What is a dog’s quick?
The quick of a dog’s nail is the soft tissue inside that contains nerves and blood vessels (source). It is located within the nail bed, beginning at the base of the nail and extending outward toward the tip. The further down the nail you go, the closer you get to the quick. This tissue is very sensitive and can bleed and be painful for the dog if it is cut or damaged.
The quick provides nutrients to the nail root and creates new nail growth. It is usually pinkish in color, in contrast to the surrounding white nail, making it somewhat visible through more transparent nails. It’s important to avoid cutting into the quick when trimming a dog’s nails to prevent pain and bleeding.
Common causes of split nails
There are several common causes of split dog nails:
Getting nails caught on surfaces – Long nails can easily snag on carpets, grass, furniture fabric, and more, causing them to split or tear. Keeping nails neatly trimmed can help prevent splits.
Long quicks – If the quick (living blood vessel inside the nail) grows too long, it extends closer to the end of the nail and is more prone to exposure and injury when a split occurs.
Brittle nails – Dry, brittle nails are more likely to crack and split. This may be caused by nutritional deficiencies, infections, or other medical conditions.
Trauma/injury – Direct blows, being stepped on, catching the nail, and other physical traumas can cause nails to split or break. Keeping nails short reduces risk.
Signs of a Split Nail
There are a few key signs that indicate your dog has a split nail:
Bleeding/Sensitivity – One of the most obvious signs is bleeding from the nail. This happens when the nail splits deeply enough to expose the quick, which contains blood vessels and nerves. Your dog will likely feel pain and discomfort when the quick is exposed.
Limping/Discomfort – Dogs with a split nail may limp or avoid putting pressure on the affected paw. They may seem hesitant to walk or run normally. The pain from the exposed quick causes discomfort that alters their gait.
Excessive licking or chewing of the paw – In an attempt to soothe the pain and discomfort, dogs will often excessively lick, bite, or chew at the affected nail or paw. Pay attention for this behavior directed at the injured paw.
Whining or other vocalizations – Some dogs may cry, yelp, or whimper when the nail split occurs, especially if it is a severe injury. Vocalizations are a sign your dog is experiencing significant pain.
Increased sensitivity when nail is touched – Dogs will be quite sensitive when the split nail is touched or bumped. They may recoil, withdraw the paw, or vocalize when it is handled.
Abnormal nail appearance – Visually inspecting the nail, you may see a crack, fracture, missing piece, or abnormal bend indicating a split.
Risks of exposed quick
An exposed quick can be very painful and uncomfortable for dogs. The quick contains sensitive nerve endings and blood vessels, so damage to this area is often accompanied by bleeding and significant pain. Dogs may cry, whimper, or excessively lick at the injured paw in an attempt to soothe the discomfort.
In addition to the initial pain, an exposed nail quick is also vulnerable to infection. With the protective nail bed damaged and the sensitive quick exposed, bacteria can more easily enter the nail bed and cause an infection. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, foul odor, and discharge. Infections require veterinary treatment with antibiotics.
Further trauma is another risk associated with an exposed quick. Since the area is unprotected and highly sensitive, dogs may experience additional pain and injury if the paw is bumped or the nail catches on surfaces. This can prolong healing time. It’s important to bandage the paw to shield the quick until the nail can grow over it again.
Treating a split nail
If your dog has a split nail, the first priority is stopping any bleeding. Apply pressure with a clean towel or gauze pad directly on the nail for 5-10 minutes until bleeding stops. If bleeding continues, you can use a styptic pencil, silver nitrate stick or cauterizing powder, which can be purchased at pet stores, to help constrict blood vessels VCA Animal Hospitals.
Next, bandage the paw to protect the injured nail or exposed tissue if the nail ripped off completely. Wrap the foot in gauze or a light bandage, being careful not to wrap too tightly. Change the bandage daily. To limit activity while the nail heals, you can also make a splint with popsicle sticks and more bandages to immobilize the leg ToeGrips.
For pain management, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen can be used, but consult your vet on proper dosage for your dog’s size and weight. You can also apply a cold compress to the paw for 10-15 minutes a few times a day to reduce pain and swelling.
