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My dog's nail broke off, exposing the quick. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Rottweiler | Female | spayed | 5 years and 4 months old | 80 lbs

My 80 lb rottie had pulled off the bottom part of her back outside nail underneath the nail. It is red flesh but not bleeding, I am not sure what to do. It does not touch the floor.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on December 25th, 2020

Ouch poor Rayne. It looks like the quick is exposed. I would put a little bit of Neosporin on it, then bandage it. Make sure the bandage isn't too tight, and I'd put a cone on her to keep her from licking the bandage. You can make one at home or buy one at a pet store. Put a sock over the bandage when you take her outside to protect it, and change the bandage daily. Monitor it for signs of infection. If you see redness, swelling, warmth to the touch, or pus, then it is infected and she will need to see the vet for antibiotics to treat it. If she starts limping, it means its painful to her and she will need to see a vet. I hope this helps!

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