Why Keeping Your Dog’s Nails Trimmed is Essential for Health and Safety

Maintaining Your Pup’s Nails Shouldn’t be an Afterthought

It’s not about pampering; trimming your dog’s nails is essential to keeping your pup healthy. Without regular nail trimming, your pet can experience pain and discomfort from increased pressure when walking, running, or playing. This can also cause mobility issues, especially in older dogs, due to a lack of traction on hard surfaces such as tile or wood flooring. Additionally, long nails can cause discomfort and even pain for your pet if they get stuck in carpets or furniture. Other dangers of not tending to their nails are infection and ingrown nails.

According to the ASPCA, a dog needs a nail trim when their toenails “just about touch the ground when the walk.” When you hear the click, click, click on the floor or get scratched one too many times, it’s time! All dogs are different, but on average they should be trimmed about once a month.

Can You and Should You Trim Your Dog’s Nails at Home?

DIY nail trimming is an option if done correctly and safely. You must feel self-confident, especially if your dog is jittery or anxious. The right tools are essential, such as clippers designed specifically for dogs. You must understand the anatomy of your pet’s feet so that you don’t accidentally cut into the quick (the part with nerve endings that supplies blood to the nail). If you snip too close and accidentally cut into the quick, your dog will experience immense pain and bleeding, increasing the chance of infection. You know how it feels when you’re clipping your nails and you accidently trim too far and hit the cuticle? The pain is awful. If this happens with your pup, it’s not going to be next impossible for them to trust you to trim their nails the next time around.

Leaving Trimming and Grinding to the Professionals

Many pet owners opt to leave nail trimming to a professional to avoid injury and reduce stress on you and their pet. Trained pet techs and groomers can ensure the nails are correctly shaped because of their experience, confidence, and correct tools. The process is fast, inexpensive, and anxiety-free.

Stop in your local The Dog Stop to schedule your pup for a nail trim or grind. With regular, professional trimming, you can be sure your pup’s paws will remain healthy and comfortable. It’s one less hassle you’ll have to worry about in life.