Although you may love a pedicure, trimming your pal’s nails is not always their favorite activity. However, keeping your pal’s nails at a healthy length is essential. So, how often should you clip your dog’s nails? Read below to learn more!
Frequency Of Trims
If possible, trimming your pup’s nails weekly or bi-weekly is best. The more frequently you cut your pal’s nails, the more the quick will recede. The quick is the section of your dog’s nail that contains blood vessels and nerves. The more the quick is receded, the shorter you can trim their nails.
A good rule of thumb is that your companion’s nails should not touch the ground when standing. So, getting into the routine of trimming your pup’s nails as frequently as needed would be best to achieve this.
Other Factors
Depending on the surfaces your pal spends most of their time on will affect how often they need their nails trimmed. The harder the surface, the more their nails will wear down, and the less frequently they will have to cut. For example, asphalt and concrete are surfaces that will wear down the nails. Carpet, grass, or laying on the couch will not wear the nails down and will require trimming more frequently.
Additionally, certain activities will wear the nails down. This includes digging, agility, or other activities. Also, if your pal is fed a nutritious and balanced diet, their nails will be stronger and less brittle. Specific vitamins and minerals will also affect the growth rate of your companion’s nails. So, pay attention to their nails and trim them as needed.
What Happens When Nails Are Too Long?
Not only are long nails painful, but they also provide your companion with less traction when walking on slick surfaces. When your pal’s nails are long enough to touch the ground, it can be painful to take a step. Additionally, this affects your canine’s posture, leading to joint pain and inflammation. Also, long nails can get caught, torn off, or split and expose the quick, which can lead to infection. However, long nails are dangerous to you too! Uncut nails can cut into your skin or even damage your floors and furniture. So, keep up with your four-legged friend’s nail trimming!
What If The Nails Are Too Short?
Your pal’s nails are too short if you cut into the quick. The quick is the nerve endings and blood supply within their nails. This is more likely to happen if your pup squirms or if they have black nails. If you cut into the quick, have something such as a towel to stop the bleeding. You can also use a clotting powder or first aid kit as another way to stop the bleeding. Cut a little at a time to avoid this, and keep your pal calm during trimming sessions. You can always continue trimming but can’t add their nails back on! Also, cut the nail at the correct angle to avoid the quick.
Remember to trim your pal’s nails regularly and keep them short enough, so they do not touch the ground when standing. This task is essential to grooming that ensures your companion stays happy and healthy!