There is no doubt that dogs are incredible animals, and when it comes to self-grooming techniques, your family pet uses its tongue to clean itself. Unlike a cat, however, the family pooch still needs an owner’s help to maintain its status as a well-groomed dog. Veterinarians say that it’s important to check your dog’s ears, for instance, because even the most flexible canine cannot properly clean its ears. Then, there are your dog’s nails. Dog experts have some recommendations on how to perform this essential dog grooming step.
Pretty Paws
Dogs are active creatures, and their paws take them everywhere. They walk, they stand, they run, and their paws are always involved, so it wouldn’t be unusual to develop dirty paws.
As a loving pet owner, you also need to check their paws as part of the grooming process. You’ll often observe your dog licking its paws as it tries to clean itself, but a canine cannot get into every nook and cranny.
Your mission is to check between the folds of their paws, where tiny parasites like to hide and silently feed off your dog. All dogs are vulnerable to fleas, for instance. The American Kennel Club advises searching for fleas and flea dirt by using a flea comb.
Vets recommend also checking in between your pooch’s nails for stubborn debris, etc.
Neat, Trim Nails
Every dog will scratch a variety of surfaces for keeping its nails clean and trim, but you need to check your furry companion’s nails as part of a good grooming routine.
According to animal experts, a dog’s nails should be short and intact. If the nails are too long, they can actually cause discomfort or pain as the animal walks because the nails will cause pressure on the nail bed and your pooch’s toe joints.
Veterinarians usually advise trimming your dog’s nails every three to four weeks to prevent its nails from touching the ground as your canine stands.
Proper Nail Trimmer
Many dog owners cut their pooch’s nails safely and without any issues. According to professional Dog Groomer Madison, you need the right tool. For example, if you have a puppy or a small dog, scissor-style clippers are recommended.
For medium to large dogs, you would use large nail clippers (guillotine-style). Also, it’s suggested that you have styptic powder on hand if your dog’s nails bleed during the grooming process.
Some of the best advice out there is to always begin slowly when clipping and to get your canine comfortable. A few treats can help you get the procedure done smoothly and with a willing dog.
Vein Called The ‘Quick’
Every dog’s nails have a quick or soft cuticle containing the blood vessel or vein that runs through its nails. Carefully make a short clip because if you nick the quick, your pooch will feel it, and this will usually cause bleeding.
Take your time, and work your way up. Dog groomers advise trimming less from a dog’s back nails because they need less taken off than the front nails, where dogs carry their weight.
If by any chance you cut further then you should, search for a.dog urgent care near me in order to find a vet clinic that can help you patch the bloody nail.
Finished Filing Touch
After you have successfully performed a neat nail trim, you can add the smooth finishing touch with a grinder (Dremel) that features a spinning electric device. For some pups, it is too noisy and can increase dog anxiety.
If that’s the case, you can manually file your furry friend’s nails to shape and round out the edges. There are special, dog nail files available designed just for canines.
You will gain confidence every time you trim your dog’s nails, and many pet owners perform this grooming task safely and effectively, and your pooch will look forward to their yummy treats.
You love your dog and want to keep your furry companion clean, healthy and happy. Grooming is a key part of the process, and a dog’s nails help these adorable pets stay active and ‘paw-tastic’!
