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Why is my dog constantly biting his itchy paw and losing a nail?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Doberman Pinscher | Male

Hello, Our 3 years old pincher started to have an issue on the paw about 3 months ago, biting himself constantly probably because itching. We saw different vet and tried creams, antibiotics, anyimicotics and a collar that prevents him to lick the paw. Nothing has worked and we are really desperate as he now lost one of the nails. Nobody seems to be able to figure out what he has and the situation gets worse every day.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Sarah Derksen, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 30th, 2019

Hi. I would be concerned about underlying allergies, or an autoimmune condition. I would first start with a full 3 weeks of antibiotics and antiinflammtories through your veterinarian and ecollar. If that doesnt help or ot returns, I would ask for a referral to a dermatologist and a biopsy as well.

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