Compared with the sharp nails of cats, the nails of dogs are slightly blunt and round, so they are easy to be ignored.
If the nails are not cut regularly, it may cause the nails to be too long, causing joint problems, etc., and most dogs are not very cooperative with nail cutting. So, how can we cut dog nails scientifically and effectively? Let me teach you today.
The structure of dog nails:
There are two main types of dog nails: white (transparent) and black. The pink part circled in the above picture can be called “blood line”, which is the blood vessels and nerves inside the nail.
White nails: The blood line is clear and can be cut to a distance of 2 mm from the blood line.
Black nails: They need to be trimmed little by little. Check the cross section of the nail to see if there are white spots. If you see white spots, it means it has reached the tips of blood vessels and nerves. If you cut it again, it will bleed.
Why should you trim your nails regularly?
Dogs’ nails are constantly growing, and unlike humans, a dog’s blood line will grow as the nails grow. If the proper length is not maintained, it is easy to bleed with one cut.
Other reasons include:
- When nails are too long, direct contact with the ground can cause pain
- Nails that are too long can affect your dog’s gait and posture, leading to joint problems
- Long nails can break easily, causing infection
- Nails that are too long affect the grip and are prone to slipping on smooth floors such as tiles, which is a burden for elderly dogs with degenerated joints and muscles.
- Curved nails may puncture the paw pads or skin, especially on dangling toes
- Damage to floors and furniture
How Often Should You Trim Your Nails?
The ideal length of a dog’s nails is so that they do not touch the ground when standing. Depending on the growth rate, it is generally trimmed every 3-4 weeks. The nails of dogs who spend a lot of time on rough surfaces and outdoors grow more slowly due to natural wear and tear compared to smaller dogs that get less exercise. Older dogs’ nails are drier, brittle, and break easily, and should be trimmed more frequently.
What should I pay attention to when trimming dog nails?
1. Prepare tools:
Dog-specific nail clippers: It is recommended to choose scimitar or hollow sickle type for large dogs. Small dogs can share it with cats.
- Snacks: soothing, rewarding
- Hemostatic powder: If you accidentally cut and bleed, sprinkle the hemostatic powder on the section of the nail and press it with gauze for a few minutes.
- Electric foot hair clipper: Trimming the hair on the soles of your feet can prevent slipping and help dissipate heat.
- Nail polisher/file: to smooth the edges of the nails
2. Operation steps:
- To secure the animal, small dogs can be held on the lap or placed on a stable surface. For large dogs, it is recommended to find another person to hold the animal.
- Hold the dog’s paw between your thumb and index finger from behind or from the side, remove the obstruction of the foot hair, and keep the hand in the same direction as the dog’s paw.
- Gently push down with your thumb to extend the nail to be cut forward.
- Cut nails at an angle, not parallel or perpendicular to the ground
- Don’t forget the hanging toes of the forelimbs
- Polish your nails in sequence
In short, if the dog’s nails are dark and you can’t see the blood line clearly, or you dare not operate at home, you can go to the animal hospital or pet store to ask a professional to do it. Cutting a dog’s nails is also a skill. As long as you master the above methods, you can also cut your dog’s nails at home. Before each nail clipping, you can properly reward the dog with snacks and pet the head to calm the dog’s emotions, and it will naturally not resist.
FAQs about cutting the nails of Affenpinschers：
Q1: How often should I trim my Affenpinscher‘s nails?
A1: You should aim to trim your Affenpinscher’s nails every 2-4 weeks. However, the frequency can vary depending on their activity level and how fast their nails grow. Regular monitoring is key to maintaining the right nail length.
Q2: Can I use regular nail clippers for my Affenpinscher’s nails?
A2: It’s recommended to use nail clippers specifically designed for dogs. You can choose between scissor-style and guillotine-style clippers. These clippers are designed to make clean cuts without splintering or crushing the nail.
Q3: How do I avoid cutting the quick of the nail?
A3: To avoid cutting the quick, examine each nail carefully before trimming. The quick is the pinkish part inside the nail. Make small, gradual cuts at the tip of the nail, and if you’re unsure how much to trim, it’s safer to trim less. Be cautious and patient during the process.
Q4: What should I do if I accidentally cut the quick and there’s bleeding?
A4: If you accidentally cut the quick and bleeding occurs, don’t panic. You can apply styptic powder to the affected nail to stop the bleeding. Alternatively, use a damp cloth to gently clean the area. It’s essential to reassure your dog with treats and affection if this happens.
Q5: Can I use a grinder instead of clippers to trim my Affenpinscher’s nails?
A5: Yes, you can use a nail grinder or Dremel tool to trim your dog’s nails. It’s another effective method, especially if your dog is sensitive to clippers. Be sure to use a dog-specific grinder and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use.
Q6: What if my Affenpinscher resists having their nails trimmed?
A6: If your dog resists nail trimming, it’s crucial to stay patient and gentle. Gradually introduce them to the clippers or grinder, offer treats and praise for cooperation, and take breaks if needed. Some dogs may benefit from professional grooming if they’re particularly anxious about nail trims.
Q7: Why is keeping Affenpinscher’s nails at the right length important?
A7: Maintaining the proper nail length is crucial for your Affenpinscher’s comfort and overall health. Overgrown nails can lead to discomfort, pain, and even affect their gait. Keeping their nails short also reduces the risk of nail injuries and helps them maintain good posture.
