Trimming Nails
Keeping nails trimmed allows dogs to walk easily on different types of surfaces and helps to ensure good foot development in young dogs. When your dog's nails are at the correct length, they will barely touch the ground when he walks. Because most dogs do not enjoy nail clipping, the goal is to minimize discomfort and to make trimming as painless as possible:
- Hold one paw gently but firmly and press gently on the pad of one toe so that the nail extends. With your clippers, cut off just the thin "hook" at the end of the nail. Do not attempt to cut too deeply as this will be painful to your dog and can cause the nail to bleed.
- Praise using a quiet, gentle tone of voice and give a treat. Continue with the remaining nails and feet only if your dog is tolerating the handling. For many dogs, it is helpful to start with just one or two nails a day.
- You may occasionally cut too close and hit the quick, or vein that runs down the center of the nail. If the nail starts to bleed, place some styptic powder on the end of the nail and hold the toe immobile until the bleeding stops. (It is important to avoid cutting the quick because this pain will soon make nail cutting a very unpleasant experience for your dog)!
Some dogs still have their dewclaws. These are the small “extra” toes that are located on the inside of the front (and sometimes back) legs. The nails on dewclaws should also be kept short and trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth and impaction into the toe.
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