Don’t panic if you accidentally cut your dog’s nails and they start bleeding. There are many ways to treat it at home. Here’s everything you need about how to cut your dog’s nails too short. There are many home remedies and products that can be used to stop bleeding, as well as advice about when to visit your vet.
What causes dog’s nails to bleed?
It doesn’t matter how it happens, whether they are playing too hard or catching their feet on furniture. A bleeding nail is usually the result of a quick and severe injury.
What is the Quick?
The soft tissue that runs through the middle of your dog’s nails contains soft tissue. This is called the quick. The quick of a dog is made up nerves and blood vessels that can cause severe pain and bleeding if they aren’t taken care of. It is important to take care when trimming your dog’s nails.
Owners may be able avoid damaging their dog’s quick by having clear nails or white nails. This is because they might be able to see tissue better than others who have black nails. Dogs with dark nails may find it easier to take them to a groomer, who may offer help on home grooming.
Stop Your Dog’s Nail Bleeding
It can be distressing to see your dog companion’s feet covered in blood. Keep calm and stop them from bleeding. Nail trimmings that go wrong are easy to fix.
Apply Pressure to the Nail Damaged
Firm pressure is necessary when a dog’s nails bleed. To stop the bleeding, grab a tissue, paper towel or cloth and apply pressure as quickly as possible.
Notice: If your dog is bleeding from trimming, they may not want to come to you again. You may need to calm them down before you can treat them. Your dog will become anxious and tense when they feel stressed. This will cause their blood flow to increase, which can lead to worsening of the situation. It might be worth asking for help if your dog is large.
Styptic Powder
Styptic powder is the best way to stop your dog’s nails from bleeding. Antihemorrhagic drugs will immediately begin to work by contracting blood vessels. This will result in the formation of clots or scabs, which will stop bleeding.
You can buy styptic powder at your local pet shop. It can also be used to treat minor injuries such as cuts and scrapes. It’s worth investing in some powder if you don’t already have it. Although there are many brands that make styptic powder, most sources say that Kwik Stop is the best and most trusted.
The amount of powder you need will depend upon how much nail bleeding is occurring. You will need more power if there is more bleeding.
To stop bleeding, simply place some powder on your finger. You can also place the powder in a bowl and dip your dog’s toes into it. Apply the powder by applying pressure to the area and continuing this process until you see no more bleeding. You can release the powder once blood stops leaking out.
Styptic Pencils and Silver Nitrate Sticks
A styptic pencil or silver nitrate stick can be used to stop your dog from bleeding. Although it may be difficult for you to find the right styptic pencil, standard pencils can often be found in stores and pharmacies. They are used to treat minor cuts during shaving.
Home Remedies For Dog Nail Bleeding
There are some things you can do around the house if your dog starts to bleed if you don’t have a pencil or styptic powder.
Corn Starch, Baking Soda Or Potato Starch
All of these options can stop bleeding from dogs’ nails. Each product will work in the same way as the styptic powder, stimulating blood to clot. You can place a large amount in a container or in your palm. Place the toenail of the dog in the container and press down until it stops bleeding.
You can also apply starch or baking soda using a towel, cloth, or paper towel. You can thicken the powders with water if they don’t cover well. It may make a little mess, but it will stop the bleeding.
To treat nail trimming injuries, you can use flour or baking powder in place of corn starch, baking soda and potato starch.
Unscented Soap
Dog nails can stop bleeding by using scent-free soap. Place your dog’s nails into the soap until they stop bleeding. To prevent blood from leaking out, you can cut a small piece of soap and attach it to your dog’s nail.
Ice
Applying ice to the paw of your dog will help stop bleeding. The ice will work its magic and the towel or cloth will absorb the blood.
Using Super Glue
Super glue is a great way to close small cuts and allow the body to heal. This glue is safe and has been used for minor wounds and cuts for many years.
Before applying glue, you will need to wipe off as much blood as possible. You should also make sure your dog doesn’t sniff it or lick it until it is dry completely. The glue residue will begin to peel off after a few days.
Notice: No matter what treatment you choose to use to heal the nail that is bleeding, the wound will sting. Make sure your dog is comfortable and calm.
When should you see a vet?
You can easily treat a dog’s nail that is bleeding with home remedies and rest. If the nail is very cracked or loose, it might be worth visiting a veterinarian. Your dog may become more susceptible to infection if the problem persists or is not treated promptly.
If the blood is coming directly from the nail bed, it may be worth calling a vet. It is important to quickly wrap the wound up if it is very deep. If the bleeding continues, you should take the patient to the veterinarian.
Clotting Disorders
A clotting disorder is a condition where the platelets of some dogs are unable to respond quickly enough, resulting in more bleeding. This condition can be passed on to the dog or caused by a medical condition like liver disease.
These disorders can be manifested as:
Prolonged bleeding after injuries or surgeriesLarge bruisesBloody urineNosebleedsBleeding gumsRed/purple spotting on the skinBlack stools
ftercare
Once you have stopped the nail from leaking, take a deep breathe! It’s crucial that you allow your dog to relax while you do this. You can use bandages to keep your paws from being further damaged.
Encourage them to lie down and remain on their feet for 30 minutes while the wound heals. While your dog is relaxed, you should be there to monitor their wound. If you are unable to supervise your dog, a friend, family member or dog sitter can help. Talk to your vet immediately if it doesn’t stop bleeding and is not improving.
Do not forget to show your dog love and affection. Positive reinforcement will make them less anxious about future nail trimmings. They won’t run away from the scissors immediately. A stuffed toy can keep them busy, but they won’t be able to play as vigorously.
Tips for Nail Trimming at home
For many reasons, trimming your dog’s nails can be important. If your dog’s nails get too long, it can cause problems in their posture and gait. It is important to learn how to safely trim nails at home.
Make sure your dog is calm and happy. This will help them relax and be less anxious when having their nails trimmed. Next, you will need to identify which part of the nail is safe for trimming.
You should only trim the nails to a maximum of 1-2mm per piece. This will ensure that the nail is not too hard or likely to break the quick. You should be able identify the safe areas more easily if your dog has very light nails.
If the nail feels soft and cushioned, don’t trim it. You could inadvertently cut a blood vessel. Always check your nail after trimming.
Get The Gear
It is essential to have the right tools for trimming nails at home. Do not use clippers made for humans, or dull or rusted tools. These two guides are specifically designed to help dog owners find the best nail trimmers and grinders.
You can find the best dog nail grinding tools here. Dog parents can choose between grinders or clippers, but not necessarily both. Clippers can be used manually, while grinders can be used electrically. Both have their pros and cons, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference. Be sure to consider both options before making a decision. This will help you avoid spending more on products that are not as effective.
Summarising – How to Stop a Dog’s Nail from Bleeding
Nail injuries are common when a dog’s nails are cut too short. It is important to keep calm and stop the nail from bleeding if it starts. To encourage blood vessels to clot, follow the tips and tricks listed above so healing can start.
Online advice or our guide to trimming nails for dogs can help you make your nail cutting process more efficient.
Ensure that your dog is calm and comfortable while you deal with the bleeding. You can then reassure your pup by giving them praise and treats so that they don’t become hostile or anxious about having their nails cut.
How to stop your dog’s nails from bleeding Top Dog Advisor.