Dog Nail Bleeding After Trimming: What to Do and Is It Serious?

If your dog's nail bleeds after trimming, the first step is to stay calm and soothe your dog to prevent them from getting overly agitated. If the bleeding is minor, begin by disinfecting the wound, then apply a styptic powder or bandage. However, if the bleeding is excessive, it's critical. Stop the bleeding immediately and take your dog to the nearest veterinarian for treatment.

When you accidentally cut your dog's nail and it starts to bleed, it's essential for owners not to panic. Calm your dog to prevent further injury. If the wound is small with minimal bleeding, start by disinfecting it with iodine or hydrogen peroxide. Then, apply a styptic powder or a bandage. If the bleeding is moderate, apply pressure for 5-10 minutes before disinfecting and bandaging. However, if the bleeding is severe and doesn't stop, it could be because a vital area was cut or your dog may have a blood clotting disorder. In such cases, apply pressure with cotton wool while rushing your dog to the vet.

How to Properly Trim Your Dog's Nails

Before trimming your dog's nails, have some cotton balls, styptic powder, or cornstarch readily available. It's common for beginners to cut into the quick, so be prepared to stop any bleeding. Always use pet-specific nail clippers as regular clippers are not strong enough. Use a bright light to illuminate the nail and clearly identify the quick (the pink area containing blood vessels). Start trimming from the edge of the nail gradually, avoiding cutting too close to the quick. You can also use a nail grinder to gently file the nail, which will also help prevent cutting the quick. If your dog has black nails, it is best to take them to a professional groomer. This is because the quick is much more difficult to see.Bonus resource:Pet Knowledge