Pet parents consider nail care a dreaded basic grooming task. Most dogs don’t like having their paws manipulated to begin with, so adding weird body contortions and equipment that has the potential to hurt can turn what should be a simple process into a nightmare.
“Some dogs fear restraint and some have had bad experiences and felt pain during nail trimming,” says professional dog trainer Lori Nanan. “These things can make nail care stressful and difficult.”
Keeping your dog’s nails the right length isn’t just for aesthetics or keeping the floor clean, it prevents pain and even injury. Nails that are too long can lead to uneven weight distribution, splayed feet, mobility issues, and in extreme cases the nail can even grow into the pad of the paw.
Dogs that spend more time outdoors may wear down their nails naturally, but most dogs need regular nail trimming to keep them at a comfortable length.
While an important part of nail cutting success is the training that takes place before you even make your first cut, choosing the best equipment for the job can help alleviate some of the stress for both parties. Parent pet groomers who are comfortable with the trimming tool will feel more confident in the task, and that sense of calm will translate to your dog.
Dog Nail Clippers: Understanding the Basics
Choosing the right dog nail clippers can seem overwhelming since you are choosing for two parties. You want a tool that’s comfortable and easy to use, but you also need to consider the size and type of claw your dog has.
“Don’t skimp on quality,” suggests Nanan. “Look at the products groomers use to get an idea of what’s considered the best.”
Keep in mind that dog nail trimming equipment can dull over time, so if you’re investing in a more expensive product, make sure you’ll be able to keep the blade sharp. A dull clipper can put extra pressure on the nail, which will make trimming even more uncomfortable. Also, it might leave a jagged edge on the nails.
So how do you know if your dog needs a nail trim? If you hear your dog coming towards you, it’s probably too long. Nanan says trimming nails until they’re “just above the ground” keeps your dog’s paws comfortable while still allowing for traction.
The difference between dog and cat nail clippers
The difference between dog and cat nail clippers may have to do with marketing.
“Most can be used interchangeably between dogs and cats,” says Caitlin Kucsan, professional groomer and owner of Pugs & Kisses Pet Care. “However, the scissor style seems to work best on cat nails because they’re generally much less difficult to cut than a dog’s.”
Go for a smaller size when choosing a cat nail clipper to avoid over-trimming.
