Regular nail maintenance is essential for the growth and health of your pup. Unfortunately, this service is often overlooked and considered only an aesthetic to some owners, only getting attention when the ‘click clack’ of their walking becomes too much of an annoyance.

Nails that become overgrown can lead to many issues that a lot of owners don’t know about, such as:

Nails that are done seldom are seen as a punishment for your dog whereas nails done regularly, are seen as a part of life (This goes for regular grooming as well). Your pup can develop an aversion to having their nails done if they rarely receive it which can lead to stress, discomfort, and unwanted injuries to your pup’s nail.
Overgrown nails change the way that your dog holds their paws/legs. This creates a less ergonomic posture, leading to many problems such as early-onset arthritis.
Example shown below: take a look at the angle of the pup’s leg in the photo before (left) versus after (right) the nails were clipped. Imagine holding your legs in an awkward position to compensate for long nails for extended periods - it would quickly get very uncomfortable.

Nails can eventually become overgrown to the point that they curl into and puncture their pads. These cases cause extreme pain and can easily lead to infection from the wound.

How often should you be trimming your pup’s nails?

This varies GREATLY by dog due to age, activity level, and biology. In general, we recommend at least once a month, but this can range from 2 to 5 weeks. If you notice your pup’s nails touching the ground, they are due for a trim. When in doubt, ask your pet professional or during your next visit to Le Pawsh!

What if you don’t want your pup groomed professionally, as often as they need their nails trimmed?

Most groomers offer walk-in services for nails and other stand-alone services. At Le Pawsh, we offer walk-in nail service that doesn’t require an appointment. We’ll take your pup back for a few minutes and bring them back with perfect-looking nails.

What should you do if the quick (i.e. vein) in your pup’s nails is grown to the point of not getting a short trim?

The vein in the nail grows out with the whole nail itself; so if you let your pup’s nails overgrow often enough, the vein will also grow out. This may be why when your groomer or vet trims your pup’s nails they still look long. We can only trim the nail back as far as the vein will allow. It is possible for the vein in your pup’s nails to recede but requires nail trimming every 1-3 weeks.

Can you trim your pup’s nails at home?

In short, yes! If you feel comfortable enough at home in between trimming, then it’s a great idea. You can ask any team member at Le Pawsh or your pet professional for a demonstration during your visit. Remember to clip/file back slowly to not trim the nail too short.

What should you do if you accidentally clip your pup’s nail too short?

If you are working on doing your pup’s nails at home and accidentally trim them too short a great trick is to hold a little flour to the end of their nail to stop the bleeding. If the bleeding persists you should contact your vet. Mistakes happen, your pup can move at the wrong second, or you may misjudge how much to clip - don’t be too hard on yourself!

What should I do if my pup hates having their nails trimmed?

If your pup dislikes having their nails clipped, try filing. If they dislike filing, try clipping. If they dislike everything, you must desensitize them to having their paws and nails touched. This is a great opportunity for training treats or any high-value treat that piques their interest. Just remember to go slow, and give them lots of reassurance; touching and rewarding every day until they feel comfortable enough to go forward.

Healthy nails promote healthier posture and happier pups!