Preventing split nails
There are a few ways to help prevent your dog’s nails from splitting and cracking:
Regular nail trims – Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed to an appropriate length can prevent splits and cracks from developing. The pressure on the nail from hitting the ground can cause splits, so trimming regularly prevents excessive growth.
Using a nail file – Filing your dog’s nails smooth after trimming can minimize cracks and points that are prone to catching and splitting. Use a dog nail file to gently smooth the edges.
Moisturizing nails – Applying a moisturizing balm or oil made for dogs keeps nails conditioned and less prone to brittle splitting. Products like Musher’s Secret Paw Protection Wax can help soften nails.
In addition to trimming, filing and moisturizing, make sure your dog is getting nutrients that support nail health from their diet or supplements. Talk to your vet if you have ongoing issues with cracked nails.
When to see a vet
It’s critical to have a veterinarian examine your dog’s split nail if they experience severe bleeding or signs of infection. Severe bleeding that won’t stop after 10-15 minutes of pressure should receive prompt veterinary attention according to PetMD. Uncontrolled bleeding risks blood loss, shock, and contamination.
Signs of infection include swelling, redness, foul odor, and pus. These require antibiotic treatment. Left untreated, infections can spread. Bring your dog in if any infection signs emerge around the nail or paw within a few days of the injury according to The Wildest.
You should also see your vet if lameness in the injured paw persists more than a few days after the split nail according to The Wildest. This suggests an underlying issue needing veterinary attention.
Vet treatments
If the quick is exposed, veterinary treatment is recommended. The vet will examine the nail and determine the best course of action.
Further trimming of the nail may be necessary to remove any jagged edges and get a better look at the quick. The vet will use a nail trimmer to carefully trim back more of the nail, if needed. This helps reduce further tearing or catching on things.
Antibiotics may be prescribed, especially if the quick is bleeding or inflamed. Infection is a risk when the sensitive quick is exposed. Antibiotics help prevent infection from setting in.
In severe cases, such as if the nail is partially torn off or the toe is fractured, surgery may be required. The vet may remove the damaged part of the nail or apply nail glue and a bandage to protect it while it heals. Surgery can save the nail and prevent complications.
With proper veterinary treatment, most dogs recover fully after a split nail and quick exposure. Prompt treatment reduces risks and supports healing. Be sure to follow all post-care instructions from your vet.
Sources:
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/first-aid-for-broken-nails-in-dogs
Caring for nail post-injury
After your dog suffers a nail injury, proper care is crucial for healing. Here are some tips for caring for your dog’s nail after an injury:
Keeping the nail clean is important to prevent infection. Gently clean around the nail with a pet-safe antiseptic wash daily. Avoid getting soap or chemicals directly in the wound. Pat dry afterwards.
Allow the nail adequate time to heal. Restrict your dog’s activity to prevent further injury and give the nail time to mend. Walks should be short and low-impact until fully healed.
Monitor the nail for signs of infection like swelling, redness, discharge or a bad odor. Call your vet if you notice anything concerning. Infections will require antibiotics.
Cover the nail with a sock or bandage when possible to keep debris out of the wound. Change bandages frequently to keep it clean.
Continue checking the injured nail daily as it heals. Look for any new cracking or irritation. With time, the nail should grow out normally again.
Long-term management
To prevent future split nails, it’s important to manage your dog’s nails on an ongoing basis through regular trims, supplements, and providing scratching posts.
Get your dog’s nails trimmed by a groomer or vet every 2-4 weeks to keep the quick short and reduce the risk of splits. Be sure not to trim too short to avoid hitting the quick. According to PetMD, “For long-term maintenance, it’s best to clip your dog’s nails weekly to prevent them from overgrowing. Overgrown nails are much more likely to split or tear.”1
Consider giving your dog nail supplements that can strengthen nails over time. Look for ones with biotin, methionine, omega-3s, vitamin E, and zinc. Always consult your vet before starting any new supplements.
Provide scratching posts around the house and yard to file down nails naturally. Add a horizontal scratching post, vertical cat tree, or textured scratching pad. Praise and reward your dog for using these instead of furniture.
With diligent at-home care, you can help keep your dog’s nails short and strong to prevent painful splits.