern. Changes in nail colour can indicate fungal, bacterial, or protozoal infections, allergies, or even an autoimmune disease. In some cases, it can be caused by tumours or damage that allows dirt and debris to collect under the nail. This damage could be caused by your dog digging excessively, running on hard ground, or even clipping their nails too often.
There are many different types of autoimmune diseases that can affect dogs, including immune-mediated polyarthritis, immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia, and autoimmune thyroid disease. These diseases can cause a range of symptoms, including joint pain, fatigue, weight loss, and changes in nail colour.
If you suspect your dog may have an autoimmune disease, it is important to consult your veterinarian. They can perform a variety of tests, including blood tests, urine tests, and biopsies, to help diagnose the specific autoimmune disease your dog may be suffering from. Treatment options may include medications to suppress the immune system, such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants, as well as supportive care to manage symptoms and improve your dog's quality of life.
It is important to note that nail colour changes can also be caused by other, less serious conditions, such as fungal or bacterial infections. However, it is always best to consult your veterinarian to rule out any more serious underlying causes and ensure your dog receives the appropriate treatment.
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Bacterial infections
While many dogs have naturally black nails, a change in colour can indicate a bacterial infection. This is usually caused by an injury or trauma, such as a broken nail, that allows bacteria to infect the tissue around the nail or the keratin itself. This could also happen from dogs digging excessively, running on hard ground, or even because of owners clipping nails too often.
If you notice any of the following, it is worth having your dog's nails examined by a vet:
- Loose nails
- Sensitive nails
- Black gunk near the base of the nails
- Irregular surfaces (not smooth)
In addition to bacterial infections, a change in nail colour can also indicate fungal infections, allergies, or even an autoimmune disease.
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Tumours
While many dogs have naturally black nails, if you notice a dog's nails turning black when they are usually white, it could be a cause for concern. Changes in nail colour can indicate fungal, bacterial or protozoal infections, allergies or even an autoimmune disease. Tumours can also cause nails to turn black, and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Tumours can cause damage that allows dirt and debris to collect under the nail. Most bacterial and fungal infections that cause nails to turn black start with an injury or trauma that allows the pathogen to infect the tissue around the nail or the keratin itself. This could happen from dogs digging excessively, running on hard ground such as asphalt, or even because of pet parents clipping nails too often.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several reasons why a dog's toenails might turn black. It could be a natural part of the ageing process, or it could be a result of injury, infection, or trauma. Some breeds, such as Rottweilers, Great Danes, and Dobermans, have naturally black nails.
Bruising under the nail will turn the colour darker. Initially, it will turn red from dark blood forming inside the nail. As the haemoglobin breaks down, the nails change colour from red to black.
Bacterial, fungal, and protozoal infections can all cause a dog's nails to turn black. These infections usually start with an injury or trauma that allows the pathogen to infect the tissue around the nail or the keratin itself.
If your dog's nails have turned black, it is important to pay attention to any other changes. If the nails appear loose, sensitive, have black gunk near the bases, or have irregular surfaces, it is best to have them examined by a vet who can quickly assess them for any abnormalities or infections.
