Start cutting the nails of puppies within the first week of bringing them home, usually at about six weeks old, then repeat this every week, even if only a small amount. This would accustom them to nail clipping. The reason you want to begin so early is to let your dog get used to this process. Nail trimming as a routine from an early age not only makes a better dog owner but can also help prevent arthritis and mobility issues in later life.
Why Do Dogs Need Their Nails Cut?
It is very important that you keep your dog’s nails trimmed. Splitting or cracking may occur when they become too long leading to infections. They are also hurting the feet and toes that causes excessive strain on their legs. How frequently you trim your pet’s nails will depend on his lifestyle and breed and age as well. Walking on hard surfaces like pavement can help wear down their nails naturally but this might not be enough for older dogs or those who prefer softer ground.
How To Cut Your Dog’s Nails at Home
In this piece we will take on the dreaded home nail trim, why it’s vital for your pooch to have these regular trims done.Clippers don’t remove “one single chunk” of nail at once; rather they sheer off tiny slices of it.The paw should be held tightly but gently while taking off tiny amounts of the nail until one reaches where he/she sees blood (the quick). Guillotine clippers should be avoided as they can crush toes hence cause pain.
Recognizing When Nails Are Too Long
Ordinarily, you will hear them clicking against a hard surface, however you could also verify whether their nails are too lengthy by visual cues. These could include seeing the nails touch the ground: If they do, that means they’re too long and need trimming.If you hear your canine friend’s claws click-clacking on your laminate or hardwood floors, this is also a sign that they’re too long.
What to Do If You Hit the Quick
When you catch the quick, every dog owner’s worst nightmare. We all do it at some point, but I promise you, your dog will survive! In order to stop the bleeding from the nail, have a styptic pencil or powder that clot blood on hand. If you do happen to hit the quick, put pressure with a clean cloth and use a styptic pencil to halt the flow of blood.
Safely Trimming Black Nails
The quick is not visible in those annoying black nails making them hard to cut. Take little slices off the nail tip using nail grinder and look at the inside of it. When there’s much black and very little white left stop. You’ve gone deep into pulp and are just about to cut through into the quick.
Making Dog’s Nail Clipping a Positive Experience
As such, start handling your puppy legs and cutting their nails when young so that they get used to the process. Give them treats after each nail clip so they can associate it with being positive. In case your dog doesn’t like its nails being done, try to handle your dog paws regularly and rub the clippers on its paws on a regular basis without really using them. Over time, patience and positive reinforcement can go a long way in reducing anxiety in dogs.
Why You Should Maintain Your Dog’s Nails
Howevern, regular nail maintenance is more than just for cosmetics; long nails are able to turn a sound paw into a splayed foot which will reduce traction. For an extended period of time they may cause deformed feet as well as damage the tendons too. As the long nail hits the ground, this pressure puts force on foot and leg structure. This helps you maintain your dog’s overall comfort by sticking to a trimming routine regularly.