Long nails can cause several serious problems in dogs, so make sure to take care of your pet's nails with the best dog nail clippers.
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What are the best dog nail clippers in 2024?
Like human nails, dogs' nails are constantly growing. So if they're not worn down enough on the ground, they need regular trims. Browse our buying guide to find the perfect dog nail clippers!
Long nails can cause several serious problems in dogs, such as bad posture, poor spinal development, and even lameness. That's why it's crucial to trim your dog's nails as soon as you hear them clicking on the ground. Usually, dogs' nails wear down as the pet runs and exercises. But older or sick dogs don't have the opportunity to give their nails the necessary wear.
Opt for easy-to-handle dog nail clippers with sharp blades to ensure that grooming goes as smoothly as possible. Slide the nail into the space provided before cutting. Complete your dog's first amenity kit with a practical dog nail clipper. That will allow you to groom your pet gently, without frightening them. It could become a bonding moment! Our comparison will help you choose the best model.
Summary
Why is it important to trim your dog's nails?
Like human nails, dog claws grow constantly. Suppose they have not been sufficiently worn down by contact with the ground, for example, in older dogs who don't get much exercise. In that case, it is essential to trim them regularly. Excessively long claws can lead to many more or less severe problems.
First of all, it is a nuisance for the dog, which may have difficulty moving correctly. With longer claws, the dog distributes its weight differently and adopts an abnormal posture, leading to spinal problems in the long run. Nails that are too long cause difficulty in walking and can lead to severe lameness.
In general, excessively long nails considerably deteriorate a dog's quality of life.
How do I clean my dog's nails?
To clean your dog's nails, use suitable wipes. Clean both the pads and the nails every time you return from a walk to remove mud and dust.
You can also wash your pet's paws regularly with soap and water. This routine will clean the claws and ensure that there are no foreign objects trapped between the pads.
After trimming, clean the paws with a small compress to remove any nail residue.
When should I trim my dog's nails?
If you hear a clicking sound on the floor as soon as your dog walks, your pet's nails are too long. They should not touch the ground!
When your dog is standing or sitting with its front legs on the ground, their claws should not touch the ground either. If they do, it's time to trim them.
The nails are also too long when they start to turn sideways. That usually happens when the nails are so long that they can no longer grow towards the ground.
If your pet injures itself by biting off half a claw, it is also best to trim it to allow the wound to heal slowly.
How should I trim my dog's nails?
To properly trim your dog's overgrown nails, use dog nail clippers or small dog nail scissors. If your dog has dark nails and you can't see the blood vessel in the nail, you can also use an electric light. It's a good idea to prepare a balm to massage your dog's paws and pads. Stroke your dog to relax them and show them the different tools you are going to use. That will reassure them.
To prevent your dog's nails from bleeding, make sure you have a clear view of the area to be trimmed. It is essential to know that dogs' nails are supplied with blood up to a certain point. Therefore, it would be best to cut the damaged nail bellow this point so as not to injure the animal. If possible, cut the nail parallel to the nail base so that it grows back correctly.
Do dog nails grow back?
Dogs' nails are constantly growing. That's why they should be trimmed regularly, without damaging the nail pulp.
If your pet breaks a nail, it will grow back as if you had cut it.
But if your dog tears a claw while playing, it may not grow back. It all depends on how the nail was torn off.
Remember: if you see your dog limping or licking its paw, check their nails right away. They may have injured themselves and need a visit to the vet. As a first step, consider disinfecting the area. If there is blood, this will help you assess the severity of the injury.
How do you take care of your dog's nails?
If you cut too short and your dog's nail starts to bleed, don't panic. The blood may shock you, but it's most likely a superficial wound, and you have to keep a level head to treat your pet well. Apply a sterile compress to the claw to stop the bleeding. You can also dip the injured paw in styptic powder. Disinfect and let it air dry.
To keep your dog's nails in good condition, you can file them from time to time. That will save you the need to trim them.
