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Dog's nail split and bent, he's limping. When should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Male | neutered

My dog has caught his claw on something and it has split and bent. He licks it occasionally, is walking fine but worries if he thinks we are going to touch it. He doesn't appear to be in pain but was limping earlier this morning. Any advice please?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on September 20th, 2019

Ouch! That looks pretty split and should be trimmed back, especially if he is licking at it or limping as that can indicate pain. I would bring him to your vet so that he can be sedated and given some pain meds to make trimming any painful parts of the nail easier on him. Your vet can also provide you with longer-term pain meds and an antibiotic as needed to help it heal.

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