It’s a common and stressful experience for dog owners: you’re trimming your dog’s nails, and suddenly you cut too far, causing bleeding. This is often called “quicking” the dog. While it’s alarming, the good news is that with the right care, you can handle it calmly and ensure your dog is okay.
What Is “the Quick” and Why It Bleeds
Anatomy of the Nail
Just like our fingernails have a live part, so do your dog’s nails. The quick is a vein and nerve that runs through the core of the nail. It’s the pink part you can see in dogs with clear nails. In dogs with black or dark nails, it is much harder to spot.
Pain & Sensitivity
When you cut into the quick, it can be painful and will bleed quite a bit, but it is not a major injury. Your dog may yelp, pull away, or become anxious. It’s important to stay calm; your reaction can influence their stress level.
First Aid Steps Right Away
Apply Styptic Powder or Cornstarch
The most effective way to stop the bleeding is by applying styptic powder. If you don’t have any, a small amount of cornstarch or flour can also work. Simply press the powder onto the tip of the bleeding nail.
Clean, Gentle Pressure, Keep Calm
Apply gentle but firm pressure to the end of the nail for a few minutes. Avoid wiping or rubbing the area. Keep your dog as calm and still as possible during this time.
When Is It Safe to Walk?
Waiting for Bleeding to Stop Fully
You should not walk your dog immediately after they have been quicked. Wait until the bleeding has completely stopped and the wound has clotted. Walking too soon can cause the clot to dislodge and the bleeding to start again. This can be painful and will prolong the healing process.
Use Booties or Bandage If Advised
If the cut was deep, or if your dog is particularly active, you can use a dog bootie or a light bandage for the first walk to protect the healing nail bed from dirt and debris.
Monitoring for Problems
Licking, Swelling, Persistent Bleeding
Keep an eye on the paw over the next 24 hours. A little bit of licking is normal, but if your dog is obsessively licking, if the paw becomes swollen, or if the bleeding starts again and won’t stop, something may be wrong.
When to Contact Your Vet
While most quicking incidents heal on their own, contact your vet if the bleeding doesn’t stop after 20 minutes, if the paw shows signs of infection (puss, foul smell, etc.), or if your dog is in visible, long-lasting pain.
How to Avoid Cutting the Quick Next Time
Proper Tools & Technique
Always use sharp, clean nail clippers. Trim only a small amount of the nail at a time. If you have a dog with dark nails, look for the small, black “dot” in the center of the nail after each small cut; this indicates you are getting close to the quick.
Frequent Small Trims vs Long Intervals
Trimming your dog’s nails frequently (once every 1-2 weeks) can help the quick recede, making it less likely to be cut by accident.
Have you ever quicked your dog and need a little help with their nails? Golden Paw Pet Services is here to help! Our team is trained to safely and gently trim your dog’s nails so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
