About Dog's Nails

Function

• Dog toenails are nourished via a blood supply to the quick, but like human fingernails the tips are a fibrous, dead material. The nails provide stability to the foot, traction for running and turning, and aid in digging. The dewclaws (the extra knuckle and claw set on the side of the leg above the foot, rather like a thumb) are also useful for maneuvering and for holding prey or bones while eating. The dewclaws are not always present and are often surgically removed shortly after birth.

Considerations

• Wild canids such as wolves and coyotes spend much of their time on the move, and this keeps the nails naturally worn down. Pet dogs rarely get enough exercise to keep the nails short, which is why dog owners need to trim their dog's nails every 3 to 4 weeks. It is easiest to get a dog used to having her nails trimmed if you start as a puppy, making it a quick and painless experience. Start by handling the feet, praising and rewarding the pup for accepting it. Using high quality, sharp clippers, snip off the pointy or curved end of the toenail. If the nails are trimmed regularly, the quick will stay short and the nails will stay healthy. It is relatively inexpensive to have your vet or groomer trim the nails, but it is less stressful to the dog, and cheaper, to do it at home.
  Search this site for more detailed instructions on clipping a dog's nails.

Expert Insight

• Many experts consider using a Dremel-type tool on a dog's nails as producing the neatest effect. This is typically how show-dog owners maintain a dog's nails, and it is not difficult. In addition to producing a much cleaner look, a Dremel will not cut the quick or cause any discomfort to the dog. Pet stores carry electric nail tools, similar to the Dremel but designed specifically for dogs' nails. Check the link below for detailed, step-by-step instruction on filing your dog's nails.

Warning

• If the nails are not kept short, the danger to the dog is more than merely cosmetic. The nails can curve under the dog's foot and create discomfort and injury to the foot pad. The dog will not be able to walk naturally, which can stress the joints. Large breed dogs may take up to 18 months to complete bone growth, and if their nails are allowed to grow too long, it can disrupt joint development and cause permanent bone abnormalities. Additionally, in larger or heavier dogs, long nails can mar hardwood or vinyl flooring.

Prevention/Solution

• Periodically, check your dog's nails, especially if he is limping. Sometimes the nail will split lengthwise--this is more likely if the nails are left to grow too long--and not only is this painful, it can lead to an infection in the nail bed. Infections deep in the nail can result in bone infections, which can be difficult and expensive to treat. Also check the nails for flaking of the outer surface, or any sort of abnormal appearance. This could indicate a fungal infection called onychomycosis, which will need to be treated by your veterinarian.