The Best Way to Trim Your Dog’s Nails
Trimming your dog’s nails is important for dog health because long toenails can cause pain, put pressure on the toe joints, or force the toe to twist. Wild dogs would wear them down naturally, unlike household pets. While your canine may occasionally go outside using a dog door, a different approach to grooming and hygiene is required.
Tools Needed
Scissor-type clippers should be used. Small ones are best unless your dog is a giant breed. Use a nail file to remove jagged edges and hangnails. Although an electric nail grinder can be used, many dogs don’t like the sound.
Preparing Your Dog for a Nail Clipping
Dogs generally don’t like their sensitive feet touched, let alone their nails clipped. Using treats and praise, start with having your puppy sniff the nail clipper. The next day, touch it gently to each paw. When the dog seems comfortable enough, trim just a tiny piece of nail; each day, do a little more at a time.
Steps to Clipping Your Dog’s Nails
For a proper trimming:
- Hold the paw firmly with your thumb on the toe pad and forefinger just above the nail.
- Extend the nail by pushing your thumb up and backward, and your forefinger forward.
- Cut the tip of the nail straight across or from underneath at a 45° angle.
While cutting, don’t go past the curve of the nail. The pink area, or quick, contains blood vessels and nerves.
How to Stop Bleeding
If you cut the quick, the bleeding should stop in about five minutes. A styptic pencil, with silver nitrate, can help, while styptic powder can stop bleeding and prevent infections. Otherwise, you can use a bar of soap, cornstarch, or a bandage, along with pressure, to spur clotting.
Bonus Tips
- Trim your dog’s nails every three to six weeks.
- Use scissors (with blunt edges) to cut excess toe hair.
- Never squeeze a dog’s toes.
- On dark nails, a chalky white ring denotes the quick.
- If you cut the quick, offer a treat right away.
These dog care tips should help keep your pet’s nails healthy. For wall mount, screen, or microchip dog doors in different sizes, shop at Australia Pet Doors. Call +61-437-644-330 if you need assistance.