If trimming your pup’s nails causes anxiety in both you and your dog, you should try grinding. This tool can assist you in keeping your dog’s nails clean and trimmed on a budget. Plus, there are no risks of nicks and cuts so you can lose the stress and anxiety in the process.
With this in mind, there is a right and wrong way to go about grinding your dog’s nails safely. In this article, we will take a look at how to do it, why keeping your dog’s nails short is necessary, and why grinding is a great solution. So let’s get right to it!
What Are Nail Grinders?
Most people are very familiar with traditional nail clippers, and until the last few years, this was the only option available for trimming your pup’s nails. They were also very convenient and relatively safe. But with the creation of nail grinders for dogs, clippers are taking a back seat.
A dog nail grinder is a tool that has a rotary part that grinds your dog’s nails. If you find that your dog doesn’t like having its nails trimmed with clippers, a grinder is a good alternative, provided that your hound can get used to the sound.
Those who use grinders have found them to be safer, simpler, handier, and more precise. Grinders also reduce the risk of injuries and pain, cracks, and uneven pressure on your dog’s paw. Some grinders include a tool for polishing your dog’s nails to prevent rough edges.
Various grinder options are available, most of which do the same thing. You simply need to choose one based on your preferences, budget, and needs based on your dog’s size. Most chargers come with replacement grinder drums and rechargeable batteries.
They are typically lightweight and easy to control, making them ideal for using inside or outside – whatever is best for your dog. They will typically also have at least two speeds: low and high.
Why Do You Have To Trim Dog’s Nails?
Serious issues could arise if your dog’s nails grow too long. It can affect their ability to walk and run safely, and long nails may start curling and cause pain and discomfort for your dog. This can make them less inclined to play, walk, and run, which can lead to depression.
It can also place strain on your dog’s paws, joints, and legs as they compensate for the discomfort. This can also lead to joint damage and arthritis. If your dog has long nails, they can snag and break, which is extremely painful for your dog.
How to Safely Grind Dog Nails
Grinding your dog’s nails is very simple once you know the process. Just place the rotary part of the grinder under the part of the nail that comes in contact with the ground. Nail grinders are prone to heating with prolonged use, so only hold it to your dog’s nail for a few seconds at a time.
Dog nail grinders work quite quickly, and you will be surprised at how quickly your pup’s nails will shorten. The best part of using a grinder is that you are removing small bits of nail relatively evenly, so you can monitor your progress and ensure you don’t cut into the quick.
If your dog is not used to having their nails trimmed or is nervous about the grinder, it is vital to introduce them to the tool and technique appropriately. Ensure you take your time and give your pooch treats along the way to get them used to the process and noise.
Move very slowly and allow your dog the time to adjust to the situation. Also, keep in mind that the machine heats quickly, so do one nail at a time and have a break between each. As you finish each nail, turn the grinder off and give your dog a break and let the grinder cool down.
Frequently Asked Nail Grinding Questions
Does nail grinding hurt your dog?
Mostly, no. The main reason dog owners choose nail grinders over normal scissors for clipping is so they won’t hurt their dog. But, if you aren’t gentle and careful, you can pinch your pup’s paw, which can cause a bit of pain and discomfort, even when you cut to the right length.
Should you be hearing your dog’s nails tapping the floor?
Some dog breeds have nails so short that you can’t see them, like a doberman pinscher. But this is not typical for most dogs. The rule of thumb is that your dog’s nails shouldn’t touch the ground when they are standing. If you can hear your dog tapping along, their nails must be trimmed.
How often should you grind your dog’s nails?
You should grind your dog’s nails every four-eight weeks, depending on how quickly their nails grow. Additionally, if you can hear your dog’s nails tapping on the floor, you need to grind their nails.
Can long nails hurt your dog?
Nails that are too long can be painful for your pup. Longer nails can make your dog lose traction, causing them to slip or fall easily. Plus, when walking in rougher terrain, their nails can catch on roots, shrubs, and other items around them.
Does walking trim your dog’s nails?
Yes, walking your dog outside on asphalt, cement, or paving with a rougher surface can help naturally grind your dog’s nails down. If you don’t walk your dog very often (which should never be the case), you will need to trim or grind their nails more regularly.
Final Thoughts
The most important thing to remember when it comes to your dog’s nails is that they need to be kept at the right length. You can do this in various ways, but if regular trimming makes you nervous, grinding may be the best option for you.
Of course, you will have to overcome the issue of the noise the grinder makes, but if you go slowly and introduce the grinder to your pup slowly, it will become the best way to keep your dog’s nails the right length.