Nail trimming for a dog is one of those grooming practices that often make pet parents anxious. However, when you learn about it thoroughly, nail trimming becomes an easy thing to do. In this article, we will describe this procedure step by step.
The Need for Trimming the Nails of Your Dog
Not only does long nails spoil the look of your pet but they can also affect your dog’s gait and cause discomfort in the joints, and in severe cases, the nails can grow into the pad of your dog’s paw. The proper trimming can definitely keep you away from all these hassles.
How Frequently Does Your Dog’s Nail Needs Trimming?
Generally, the trimming of nails is done once in 3-4 weeks for dogs. Dogs that walk on the pavement more frequently have nails that become shorter by themselves compared to indoor or soft-ground dogs.
Equipment Required for Dog Nail Trimming
- Guillotine or scissors-type clippers depending on the thickness of your pet’s nails
- A nail file or nail grinder
- Syptitic powder (in case of blood)
- Treats
Dog Nail Trimming – A Step-by-Step Process
- Prepare your pet mentally. Touch their paws often not to create stress during nail trimming.
- Localize the quick. The pink part located inside the nail with blood vessels and nerve endings should not be cut.
- Make cuts piece-meal. Small cuts are preferable than one large cut, especially when the nails are dark-colored. Shape the nail according to its natural form in an angled fashion.
- Work on smoothing out the nail using the nail file if necessary.
- Use treats to reward the animal after each right action performed.
What to Do If You Cut the Quick Accidentally?
It may occur even to a very experienced groomer. In case of any bleeding, you need to use styptic powder (cornstarch can also be used). Apply some pressure and within a couple of minutes everything will go back to normal.
Tips for Nervous Dogs
- Trim nails one or two at a time without making your pet undergo the whole nail trimming process.
- Use tasty treats when doing so.
- Stay relaxed, because dogs tend to notice anxiety of their owners.
- Instead of clippers, you can use a nail grinder.
Conclusion
Dog nail trimming can easily become a non-stressful procedure when it becomes routine and done regularly. If you know what equipment you will need and do everything patiently, you will see how easy it is.
To learn more grooming tips, visit our puppy training tips page.
If you feel confused about the procedure or your pet has black nails that make it hard for you to find the quick, do not hesitate to turn to professionals.
