Nailed It! The Importance Of Clipping Your Dog's Nails

From bathing and training to exercising and vaccinating, it is easy to see how caring for your dog can be overwhelming at times. Some tasks will probably feel like priorities, but you should never lose sight of other tasks that will help your dog be healthy and happy. Clipping nails is usually at the bottom of your list of priorities, but skipping this task can cause a great deal of distress. If you have a puppy, you should trim their nails once a week. Older dogs require a nail trimming every two weeks. With this guide, you will understand the importance of nail trimming for your dog's health and wellness.

Walking Difficulties

If your dog's nails are too long, they will not be able to walk correctly. The longer or haphazard nails will place extra strain on your dog's legs, decreasing their ability to walk straight, while also causing muscle tension that leads to pain and discomfort.

Dogs who are unable to walk and run will also have an increased risk of weight gain, leading to further medical conditions such as arthritis and heart disease.

Pain and Discomfort

Strain in the legs is painful, but the longer nails can also become painful on their own.

Excessively long or abnormally shaped nails can tear, which is painful. In addition, torn nails have a higher risk of a painful infection.

Without efficient treatment, the infection can spread through your dog's bloodstream, becoming dangerous and life-threatening.

Ingrown Nails

If you do not cut your dog's nails regularly, they may begin to grow into the bottom of their foot. Known as an ingrown nail, this problem causes swelling and painful inflammation that will most likely become infected, as well.

In some instances, the swelling and pain can be so severe, your dog will be unable to walk even for a short distance.

Trimming 101

Preventing the dangers of long nails is possible with regular trimming. Thankfully, this process does not have to be challenging.

Be sure to use sharp nail trimmers specifically designed for use on dogs. Have a supply of small treats on hand to reward your dog through the trimming process. These treats will also help associate happiness with the process of clipping their nails, which will reduce anxiety in the future.

Use your hands to hold one toe securely. Slide the nail clipper over the nail, making sure there is no hair or skin in the clipper's path. Then, use one swift motion to clip the nail without twisting your dog's toe.

Consider trimming the nails after bathing your dog. This will make the process easier because the nails will be softer.

Your dog's nails deserve regular care. To learn more about the health of their nails or for assistance, contact your veterinarian today, such as at After Hours Veterinary Emergency Clinic Inc.

About Me

Pet Care 101: Tips For Pet Owners

Growing up in a house full of animals, I developed a love for caring for them all. I knew that working as a veterinarian would be too emotionally difficult for me to do. However, that didn't stop me from dedicating my adult life to learning all I could about animal care and treatment. Not only did that knowledge help me to take care of my own animals, it also made it easier to help my friends and family with their pets as well. I decided to create this blog to help others learn what I know. I hope the information here helps you to take better care of your pets.

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