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My dog's dew claw is cracked and he chewed it. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | neutered | 5 years and 3 months old

My dog cracked his dew claw playing, and had since chewed away the karotin exposing the quick. What should i do

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on November 18th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This can be quite painful. I recommend you have him evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They can consider removing the dew claw to take the source of pain away or it can be treated with pain medications and antibiotics for instance. In the meantime, keep him from being able to reach it as he will likely want to lick or chew at it which can make it a lot worse. You may use an e-collar for that purpose. Good luck!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 17th, 2016

    Ouch poor Niles! It's good that the quick is intact with no bleeding. I would keep him from licking or biting at it by putting an Ecollar on him. You can get one from a pet store, or you can make your own at home (I will put up a link on how to make one at home). You can also try to trim it back yourself if it's cracked horizontally, but avoid cutting the quick. http://dogsaholic.com/care/homemade-dog-cone.html

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