Did your dog break a nail? Here's what you can do

We know it's stressful when your dog has chipped or split a nail. But don't fret: you can help them. Here, we discuss what to do if your dog's chipped a nail, signs that it's broken and when to see a vet. Summary: when is a dog’s nail broken, and when should I get help? Signs your dog’s nail is broken When to see a vet We always recommend seeing a vet for a broken nail. But signs it's an emergency include: Please see a vet if you’re concerned - a broken nail can escalate into deeper problems. How do dogs break their nails? Dogs break their nails for all sorts of reasons, but most commonly, it’s due to: How to tell if your dog's broken a nail First, let's play detective. Is your dog limping, licking their paw, or showing signs of pain? Check those nails. A broken or split nail might not be obvious at a glance, so inspect closely. Look for: How to help your dog with a broken or split nail Have you discovered a broken or split nail? Here are a few steps you can take to help: Step-by-step: broken dog nail first aid Some dogs find a broken nail very painful, so they may resent you touching it. If it is safe for you to handle your dog’s paw without getting bitten, you could try and do the following: Even once your dog's poor paw is wrapped and seemingly under control, it's probably still a good idea to head to the vet for a check over. They can help make sure there isn't an underlying condition or something else, like a serious infection, taking root. They may even prescribe antibiotics. When is it an emergency? A broken nail is an emergency if there’s: A vet must see your dog’s paw if there’s a serious nail break, as they can cause pain and may even lead to severe infection, with damage to the bone. Can a broken or split nail heal on its own? When your dog suffers from a broken or split nail, you might wonder if it's a wait-and-see situation. If the break is minor, superficial, and not bleeding, your dog’s nail might heal over time with just some basic home care. But remember that dog nails have both a blood supply and nerve endings, so significant damage won’t just resolve itself, and again, serious infections can crop up. This is especially true if: The bottom line? Even for the confident, DIY pet parents out there, a trip to the vet is always the best choice. Cost for treating a broken or split nail Treating a broken or split nail in your dog can vary in cost depending on treatment. For a more basic treatment that includes a clean, trim and dressing you'll be looking at a lot less than more intensive treatments. These can involve sedation, pain medication and antibiotics. And sometimes even minor surgery. Costs can also vary based on your location and the specific veterinary practice. Urban areas and speciality clinics typically charge more. Are some breeds more prone to broken nails? Yes, some breeds are more prone to broken nails due to a mix of genetics or nail shape. Breeds that are prone to nail problems include: What factors influence nail strength? How to prevent nail breaks in the future Regular nail trims can prevent future nail drama. Keep those clippers handy, and aim for a trimming session every month or so, depending on how quickly your dog's nails grow. Broken nails are no fun, but with a bit of know-how, you can get your pup back on their paws in no time. Stay vigilant and give those paws the TLC they deserve so your pup can prance through life with you for the long haul. Making sure your pet is on a good-quality, complete diet is important , too, as deficiencies can weaken their nails. Frequently asked questions How long does a broken nail take to heal? It usually takes a few weeks for a broken nail to heal. But it does depend on how damaged it is. My dog isn't bleeding, but they won't stop licking. Is it still a break? Yes. Just because a nail isn’t bleeding, it doesn’t mean it isn’t broken. Constant licking is usually a dog’s reaction to discomfort or pain. Will the nail grow back? Yes. It takes around four to six weeks. What if the nail is sticking out sideways? This usually means there’s an issue with your dog’s nail base or nail bed, or there is a bit of broken nail still hanging on at an angle. You must see a vet for this.

Did your dog break a nail? Here's what you can do

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