Nail Trimming: Why It's More Important Than You Think

Nail care is one of the easiest parts of grooming to overlook, because long nails do not always look dramatic. Kept at a comfortable length, though, they help your dog stand and walk comfortably, and regular trims are simple routine maintenance.

A quick rule of thumb: if you can hear your dog's nails clicking on a hard floor, they are probably due a trim.

What is the quick?

Inside each nail is the quick, the living part with a blood supply and nerves. Cutting into it hurts and can bleed, which is why nails are trimmed a little at a time. When nails are left long, the quick tends to grow longer with them, so regular trims help keep nails at a manageable length.

Why nail length matters

• Overgrown nails can affect comfort and the way a dog stands and walks.
• Long nails are more likely to snag, split or break.
• In severe cases, nails can curl round towards the pads.

Dogs who mostly walk on grass or carpet, and less active or older dogs, tend to wear their nails down less naturally. If you have concerns about your dog's paws, walking or any pain, speak to your vet.

Don't forget the dewclaws

Dewclaws sit higher up on the inside of the leg and get little or no natural wear from walking, so they can grow long and curl without being noticed. They are worth checking at every trim.

Signs your dog's nails are too long

• ✓ Clicking on hard floors when they walk.
• ✓ Nails touching the ground when your dog is standing still.
• ✓ Visibly long or curling nails, including dewclaws.
• ✓ Nails snagging on carpets, furniture or clothing.
• ✓ Splitting or cracking at the tips.

How often should nails be trimmed?

Many dogs suit a trim roughly every four to six weeks, although it varies with activity and the surfaces they walk on. That fits well alongside a regular groom; nail trims are included in our Bath & Brush, Bath & Style and Full Groom. For general grooming schedules, see how often your dog should be groomed.

Nail care for dogs who dislike it

Many dogs are sensitive about having their paws handled. A one-to-one mobile groom outside your home, with no other dogs around, allows a calmer pace and breaks where needed. Older dogs may also benefit from the gentler approach in our senior dog grooming guide.

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