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My bearded dragon's paw is turned and nails are missing. Vet needed?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My son got a male bearded dragon from someone. we noticed that his left front paw is turned in a way that the bottom of his paw is facing outwards towards the left {almost flipped over}. He is also missing some nails. Should we take him to a vet?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on January 4th, 2018

This could be a result of prior injury, nutritional deficiency or congenital defect. Since Airez is "new" to you, an exam with your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet would be recommended.
The missing nails should not pose a problem. If he isn't lame or does not seem bothered by his paw, then it may not be an issue but this would need to be confirmed after a physical exam.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Ady Y. Gancz, DVM, ABVP (Avian), ECZM
Veterinarian, Board-certified avian specialist
Hi and thank you for this question,
Yes, I would recommend taking him to the vet for an initial exam. This deformity may be an old fracture that has healed this way, but from the pics Alrez seems to be very thin. Please make sure to read a care sheet about bearded dragons and to provide him with the correct condition and diet. This is very important. He could have a medical problem or that he has not been cared for too well by the previous owner.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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