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How to safely remove human nail polish from my dog's nails myself?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | 2 years and 1 month old | 6 lbs

Hello! I have a chihuahua mix dog. A friend and I took her to get nail polish on her. How can I take it of her myself?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 11th, 2018

Human nail polish remover is toxic to dogs, both from ingestion and the smell. There are nail polish removers for dogs that are supposed to be safer for them, and you can find them online or in a pet store. If you do use a human nail polish remover, remove the polish in a well ventilated area, possibly outside. Put a very small amount on a cotton ball, and remove the polish off the nails of one paw. Keep Mimi's head and nose away from the area, so you may need a friend to hold her head away. Once the polish is off that paw, immediately wash the paw in dog shampoo and warm water before moving into the next paw. Always be sure that if you future nail painting on her nails, only use nail polishes designed for dogs, not for humans. Good luck, I hope this helps!

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