Grooming is a critical aspect of pet care, keeping your dog’s appearance neat and healthy. Nail trimming is an integral part of grooming that should be done regularly to protect your pet’s paws. Below is a guide to the effects of leaving your dog’s nails untrimmed and how you can clip them at home.

Why It’s Important to Trim a Dog’s Nails 

Sharp nails on dogs can be a hassle to their owners, as they can scratch flooring, scrape skin when they jump on you, or tear holes in clothes or furniture. More importantly, however, long nails can impact your dog’s health. When nails aren’t cut as part of regular pet care, they apply pressure to your dog’s toes, paws, and legs when they walk. This can be uncomfortable for your pup, and if the nails grow long enough, your dog may start chewing them. This can lead to splintering and infections in the nail’s quick. Over time, the pressure long nails cause can make your dog’s toes splay outward, leading to permanent deformity and damaged tendons that cause discomfort while walking.

How to Do It Safely

You can choose to either use dog nail trimmers to clip the nails or use a pet-safe nail grinder for a smoother approach. If you use clippers, there’s a higher risk of cutting into the quick, so err on the side of caution. Cut the nails at an angle that aligns with their natural shape. When using a dog-approved nail grinder, follow the instructions carefully. Your dog will let you know if you get too close to the quick, and they may pull away. Hold them steady to get a more precise trimming. If your dog is resistant to trimming or you’re worried you’ll cut the quick, you may need to get the help of a veterinarian or professional groomer.

Do you need someone experienced in pet care to trim your dog’s nails? The veterinarians at Dykes Veterinary Clinic in Foley, AL, have provided comprehensive pet care since 1989. Their services include pet vaccines, diagnostic testing, walk-ins, and emergency appointments, with flexible scheduling and a compassionate team. Learn more about their services like pet vaccines and nail trimming online, and call (251) 943-3211 for an appointment.