Most dog parents know that clipping their pup’s nails can be a tricky process. Golden Heart Boarding & Grooming shares that many of their clients feel nervous about this routine dog grooming and are often unsure of when to stop trimming. While walking on hard surfaces — like concrete and asphalt — helps wear down nails, regular trims are still important. These North Pole, AK, dog grooming experts explain why.

Dog Grooming Pros Share 3 Reasons to Trim Dog Nails

1. Long Nails Can Be Painful

Your dog’s nails should never be long enough to constantly touch the ground. Walking or running will force it back into the nail bed, which is very painful for your pup.

2. Long Nails Put Pressure on Joints

Excessively long nails can also morph your pup’s paws over time. It puts pressure on the toe joint, which can realign the joints of the foreleg over time and make your furry friend’s foot look flattened and splayed.

3. Nail Trimming Improves Walking & Running

When your dog’s nails are too long, they’ll try to compensate by changing the way they walk or run. This constant adaptation can make their legs or feet sore and cause their natural movement to be misaligned. This can also lead to injuries down the road.

Nail Trimming Advice from a Pet Groomer

How do you know when it’s time to cut your pup’s nails? Golden Heart Boarding & Grooming shares that if you can hear your dog’s nails clack when they walk on hard surfaces, it’s time for a trim.

These pet grooming experts advise owners to avoid cutting directly against the dog’s nail. Instead, cut the sides of the nails and gradually angle it backward. Make sure you don’t accidentally cut the quick, which is a collection of blood vessels and nerves. This can be extremely painful for your pup and cause excessive bleeding.

The key to successful pet grooming is knowledge and your dog’s comfort. If the idea of cutting your dog’s nails makes you nervous, bring them to Golden Heart Boarding & Grooming. These pet groomers offer walk-in nail trims, haircuts, and shampoos. They also offer a doggy daycare for busy owners. Learn more about their dog grooming services online or by calling (907) 488-6866 today.