Every pet owner wants to see their pup happy around the home, so they try to create comfortable indoor and outdoor spaces with plenty of activities. Dog nails help them dig, protect themselves from predators, and paw at food and toys; however, they’re too long, it may make your pet uncomfortable while walking. Here are some reasons why nail trimming is so important and how to tell when it’s time to contact your groomer. 

What Length Should My Dog’s Nails Be?

Since dog paws vary dramatically in size, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all measurement; however, the nails should generally be long enough to be visible, but not so long that they extend below the pad of the foot. If they’re longer than this, they hit the ground when your dog walks, putting extra pressure on the nails and changing their walking stance. This can lead to joint pain and posture problems throughout the body. 

You’ll also want to be careful about keeping your dog’s nails too short because you can accidentally cut into the quick, an area in the nail bed that holds nerves and blood vessels. When this area gets damaged, your pup might yelp and the nail will bleed, which can get into the furniture and flooring.  

How Can You Tell When a Dog’s Nails Are Too Long?

Aside from inspecting your dog’s nails closely, you can tell they’re too long if you can hear them hit the floor or pavement as your pet walks, or if they scratch you when they jump on your legs. If they’re curved over the footpad, their long nails may start cracking or bleeding at the nail beds. 

Nail trimming every month should help dogs avoid all of these symptoms before they start. If your dog gets anxious when they see the nail trimmers, try bringing them to a groomer. These professionals have the latest tools and techniques to calm your pup and get the job done. Also, if your pet has darker nails, you may be nervous about cutting into the quick and causing pain. Groomers deal with this issue daily, so they know the appropriate length to trim nails safely. 

If you need to schedule nail trimming to keep your dog comfortable, contact Shar-Jo’s Pet Styling & In-Home Pet Sitting in Milford, OH. The groomer has more than 48 years of experience and works with all kinds of animals. The co-owner is also an obedience instructor, which can be helpful during activities that often make pets anxious, like getting their nails trimmed. Visit the website for a full list of services or call (513) 831-9457 to make an appointment.