Dogs need their nails trimmed every week. Making this a routine will ensure proper nail length is maintained and that paws and pads are checked for cuts or injury.

Nail length changes a dog’s posture. Long-term neglect of the nails will result in orthopedic damage and arthritis in the paws and legs. All dogs should have tight, round, and high-arched toes. Toes that are splayed, curved, or slanted are the result of nails that are too long.

A weekly trim is the standard we recommend to every client. Waiting longer lets the quick (the blood vessel inside the nail) grow out with the nail, which makes trims harder on both of you and raises the odds of nicking it. A short, consistent routine keeps nails at a safe length and keeps the process low-stress for your dog.

Trim your dog’s nails with him standing upright next to a wall. Small dogs may be accustomed to standing on a raised table. For the best lighting, trim during the day, near a window or outside. Use a flat buckle collar or a helper to secure him, and have plenty of treats on hand. When starting, give a treat for each nail clipped. Take breaks — a few minutes between each of the four paws is plenty.

With the dog standing, lift one paw at the wrist and hold it firmly but not tightly, with the pads facing up. Leaning your arm or body gently into the dog helps him balance and feel secure.

The nail is trimmed in three cuts: first the top, then each side. Trim in 1/16″ to 1/8″ increments — small, careful cuts are always safer than one big one.

JW Grip Soft Medium nail clippers are great for most sized dogs. They’re small enough that you can see what you’re doing, yet strong enough for big nails. This style of trimmer gives you the best precision and doesn’t squeeze the dog’s nail or make any sound that might startle him. Replace the blade every year to maintain a clean, sharp cut.

If you hear nails clicking on hardwood or tile, or notice your dog’s toes starting to splay or slant, it’s a sign trims have been too infrequent. Catching it here — before it becomes a posture or joint issue — is the easiest point to course-correct.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, overgrown nails can alter a dog’s gait and lead to lasting joint strain — which lines up with what we see in our own clients’ dogs.

Not every dog tolerates nail trims well, and that’s okay. If it’s turning into a wrestling match, or you’re not confident finding the quick, it’s worth letting someone else take it on.

Here at our training center in Mills River, NC, Nail trims are included with every Board & Train stay, and available as an add-on for regular boarding — no wrestling matches required.