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My dog ripped a nail off her front paw. What should I do to help her?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Bulldog | Female | unspayed | 2 years and 1 month old

My dog has ripped her nail off on her front paw what can i do

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Summer Walker, DVM, MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 20th, 2018

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Ouch, poor Naria. If the nail is completely removed and exposing the nail bed, keep the toe as clean as possible to try to prevent infection. For my patients that have done this, I typically will place them on oral antibiotics and analgesics (pain medication) to prevent infection and keep them comfortable while the nail regrows. Some nails will not regrow normally if the nailbed was also injured. If Naria is limping on the affected paw, or the toe becomes swollen I would recommend having her seen by her veterinarian for appropriate medications to be dispensed.

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    Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 3rd, 2018

    Poor Sheila! I recommend contacting a veterinarian to have Sheila ’s nail evaluated, as you are correct that it is likely causing her a lot of pain. Pain medications meant for humans can be very dangerous (and even deadly) for dogs, so I do not recommend giving any to your pup without consulting with your vet. Your veterinarian can prescribe safe medication to help with the pain, bandage the area if necessary, and may want to recommend a topical or systemic antibiotic to help reduce the risk of infection, as infection is a concern. In the meantime, keep the area clean and dry, keep an e-collar (cone) on Sheila to help prevent her from licking the area, and cover it when you take her outside to help keep the area clean. You can use dog boots for this, or a plastic bag, but remember not to tie it too tight, and to take it off when she goes back inside. I hope Sheila feels better soon!

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