Trimming Dog Nails: How and Why It’s Important

Dr. Timi
2. December, 2024

Trimming Dog Nails: How and Why It’s Important

Trimming dog nails is an essential part of regular grooming that many pet owners often neglect. In fact, nails are just as important for dogs as they are for humans – overly long nails can cause discomfort, pain, or even more serious health problems. The following explains why regular nail trimming is crucial, how to perform the procedure correctly, and what you need to know to make the process as relaxing as possible for your dog.

Why Is Trimming Dog Nails Important?

Prevention of Pain and Injury: Overly long nails can alter a dog’s walking pattern, as the dog has to adjust its posture, which can eventually lead to poor posture and joint pain. Nails can also break or split, which is painful and can lead to infections.
Health of the Paws: Nails that are too long can begin to curl inward and even grow into the pads, causing wounds and infections. This is particularly problematic for older dogs or those that walk less.
Better Mobility: Dogs with well-maintained and properly trimmed nails can move more easily and naturally.

When Is It Time to Trim Your Dog’s Nails?

Dog nails need trimming when you notice that they are touching the ground or when you hear tapping as the dog walks on hard surfaces like hardwood floors. For most dogs, this is typically every 3–4 weeks, but the timing can vary depending on the size of the dog, its genetics, activity level, and the surface it walks on the most.

How to Properly Trim Dog Nails?

Trimming nails can be a stressful task for many pet owners, but with some practice and the right tools, you can learn to do it safely and painlessly for your dog. Here are a few steps that can help:

Choose the Right Clipper: There are several types of nail clippers available – scissor-type, guillotine-type, and electric grinders. Choose the one that feels most comfortable for you and is appropriate for the size of your dog.
Identify the ‘Quick’ in the Nail: Dog nails contain a blood vessel called the ‘quick,’ which is visible as a pink line in clear, translucent nails. For black nails, it’s harder to see, so it’s better to trim a little at a time. If you cut the quick, your dog will start bleeding and experience pain.

Praise and calm your dog: Before you start trimming, calm your dog and reward them with a treat. Be gentle and patient during the process, as fear or stress can make the experience worse for the dog. Step by step, or nail by nail, if necessary. It will pay off.

Trim a little at a time: Never trim too much at once, especially if you’re not sure where the quick is. Trim in small sections to avoid cutting the quick. If you’re unsure, stop and check the length of the nail again.

Don’t forget the dewclaw if your dog has one.

What to do if you cut the quick?

If you accidentally cut the quick and it starts to bleed, don’t panic. There are special powders available to stop the bleeding, but you can also use a home remedy such as cornstarch or kitchen flour. The bleeding should stop within a few minutes, but if it continues longer, contact your veterinarian.

How to get your dog used to nail trimming?

Some dogs are naturally more sensitive to having their paws touched, so it’s important to gradually get them used to nail trimming. Here are some tips:

Start early: If possible, start getting your dog used to having their paws touched and clippers as a puppy. The first sessions should be short and pressure-free.

Rewards and praise: Always reward your dog after each successful nail trim, even if you’ve only trimmed one nail. You know, nail by nail.

Be patient: If your dog is very frightened, start with small steps. First, get them used to having their paws touched, then bring the clippers close without trimming. Over time, your dog will become more relaxed.

When is it time to visit the vet?

If you’re unsure or your dog is extremely frightened, you can contact a veterinarian or professional pet groomer. For older dogs or those with deformed nails, it may be especially important for the procedure to be done by a professional.

Trimming your dog’s nails is crucial for their health and well-being. With regular grooming, you can prevent many health issues and ensure your four-legged friend remains active, healthy, and happy.