Many pet owners are reluctant to clip their dog’s nails because they are afraid of hurting their beloved pooch. While very active dogs or dogs that walk several miles a week might not need theirs trimmed as regularly, most do in order to keep them from getting painfully long. Luckily, if you are uncomfortable with the task, a veterinarian or groomer can often do it for you. 

The Purpose of Nail Trims

1. Prevent Accidents

Long toenails can damage your couch or other furniture when they jump on it or scratch at the door when they ask to be let out. Depending on your flooring, excessively long nails can also ding the material. If your pup eagerly greets people at the door, their nails could also hurt you or your family. 

2. Avoid Joint Problems

When a dog’s nails grow too long—so that they constantly touch the ground—it can cause pressure in the nail beds and pain in their toes. This will cause your dog to adjust its gait, which can cause permanent damage to the dog’s leg joints—and make it harder to walk or run. Keeping the toenails short prevents these issues, keeping your dog pain-free and active. 

3. Avoid Foot Injuries

In some cases, a dog’s toenails can grow so long that they curl under the foot and into the footpads, causing extreme pain. Also, the longer the nails, the more prone they are to cracking, tearing, and breaking, which can lead to infection. In fact, most broken or torn toenails require a visit to the veterinarian to prevent complications. 

Trimming your dog’s nails is only one part of keeping your four-legged friend healthy and happy. The veterinarians with A-4 Animal Hospital in Lincoln, NE, provide everything from vaccinations and general exams to treatment for chronic health issues and emergency services. To schedule an appointment, call (402) 475-2282, or visit them online for details about their team and services.