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My dog's nail is broken and bleeding. Should I cut it or see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | spayed | 25 lbs

My dog is a chihuahua and she hurt one of her nails and it is cut up to the base and I applied styptic powder for the bleeding but her nail is halfway hanging. Should I cut the nail? She can’t even walk or step on her left back leg

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 6th, 2019

I wouldn't try to cut it yourself, it looks like it's broken back to the quick. This will be extremely painful for Choco. She needs to see a vet to get sedated and have it cut. Bandage it to protect it tonight, then have her seen by a vet in the morning.

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 17th, 2018

    You could try and cut the broken piece but this can be very uncomfortable, if she is not currently lame i would monitor to see if it will fall itself. Watch for heat, pain or swelling which may indicate infection

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