Basics of Nail Clipping: Dog's Pedicure

For those of us with hardwood or tile floors in the home, it's a familiar sound. Once we can hear this sound it's time for every dog's least favorite thing... Having their nails clipped.

Now, let's be honest.  Many dogs HATE having their nails clipped. They'll fuss while pulling their paws away and occasionally use their teeth to protest as well!  But no matter how much your dog may disagree, keeping your dog's nails short is an important part of a regular grooming routine. Longer nails over time can negatively affect your dog's gait and damage bone structure in the feet. In extreme cases, nails can grow long enough to curl back around into the pads of the feet.  

Long nails are more than unsightly – they present a potential health problem. The nail of dog is very strong and has a tendency to grow in a slight downward curve. Unattended nails may grow long enough long to cause the entire tendon and bone structure of the foot and pastern to weaken.

Needless to say, both of these possibilities are extremely painful but can be easily avoided by regular clipping. Depending on how often your dog walks or runs on the pavement (which wears down the nail naturally), their nails should be addressed either via clipping or filing every 4-6 weeks.

For the Professionals and DIY'ers

The most important thing you'll need is a good pair of nail clippers. There are a few different styles to choose from, but I recommend and use scissor style clippers.  This style of clipper gives you the most leverage and control. 

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