Some dogs require a trim of their nails every few months; others may go several months with little or no trimming. This is usually because the dog does a lot of walking and Running on hard surfaces.
Most dogs require regular nail trimming. If the nails are too long, it can be difficult for your dog to walk and cause painful snags, tears, and blood.
If you don’t trim your nails, they can grow ingrown or become so long that walking becomes uncomfortable. Long nails can easily catch on carpets, upholstery, and clothes.
Fear of doing the job is the primary reason pet owners don’t trim their dogs’ nails regularly. They are afraid to cut into the “quick,” which is the nail bed. This pink, sensitive area is full of blood vessels and nerves at the base of each nail. If cut, it will bleed profusely.
You can take care of your dog’s nails yourself if you have the right knowledge.
How to Trim Your Dog’s Nails
It’s time to trim your dog’s hair if you can hear its nails snagging on the carpet or hard floors.
Trim your dog’s nail so that it is close to the ground or just slightly higher.
This step-by-step tutorial can help you start:
1. You should touch their paws frequently, even if you are not trimming their nails. This will help them to become accustomed to the feeling. Treats will help them form a positive association with being touched on the paws. The sooner you begin to do this, the more they will feel comfortable.
2. Use a dog-specific nail clipper. The nails of dogs are not flat like those of humans. Scissors are also dangerous.
3. You can sit comfortably on the floor with your dog during the procedure.
4. Assure your dog.
Spread the toes and hold each paw while you work. Stay away from the quick. It is much easier to cut than you might think. If you cut through the quick of the toe, it will bleed.
6. You’ll also need to trim the dewclaws. These are the remnants of a dog’s fifth toes. You can find them on the inner side of each foot. Dewclaws are not present in all breeds of dogs. In many cases, they are removed soon after birth. They can be easily torn in the field, and they are painful.
7. After you finish, reward your dog with its favorite treat. Also, praise them for their cooperation. This will make them more willing to cooperate the next time.
How to Treat an Injured Toenail
You’ll know if you have clipped the quick of the nails: your dog is likely to yell in pain and will start bleeding.
Use pressure or dab some nail styptic, which works as a coagulant to stop bleeding. One of the most popular brands is Kwik-Stop. It’s often available in pet shops and veterinarian offices.
You can also try dipping the toe into flour if you do not have any styptic. You can also stop bleeding by pressing a clean, dry cloth on the nail for 5 minutes.
Apply pressure immediately with a clean cloth or a handful of gauze; if your dog tears a nail before you have a chance clip it.
Once you have stopped the bleeding, wash the paw in warm soapy water and examine the wound. If the nail has been torn and you are comfortable clipping your dog’s nails, then you can clip the damaged portion.
Why You Should Hire Professionals
Take your dog to the veterinarian to determine if the nail should be removed. The vet will numb that area before the procedure because it can be painful to remove a nail.
