What Tools Are Safe to Use on Your Dog’s Nails?

Dogs go out almost every single day. Their daily activities result in their nails coming into contact with bacteria, parasites, and many other harmful pollutants. As a dog owner, you must ensure that your canine best friend has shiny and clean nails. Luckily, we are here to talk about all of the details of cleaning your dog’s nails. From a dog nail dremel to clippers, there are multiple options out there. Let’s find out which one is best for your pet.

Why Keep Your Dog’s Nails Clean?

First, you need to know why dogs require so much nail care and hygiene. Here are some reasons:

Easier walking

Dogs that always have freshly trimmed nails do not feel any pressure or discomfort when walking. Longer nails reduce friction, which makes walking uncomfortable. Next time your pup acts out on a walk, consider checking their nail length.

Blocks parasites

Longer nails have more chances of being exposed to germs and bacteria. Nail contamination makes the dog’s body vulnerable to various diseases and health issues. A sick dog is lethargic, avoids food, and stops being productive and active. These are all signs that their nails need a bit more care.

Tools for Your Dog’s Nails

Confused about which tools to buy for your dog’s nails? Here are the most important ones:

Clippers

You’ll need to cut the nails into a shorter length before filing them evenly. Using your standard human nail cutter on dog nails is nearly impossible. Dog nail clippers are sturdier, with blades designed to match the hardness of the canine nail. They are thicker and cut the nails in one go.

You can find scissors and guillotine clippers in the market. Scissors are conventional and straightforward to use. Contrarily, guillotine clippers require you to insert the nail first and then cut the nail. These clippers are best suited to small dogs that are easy to control.

Grinder

Also known as a dog nail dremel, this tool removes the dead build-up from the nails. A dremel offers better control over their nails and reduces the risk of overworking them. Grinders are suitable for dogs of all sizes. It also files the edges and makes the nail much more accessible and easy to maintain.

How to Safely Trim Dog Nails

It can take a while to get your dog accustomed to the nail trimming process. Start off by letting them smell the tools. Take your dog to a quiet place without any distractions for better obedience and fewer chances of injuries.

Hold the dog in your lap or make someone else hold them for you. Hold the pet’s paw firmly, but without causing any pain. Make sure that their paw does not move. Press the paw down a little to reveal the nails. Start clipping or grinding them. Your dog may react a bit because of the dremel sound but do not let go of them.

Look for the nail’s natural curve to avoid damaging any blood vessels that might be in the nails. Leave the length a little longer, instead of cutting too close to the nail base. Dog nails grow quickly. Clip and file them once a month to maintain shape. Apart from filing, give your fur babies regular baths, so their nails remain clean.

Conclusion

Dogs with longer nails might feel uncomfortable and be exposed to diseases. Tools like clippers and dremels are suitable for dog owners who do not have the time to visit the vet. It takes a while to get your pup accustomed to this new ritual. But once they become familiar with it, you can easily file their nails and keep your fur baby clean.