For some dogs, nail trimming is a frightening and nerve-wracking experience, while others don’t seem to mind. Here is a basic how-to for comfortably and effectively giving your pooch a manicure!
There are several reasons why your dog’s nails need to be trimmed. The first reason is that if a dog’s nails are too long, he will begin to experience discomfort and soreness when he walks or runs. Sometimes untrimmed nails can even lead to problems in your pet’s paws or legs later on in life. If you hear a slight scratching noise as your dog walks on the floor, deck, or driveway, it means their nails are too long and it’s time for trimming!
Some dogs do not mind having their nails trimmed, while others may throw a fit. Sometimes the most docile pet will wiggle, scratch, or even bite when it comes time to trim nails. First, it is recommended that you take your pet to a groomer or the vet so you can get a feel for your pet’s reaction to nail trimming. This way, you will also be able to watch and get tips on trimming for the future.
There are a few calming tactics you can use to help your dog. First, you will want to start slowly. You may want to take a few days to simply pull your dog on your lap (obviously depending on its size!) or next to you on the couch and simply hold their paws in your hand, and gently massage their feet. By doing this, you are familiarizing your pet with the feel of your hands touching their paws. Next, when you decide to bring out the clippers, you may want to start by trimming only a few nails at a time, depending on your pup’s reaction. Many people choose to do a paw a day.
When trimming your dog’s nails, you will need to use trimmers that are specially designed for doggies. Scissors and human clippers are a big no-no, as these may harm your pet and won’t work effectively. When you trim your dog’s nails, you will want to gently hold their paw in your hand; do this is a quiet, non-distracting setting so upsets can be minimal.
Next, you will want to cut your pup’s nail about 2 mm (millimeters) below the quick. The quick is the part inside your dog’s nail that contains nerve endings and the blood supply. If you accidentally cut the quick, you and your pet will know it! In light-colored nails, the quick is normally visible and clipping is not very difficult. When your dog has dark-colored nails, you will want to trim conservatively. Go ahead and trim right below where the nail begins to curve downward. If you should happen to cut the quick, you can either place corn starch powder (a household blood clotter) or a styptic pencil, which is medicated and contains blood clotting chemicals in it. The bleeding should stop easily within 5 minutes.
Once you are all finished, go ahead and give your doggie a treat or two in praise for their good behavior. Dog’s nails should be trimmed about every 2 weeks, so make sure you keep up with it. And remember, if trimming your dog’s nails is too daunting for you, or if you simply don’t feel comfortable doing it, your local vet or pet groomer will be more than happy to do it for you. Good luck!
Article provided by Pet Super Store a site featuring: Garmin Astro 220, electric dog fence and shock collars.
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