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My dog has a torn nail, what can I do for it until I see the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Redbone Coonhound | Male | unneutered | 11 months and 5 days old | 80 lbs

Posted a question about his nail and was asked to post pictures. It hasn’t blead and I can’t afford to take him until Friday and trying to see what I can do to treat it at home.

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 18th, 2018

It definitely appears to be torn at the fleshy part of the nail. These can sometimes be easily removed. You can try this at home if you are comfortable, but should be prepared for a lot of bleeding. Before you attempt that, I recommend you read the article at the link below. "https://undefinedvcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/first-aid-for-broken-nails-in-dogs" It's good to keep it clean and keep it covered for now. You can keep it clean by flushing the foot with cool water for 10 minutes a day. You can also do a footbath with epsom salts for 15 minutes once a day.  I hope that helps and Blue gets better soon.

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 3rd, 2017

    As long as there is no active bleeding, you can try soaking her paw in a warm water bath with Epsom Salt for 5-10 minutes, twice a day. This can help soothe some of the tenderness associated with the torn nail. Do this daily and limit her activity until this area heals.

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    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 6th, 2018

    It's difficult to know the extent of the injury without seeing it, but it doesn't sound very bad. In some cases it's OK to care for it at home, but in others, it's best to have professional help to avoid further complications. Below is a link to good information about caring for torn nails. vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/first-aid-for-broken-nails-in-dogs It's good to keep it clean and keep it covered for now. You can keep it clean by flushing the foot with cool water for 10 minutes a day. You can also do a footbath with epsom salts for 15 minutes once a day.  I hope that helps and she gets better soon.

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