How to Use a Dog Nail Grinder

A dog's nails are a very important part of his anatomy. Unfortunately, they are often the most neglected part. Overgrown nails can not only be very painful for your pet, but can cause further complications if they are not tended to. A nail that is too long and curls into the paw can puncture the skin and cause infection. Nails that are too long can also crack and split, making it painful for your dog to walk. The nails scratching on the pavement because they are too long can also be uncomfortable. The procedure most often used to cut a dog's nails is with nail clippers. But using the clippers can cause the nails to crack and split, and does not always leave behind a smooth edge. The other alternative is a nail grinder. It is very easy to use, and offers a more controlled alternative for shortening your dog's nails. It may take some getting used to for your dog, but once he get's used to it, manicuring will be a breeze.

Things You'll Need

  • Nail grinder
  • Styptic powder
  • Cotton swab
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean your dogs paws and nails before you begin. You want to be able to see your dog's nails completely and without obstruction.

    • 2

      Decide which paw you will begin with, and choose the first nail. You don't want to stress your dog, so be focused and plan your strategy ahead of time. The more sure you are about what you are doing, and how you will do it, the more your dog will sense this and will allow him to feel a bit more comfortable.

    • 3

      Press the pad on your dogs paw just under the nail. This will cause the nail to extend and give you a better view of the nail. Take a good look at the nail. If it is a white nail, look for the pink quik inside. You want to be sure not to cut the nail so short that you invade that area. You want to leave some nail before it, otherwise it can cause bleeding. If your dog has a black nail, turn the nail towards you head on. While trimming, you will be looking for a white center that will appear amongst the black. When you see it, just as the pink quik, you will want to stop trimming.

    • 4

      Begin trimming with the grinder. Work in short bursts, always looking for the quik of the nails. When you are content with the length, stop.

    • 5

      Smooth the edge of the nail. Once the length is complete, always be sure to remove any sharp edge that will cause snags. Take a final sweep over the nail to smooth it out.

    • 6

      Continue this method with all of the nails until each one is an appropriate length.