Most dog parents do not know how often to trim dog nails. So, if you are also one of them, there’s nothing to worry about! We have got you covered!
Neither pet parents nor the canine find nail trimming exciting. Nonetheless, trimming your dog‘s nails is essential since it is the most basic part of grooming your pet.
It is also an important thing you should do to help them lead a healthy lifestyle. There are several factors you should consider before deciding when to cut those nails. In this article, we shall explore some of them.
So, you can aim to gain insights on when is the best time to trim your pupper’s nails as you read on!
Factors to Consider Before Trimming Your Dog’s Nails
As with many other things related to pet grooming, trimming your canine’s paw depends on various factors. Let’s take a look at some of them below:
Nail Growth
If your dog’s nails grow rapidly and grow quite long, you will have to cut them very often. You can trim once every two to three weeks, depending on the level of growth.
Length
It is important to see how long the nails are before cutting them. If you are going to cut them, do not do so too fast or too close to the core. since it encourages them to shrink back. Hence, cut little by little and not cut short at once.
Dog’s Breed
The trimming intervals also depend on your dog’s breed since some dog breeds grow nails quicker than others. For instance, a chihuahua needs trimming more often than other larger dog breeds. Indoor dogs need more grooming than the dogs that go around outside.
Age
The older a dog gets, the less he walks. They will therefore need more trimming when they are older. Since their nails wear out very little.
Level of Activity
Dogs that walk regularly do not need more trimming. As mentioned earlier, nails get worn down during walking. So, if your pupper does not walk or play, you have to groom their nails more often.
Environmental Factors
Usually, dogs that walk on harsh surfaces such as sidewalks and asphalts require less trimming. On the other hand, dogs that walk on dirt or grass will not have as much wearing down of nails as dogs that walk on rough surfaces.
Health Condition
The growth rate of nails also depends on whether or not your dog has any medical condition. If your canine has any nail bed infections, tumors, and bed infections, it can affect their growth. Also, if they lack vitamin content in their body, it can limit their growth.
Food
What your dog eats is also a determining factor when it comes to nail growth. A balanced meal with plenty of vitamins and minerals can help your dog grow sturdy and long nails.
Perfecting the Schedule: How Often Trim Dog Nails?
On average, you will have to trim once every month. However, you can trim it once every two months if they do not grow too much.
Seeing how your furry little friend walks will give you an idea if he or she needs trimming. It is time to pick up the clippers if their paws click on the floor when they walk.
Consider all the factors mentioned above; it can help you decide on a perfect schedule. Making a schedule suitable for your pet can benefit you in many ways. You can also prepare yourself and the pupper for the trimming sessions since it is not a cakewalk.
Creating a Good Experience
Unkept nails can be hard for your canine. What’s even harder is making the trimming experience good. So, here are some tips you can follow to make your grooming sessions with your furry friend exciting!
Get Help
It is easier to cut your pet friend’s nails when someone is there to help. So, ask a family member or friend to help you. Your dog can be trimmed easily as they hold him down and keep him calm.
Handle Your Dog Early
It would be best if you did not just start holding your pupper’s paws and trim them. You should handle their paws several times earlier by gently rubbing them and rewarding them for their good behavior. Once they are used to it, you can make sure the trimming sessions go smoothly.
Visit a Pet Groomer
If you do not know how to cut your dog’s nails safely, you can go to a pet groomer. You can notice how they do it to learn the best ways to deal with your pet’s nails. Also, you can visit your vet for help for more information.
Preparation for Trimming Your Dog’s Nails
Once you figure out when to trim, you have to prepare for the sessions. In addition to some optional items, you will need a dog nail trimmer. Please take a look at your options below:
Stainless Steel Nail Trimmer
Stainless steel nail cutters are the most preferred trimmers among pet parents. You can use trimmers made from stainless steel to make sharp and clean cuts.
It would be best if you went for a cutter that has a safety guard. This guard can prevent you from accidentally clipping off too much and hurting your pupper.
Nail Cutting Rotary Grinders
You can use nail-cutting rotary grinders instead of a stainless steel trimmer if you are new to trimming dog nails. Professional pet groomers usually use these cutters since it grinds down the nails with a rotating grinder. It works like high-powered sandpaper, which makes smoother cuts.
Styptic Powder
It is also advisable to use styptic powder while cutting your dog’s nails since it helps you a lot during the process. For instance, if you unintentionally cut into your pupper’s nail and start bleeding, you can use it to stop bleeding.
What Happens if You Don’t Trim Your Dog’s Nails Regularly?
Overdue nails can raise several issues. We shall look at some of them you can avoid by trimming your canine’s nails regularly.
- Long nails can make it uneasy for your doggy to get a proper grip when they walk. It can be worse, especially if they are walking on tiles, linoleum, and wood.
- Untrimmed one can hang up on things and get torn.
- They can grow and curl into your pupper’s paw pads which can cause severe pain and infections.
- It can also be when painful when they strike the floor or pavement with each step.
- They can damage your furniture and floors.
Final Verdict
Long nails can change how your dog carries itself since it is a vital part of its anatomy. It can cause pain and worsen any existing bone conditions.
Your attitude can directly impact how your dog feels about the entire trimming session. So, make sure to keep a cheerful attitude before and while trimming your pet friend’s nails.
Now that you know how often trim dog nails, check your canine’s paws, and get ready with a trimmer!