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My dog's broken nail split to the paw. Is infection a risk? Vet now?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | English Bulldog | Female | spayed | 1 year and 2 months old | 48 lbs

My dog has a nail that looks like it was broke in half and now split to the paw. She has a vet appointment next week but i don’t know if I should try to get her in sooner or if this is something that can be waited out. I just don’t want it to get infected. Can something like this easily get infected? Should I just keep an eye on it? It doesn’t seem to be bothering her but it looks gross.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 17th, 2019

Yes, something like this can become easily infected. It does look a bit swollen and that can be one of the first signs of infection. I do think you should probably take her to the vet sooner if you can. In the meantime you can apply this wound spray to it a few times a day.

( https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/vetericyn-plus-wound-and-skin-care-for-dogs )

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on September 1st, 2017
I am sorry to hear about Titus. I am concerned based on your description and the photos that Titus could have an infection in his toe. The open wound due to the broken nail is a site where bacteria can enter the body. The discharge and swelling is a sign of infection. Your dog likely needs oral antibiotics and also possibly a pain medication. Until you are able to have him seen keep using the e-collar on him if he is licking the toe and you can apply a topical antibiotic like neosporin to the area several times a day.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH
Veterinarian
Published on October 9th, 2017
Hi and thanks for your post on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach this morning!

Unfortunately the pictures are not coming up for me.

If he lost some nails from the trauma of being stepped on and the paw looks swollen, he should go to his nearest veterinarian soon. He may have fractured the paw. He will need x-rays, casting or bandaging, and antibiotics to help with the infection.

I hope you are able to take him in very soon. In the mean time, you can help decrease swelling by placing a cold pack on the area covered with a towel for 10 mins 3 times daily until he can see a veterinarian

Best of luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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