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Why is my dog's nail bed red and oozing pus? What should I do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Redness and pus coming out from my dog nail bed, what happen?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on April 10th, 2020

It's likely she either slightly torn the nail at the base and now it's infected or she got a puncture wound which is now infected. I recommend to have your pup examined by the veterinarian. Have her wear an elizabethan collar at all times to prevent licking. Avoid further trauma. I hope this helps.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on October 6th, 2017
It depends on how bad it is injured. If he still seems uncomfortable and licking it tomorrow morning I would recommend having it looked at. It could be broken down under the nail bed and may need to have the broken part removed. It may make him more comfortable to soak it in warm water and Epsom salts tonight.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on July 31st, 2017
This seems an infection of the nail bed. It is impossible to give you a more specific diagnosis at this stage.
A check up, appropriate disinfection and eventually antibiotics are needed to solve the problem.
Disinfection can eventually be started at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths. Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid any licking.

Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Silvia De Cecco, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on January 3rd, 2018
Considering the pictures you uploaded, the main differentials to be considered are infective (bacterial or fungal) and immune-mediated diseases.
A nail sample should be ideally taken for analysis and a treatment trial (based on antibiotics to start with) should be prescribed by your local veterinarian.
A buster collar would be ideal to avoid further licking/chewing.

Do not hesitate to post again on the forum or request a consultation if you would like to discuss it any further.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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