Everything You Need to Know
ABOUT CLIPPING YOUR DOG’S NAILS
Clipping your dog’s nails at home doesn’t need to be stressful or overwhelming. With some knowledge and helpful tips and tricks, clipping your dog’s nails can be a positive experience.
WHY DO I NEED TO CUT MY DOG’S NAILS?
Clipping your dog’s nails as part of their regular grooming routine is extremely important, as it helps avoid discomfort and pain for your pet. When your pet’s nails grow too long, they won’t break off and can curl back into the paw pad.
This creates discomfort and can affect how they walk and cause joint aches and pains. In severe cases, it can also lead to an infection.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I BE TRIMMING MY DOG’S NAILS?
Creating a regular schedule can be extremely helpful to avoid overgrown nails. The exact timeline will vary depending on the dog breed and their activity level. Whilst their nails will wear down to an extent during play and activity, it is not enough to keep them at a healthy length. Maintaining a well-groomed, regularly trimmed paw will make the process smoother and more manageable. Most dogs will need their nails clipped every four to six weeks. Senior or injured dogs who are less mobile may need their nails trimmed more frequently than others.
The easiest way to know is to check their paws now and then.
WHERE DO I START?
Before you even begin to clip your pet’s nails, spend a couple of days or weeks getting your pet used to the feel of you touching and holding their paws. You can make this into a fun little game, particularly with puppies. Make sure you are always gentle, holding their paw securely now and then and spreading their toes to mimic the action you would use when clipping their nails.
Ensure you use a pair of nail clippers specifically designed for pets. There are a few different styles, including scissor-type clippers and guillotine-type clippers.
THE KNITTY GRITTY – HOW TO TRIM YOUR DOG’S NAILS
Keeping your pet calm is the priority. Hold your dog’s paw, softly squeezing the paw pad and spreading the toes. This will make trimming easier.
Examine each toe carefully before trimming. Trim each nail at a 45-degree angle, taking off only a small amount of nail at a time.
While trimming each nail, be careful not to cut too deeply, avoiding cutting into the quick. If you see a small black dot in the centre of the nail, stop trimming.
For black nails, cut only small portions of the nail at a time, stopping when you see grey or pink appear. This is the quick of the nail.
If you accidentally cut the quick, your dog may cry out in pain and begin bleeding. Remain calm to avoid stressing your pet further. Grab a towel or some tissue and apply it to the area for a few minutes. If the bleeding has not stopped after 10 minutes, contact your vet.
It can be much easier to hold small dogs securely while you clip; however, for larger dogs, make sure they are comfortable and consider asking a friend to help on your first try, as it may be daunting on your own.
REWARDS!
Make sure to reward your pup the entire way through, making this a normal and even enjoyable part of their routine. Rewarding them will make it easier the next time you trim their nails, as they won’t see it as a negative experience. Give plenty of belly scratches and treats, and shower your pet with praise as you gradually move through the process. Take extra time after clipping their nails to treat or play with them and make the memory fun.
Leave a comment