Each of your dog’s nails contains a core called the quick, which carries nerves and blood supply. “Each of your dog’s nails has a pink center called the quick, which carries blood vessels and nerves,” explains Dr. Emily Gamm, DVM, associate veterinarian at South Sioux Animal Hospital in South Sioux City, Nebraska. “Think of your own fingernails—if you cut into the pink part, it hurts and may bleed. The same is true for dogs.” Aside from trimming too short, nails may bleed if they split or crack from being too long. They can also become injured if your dog plays on rough surfaces like pavement or gravel. Some dogs may be more prone to breakages than others. Dr. Gamm explains that working dogs or those who do agility use their claws like how an athlete uses cleats on their shoes. These dogs may wear down their nails and need trims less frequently. But they may also be more prone to breaking or splitting a nail, which can cause bleeding. Dr. Gamm lists a few other common reasons for nail blowouts, including nails getting caught during play, on clothes, in high-pile rugs, on wood floors, or on fences. Dogs with dark nails are especially tricky to trim because the quick is harder to see, which makes small, careful trims more important. “With dark nails, you often can’t see the quick,” says Dr. Gamm. “Trim just a little at a time and look at the nail end-on. When you start to see a dark spot appear in the center, stop cutting—you’re getting close to the quick.” She recommends using a Dremel or nail grinder for extra control, or having your vet or groomer demonstrate safe trimming first. ,A bloody dog nail can look dramatic. At minimum, you’ll notice some blood droplets on the floor. At worst, there’s blood everywhere—on the furniture, your pup, your clothes or car—and lots of licking can make things worse. A bleeding nail can put any pet parent into a panic. Stressful as it may seem, in most cases, it’s OK to administer treatment at home if you have the right tools and take calm steps. Knowing what causes dog nail bleeding and how to stop it will help you keep your pup safe and comfortable.
