Knowing how to properly cut your dogs nails will help you maintain your dogs paw care whilst saving you money and keeping them comfortable during the process.
Before you begin, here are 4 Top Tips
That Are Good To Know To Help You Cut Your Dogs Nails Correctly
1) The best temperature to wash your dogs paw and nails in is around 30°C
Using warm water on your dogs paws will ensure that they are comfortable and that their paws will definitely be cleaned as opposed to lukewarm or cool water which will not remove grime and dirt in the same way. Always ensure you check the temperature of the water on yourself before using it on your dog to check that it isn’t too hot or too cold.
2) Use a tool specifically designed to cut or grind your dog breeds nails
As dogs come in all shapes and sizes, so do their paws and nails. Ensure you research which tool to use for your dogs needs before starting to maintain their paw care yourself. It’s always a good idea to check with your vet as they’re experienced and knowledgeable in this field.
3) Have items on hand and know the steps to take if you nick their quick
Unfortunately human errors do happen with professionals and non professionals when it comes to cutting dog nails, however, if you are equipped with the correct items to stop any bleeding if a mistake does occur and you are knowledgeable on the steps to take, then you will be prepared going into the process. The items to have on hand are:
Clean cloth and or paper towels
Corn starch
The moment a quick is nicked, place a slight pressure on the area with a clean cloth or paper towel for 2-5 minutes. This may stop the bleeding and clot accordingly. If not, you will want to apply corn starch (or flour) to the area to help with clotting. If bleeding persists despite this approach, cauterisation may be necessary at your vets.
4) Pick the right time
It's best to cut your dogs nails when they are awake and not over stimulated. If you try to cut your dogs nails when they are excited or playful they'll want to keep moving and both will lead to difficulties and potential injuries during the process.
Now you're prepared, here are 4 Simple Steps
That Are Easy To Follow To Correctly Cut Your Dogs Nails
Step 1) Clean their paw and nails
Using warm water, dog shampoo or soap and a clean washcloth, gently cleanse their paws and nails and dry thoroughly with a clean towel.
Step 2) Moisturise their paws
Moisturising your dogs paws will help maintain healthy pads, toes and nails by keeping them soft whilst preventing them from cracks or peels. You can use specific dog paw balms however natural oils such as coconut, lavender or chamomile oil work very well, with coconut being our favourite choice.
Step 3) Massage their paws
Now your dogs paws are moisturised you can begin to massage their paws by first starting on their central pad, rubbing it gently and then moving to their toes which you can spread slightly in the process. This helps improve circulation and can be a great bonding method for you both.
Step 4) Trim their nails
First make sure your dog is calm and comfortable. Be patient and take your time as you begin using your tool of choice on their first front front paw, trimming all nails including the dew claw. Only take off the very tips to avoid the quick. If you do nick the quick, follow the advice in point 3 of our 4 top tips That Are Good To Know To Help You Cut Your Dogs Nails Correctly above.
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