Grooming: Nails

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Some dogs need a nail trim every month or so; others can go for several months without little or no trimming, usually because they do a lot of walking and running on hard surfaces.

Without trimming, nails can quickly become ingrown or long enough to make walking uncomfortable. Long nails snag easily on carpet, upholstery, and even your clothes. Snags can lead to a tear, an injury that can be bloody as well as painful.

One of the main reasons dogs don't get regular nail trims is because owners are afraid to do the job. They fear cutting into the "quick," or nail bed. This sensitive, pink area at the base of each nail is full of nerves and blood vessels and will bleed profusely if cut. But if you know how to go about it, you can care for your dog's nails yourself.

How to trim your dog's nails

Aim for your dog's nails to be close to touching the ground, or just a bit higher.

1. Always use a nail clipper designed for dogs. Human nail clippers don't work well, because dogs' nails aren't flat like ours.

2. Arrange yourself and your dog comfortably. Some dogs will sit right down in your lap for a nail trim. But you can also sit on the floor next to your pup during the procedure.

4. Reassure your dog. Even if he doesn't seem nervous, talking to him in a soft, calm voice will help make nail trimming more pleasant for both of you.

5. Hold each paw as you work and spread the toes. Be careful to stay away from the quick, which is easier to cut into than you think. The quick is the end of the toe's blood vessel, so if you cut the quick, the toe will bleed.

6. Trim dewclaws. If your dog has dewclaws, which are remnants of fifth toes, you'll need to trim those too. Look for them high on the inside of each foot. Not all dogs have them; in many breeds, it is common for dewclaws to be removed shortly after birth. These can get torn easily in  [Continued]