Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Already a member? Sign in
Become a credit card member today!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
APPLY NOW
Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My dog's ripped toenail is swollen and he's limping. What to do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 80 lbs

My dog ripped off one of his toenails about 2 weeks ago. It is now swollen & he's limping. What can I do?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 6th, 2017

It sounds like it is infected. You could soak his paw in a warm Epsom salt solution and see if that helps. He should also be examined by a vet as he will probably need an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory to help treat the problem.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Anna M., DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 11th, 2017
Poor Snickers! That's some pretty significant swelling; I'm concerned that either the toe itself is broken or the broken toenail has gotten infected. If you are seeing discharge from the nail bed that indicates infection, and if he will tolerate it, you can try soaking his foot in a warm epsom salt tub for 5-10 minutes, 3 times daily. Gently dry his foot with a clean towel after. This can help draw out some of the discharge from the infection. Also, REST is important, especially if this toe might be broken. Take him outside to go potty on a leash, then right back inside again - no rough housing or playing off leash until the swelling and soreness have resolved. Honestly, though, I have a hunch this is infected, in which case it won't get better without oral antibiotics - which would require a vet visit. Hope this helps.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Related Questions

My dog is limping with a swollen toe. Can I treat a nail infection?

Poor Spike Lee (love his name!). No, unfortunately you can't treat this yourself, an infection requires oral antibiotics to treat and only a vet can prescribe them for him. I would take him into the vet tomorrow to have his nail treated. Tonight, you can try soaking his foot in an Epsom salt bath to give him some temporary relief. I hope this helps!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My dog is limping and has a swollen paw. What can I do at home?

Inspect her paw for thorns or other foreign bodies, You can also bathe/soak the paw in some warm epsom salt bath, If the swelling does not go down within 48 hrs you need to take her to a vet for an exam. There may be infection and she might need prescription antibiotics.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

Why is my dog limping with a swollen toe after his nail fell out?

Poor Rocky. The swelling can indicate infection and limping means he is in pain. Unfortunately there are no OTC pain relievers you can give him, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. You should take him into a vet now to have him treated. I hope this helps!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Dog's toenail is swollen and hard. When should I take him to the vet?

Ouch. That does look swollen. Dogs can get bacterial or yeast infections around their nail beds. If that is what is going on, the Epson Salt soaks will likely slowly make the swelling go down over a couple of days. However, if Tom is licking the nail, it will likely stay moist and have a harder time resolving. Unfortunately, there are other conditions that can occur around nail beds like tumors and auto-immune problems, so if it is not getting better, is getting worse or seems painful I would take him to your vet. i hope that answers your question. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Puppy's paws swollen, infected, nails falling off. What should I do?

Wow this sounds awful! She needs to see a vet right away when you can get this done.. In the meantime, if she will let you try to soak the paws in a warm water/epsom salt solution several times a day, and then wrap them so she doesn't lick. Use 1-2 tbsp of epsom salt per 4-5 cups of warm water. Good luck!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My dog's ripped nail is swollen and infected. What home remedies work?

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Lucy! If you think it is infected it is best to have your Vet examine it and provide oral antibiotics. At home you can soak the foot in Epsom salts and apply a triple antibiotic ointment around the nail base twice daily. Lucy should also wear and E-collar at all times to prevent licking the toe. If there is no improvement in 5 days she should see your Vet. If it gets worse in those 5 days then sooner. I hope this helps and I wish Lucy a speedy recovery!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

My dog's lost toenail won't heal; why is he still limping?

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Hank. I am concerned that his toe is not healing. Infections in the nail and digit can be hard to treat. Sometimes aggressive antibiotics are needed. I will usually prescribe two separate antibiotics for a broader spectrum of coverage. However, I am always suspicious of cancer when there is a non-healing on a toe. In this case, you may discuss amputation with his veterinarian. I hope this information helps!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share