Why do my dog’s nails need to be clipped?

Regular nail trimming is a very important part of a dog’s overall wellness. Aside from the annoyance of long, scratchy nails or that clicking noise when nails hit the floor, long nails can become a health issue. When a dog’s nails get too long, it can result in pain whenever they’re up on all fours and, in extreme circumstances, it can even lead to injury. When too long, nails get pushed up into the nail bed by the ground, causing pain and pressure on the toe joints. This creates misalignment in which the toes can twist to the side and become crooked — causing skeletal damage.

When do I need my dog’s nails clipped?

While it’s not a favorite activity for most pups, it is a critical step in the grooming process. Dog nails contain something called the quick. The quick is a soft, pink tissue in the center of the nail that contains a highly sensitive bundle of nerves and blood vessels. When cutting a dog’s nails, the quick should not be clipped as it can be painful and bleed. The more often a dog’s nails are trimmed, the shorter the quick becomes, which means easier clipping and maintenance of a healthy length. Routine maintenance is key! For most dogs, we recommend a nail trim every 2-4 weeks, depending on their activity level, time outdoors, etc.