Dog Nail Trimming Part II

One of the most viewed of our videos is our series on trimming your dogs nails. Yes, we’re also shooting a video on how to trim your cats nails! One question that I hear frequently at the animal hospital is “how often should I trim my dog or cats nails?”

First, we need to understand why it is important to trim your dog or cats nails. I’ve seen some dogs that are brought in that have nails that haven’t been trimmed in a very long time and are actually curling back around into their paw! Obviously for health reasons, this is not a good thing. That’s why reason why you want to trim your dog or cats nails: Health.

If your pets nails are overgrown, they can quickly develop other problems with their hip or back. Bone and joint problems are also common in dogs that have been neglected. Ingrown nails can lead to bleeding, infections and it’s all downhill from their.

Trimming nails does not have to be traumatic experience for your dog or cat. Frequently it’s as traumatic for a pet owner as it is for a dog or cat. As I mention in my videos, you should get your dog used to having his feet touched. This is one of the biggest obstacles…many simply don’t like it…so the sooner that you can get them used to their paws being touched, gently squeezed or groomed, the easier it will be to trim them.

Many owners are reluctant to clip their dog or cats nails. Either they have never attempted to trim their dog or cats nails, attempted but ended up nicking the quick (the blood vessel running through part of the nail) and the dog bled. This can be traumatic for both you and the dog or cat. And of course, the minute they see you with the clippers again, they'll clear out of the room. Which is understandable. Particular if you have a dog or cat that doesn't like to have his/her feet handled.

Some like clippers. Some like grinders/sanders (Dremmel). I use both. I use the clippers to take off the majority of what I'm trimming, then use the sander to smooth out the sharp edges. I say use what is comfortable and if you are comfortable trimming their nails, I recommend having your vet do it.

Of course, getting back to the question: How often? Depends on your dog or cat and what they walk on. Dogs in New York City rarely get their nails trimmed (assuming they're allowed to walk outside on the concrete). Holding all things constant, I would say a general rule of thumb would be every 4 weeks.

Have a great day and keep wagging!