My dog broke his nail and the quick is showing. What should I do?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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  Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on September 6th, 2017

  I am sorry to hear about Sasha! Split toenails can sometimes be quite painful if the split affects the quick. If the split is affecting the quick, oftentimes we need to trim the nail back so it is no longer pulling/applying pressure to the quick. We may need to put the dog on pain medication and antibiotics if the quick is exposed as well, depending on the severity. This is usually quite a painful procedure and can be very difficult for an owner to do at home if they aren't experienced in trimming toenails. If your dog isn't painful you can try trimming the nail back as far as possible without cutting into the quick. In some instances we need to trim off any loose portions but you won't be able to do this at home without help to stop the bleeding. If your dog is licking the foot using an e-collar to prevent this can help decrease inflammation and chance of infection until the vet can check out his toenail. It isn't life threatening in any manner, but if your dog cannot get comfortable/relax for the night, some owners may decide to take their dogs to an emergency vet to get the nail taken care of if their dog seems to be in severe pain.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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  Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

  Veterinarian

  Published on January 30th, 2020

  If you attempt to cut this it will bleed badly snd cause a lot of pain. I would advise going to a vet and they will be able to pull the black shell of the nail out (not as bad as it sounds, the nail comes away easy with a good tug) then a bandage can be apllied to provide support for 24 hours.

  

  2Pet Parents found this answer helpful