How can you tell if a dog’s nails are too long?

Typically, you’ll notice them tapping on hard surfaces, but you can also gauge if your dog’s nails are too long using visual cues, such as the guide below.

What type of nail clippers should I use for trimming my dog’s nails?

In my opinion, I suggest using scissor or plier-type nail clippers because guillotine-style clippers can potentially crush your pet’s toe, causing significant pain.

Plier or scissor-style clippers are better suited for larger dogs and those with thicker nails. They can be more convenient and comfortable for owners as they allow cutting from various angles.

At what age can I begin trimming my puppy’s nails?

Begin trimming your puppy’s nails within the first week of bringing them home, typically starting around six weeks old. Trim their nails weekly, even if it’s just a small amount each time, to help them become accustomed to nail clipping.

Initially, there may not be much nail to trim, which is normal. Starting at a young age helps your dog become accustomed to the process of nail clipping.

How can I cut my puppy’s nails?

There are various techniques for trimming puppy nails. The key is to select a method that you feel comfortable with and that suits your dog, helping them get used to regular nail trimming.

It’s important to locate your puppy’s dew claw (often referred to as their thumb) when trimming their nails. Not all dogs have dew claws, and they may be present on all paws, just the front paws, or not at all. Regular trimming is crucial for dew claws to prevent them from growing into the skin and causing issues.

You can start trimming your puppy’s nails within a few days of bringing them home. This helps manage their sharp claws and familiarizes them with the nail trimming process. While clipping their nails, ensure to hold and comfort them. For very small puppies, a small animal clipper is often the most suitable tool.

The Key to Cutting Puppy Nails:

The important tip for trimming puppy nails (which also applies as they grow older) is to trim small amounts at a time. As your puppy’s nails thicken (usually around 12 weeks of age), you may want to transition to using a nail grinder or dog nail scissors.

How to dull puppy nails?

Anyone who has owned or currently owns a puppy understands their sharpness, but fortunately, you can soften their nails by using a nail file. Take an emery board, metal, or glass nail file and gently rub it back and forth over your puppy’s nails until the tips are smooth and blunted.