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My dog's nail is bent sideways and painful. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Female | spayed

My dogs nail has bent sideways (thumb nail) but it's not giving her any grief until I go to touch it I was wondering what to do about it?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 17th, 2016

I would recommend doing a light bandage wrap of the area using cast padding and an elastic bandage for now. Then in the morning have a professional take a look at it. They will have to cut the nail pretty much all the way down to where it is bent, this will cause some bleeding and mild-moderate temporary discomfort, which they can then apply the appropriate anti-coagulant, typically Quik-stop, to the area and wrap it for a couple of days until the area is no longer painful.. If there is significant swelling of the nail base then they may prescribe anti-inflammatories.

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16Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It got bent and probably partially broken - that is why it is painful to the touch. As it is probably still very well attached to the finger, I would advise bringing her to the vet in order to get it removed under sedation, otherwise it is going to be very painful.

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    12Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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