The Importance of Regular Nail Trimming

Infection

The biggest risk of an ingrown nail is infection. Nails have dirt and germs caught under them, and this can cause a nasty infection if the nail cuts into your dog’s paw pad. While this can usually be corrected with the removal of the nail, a more serious infection may require surgical amputation of the affected toe.

Broken Nails

While nails must be pretty long to grow into the paw pad, nails that are even just a bit too long can also cause issues for your canine companion. Broken or splintered nails are common when a dog has not had his nails trimmed recently. This is painful for your dog, and broken nails are more likely to get caught on carpets or furniture.

Joint Problems

If your dog is continually walking around on nails that are too long, the pressure from the nail hitting the floor can lead to chronic pain in the toe joints. This may cause your dog to walk funny or whimper in pain while walking.

Nail trimming is scary to many dog owners, but with a little bit of practice and patience it is very easy!

• Start by getting your dog used to having his paws handled - play with and hold his paws in your hand.
• Gently apply and increase pressure to each toe joint.
• Always have treats on hand to reward your pal for being such a good sport!
• Once he or she is used to the paw handling, show him the clipper or grinder you will use and allow him to become comfortable with it - give it a few clips (not on the nail yet) so he gets used to the sound.
• The next step is the actual clipping. Firmly hold your dog's paw in your hand and don't begin unless he is calm and relaxed.
• Then, clip the nails one at a time at a 45-degree angle, avoiding the quick (the center of the nail that contains blood vessels).

If you and your dog are still too squeamish to try nail trimming at home, don't be afraid to stop by your local Wag N' Wash! We are the professional dog groomers near you that provide nail trimming and grinding.