Hello Danes

Category: Nail Maintenance

  • Is My Dog in Pain? My Experience with Wobblers Syndrome

    Is My Dog in Pain? My Experience with Wobblers Syndrome

    Is my dog in pain? This is one nagging question that I have asked myself ever since Gigi, my Great Dane, was diagnosed with Wobblers Syndrome on her third birthday last year. Wobblers Syndrome, also known as cervical spondylomyelopathy or cervical vertebral instability, is a condition that affects the spine of dogs, particularly large breeds like Great Danes, Doberman Pinschers, and Mastiffs. It can lead to various neurological issues, including pain and difficulty moving.

    Lets discuss the things that I have done to help make sure she lives a comfortable life, despite having a chronic condition.

    What is Wobblers and Is My Dog in Pain?

    Wobblers Syndrome is a complex condition that primarily affects the cervical (neck) region of a dog’s spine. It’s characterized by the compression or instability of the spinal cord due to abnormalities in the vertebrae. These abnormalities can cause pain, weakness, and difficulties with coordination in affected dogs.

    Is my dog in pain?

    Wobblers Syndrome in Great Danes: A Scary Neurological Disease Affects 4% of Great Danes

    If your dog has been diagnosed with Wobblers Syndrome, it’s essential to monitor their condition closely for signs of pain. Some common indicators of pain in dogs with Wobblers include:

    1. Lameness or difficulty walking: Dogs with Wobblers may exhibit a wobbly or unsteady gait, hence the name of the syndrome.
    2. Neck pain: They may be sensitive or painful when you touch their neck or head.
    3. Reluctance to move: Dogs in pain often avoid moving or may be hesitant to go up or down stairs or jump onto furniture.
    4. Changes in behavior: Look for signs of restlessness, aggression, or depression, which can be indications of pain.
    5. Loss of appetite: Pain can reduce a dog’s appetite, leading to weight loss.
    6. Whining or vocalization: Dogs may vocalize or whine when they are in pain.

    How Can I Help Make Sure My Dog Is Not in Pain?

    If your dog has Wobblers Syndrome or any other chronic condition, there are several ways you can help ensure they are comfortable and pain-free. Here are some key areas to focus on. I have now had a neurological / special needs dog for 1.5 years, and these are the main things that have worked for us!

    Make Lifestyle Changes and Implement Them All the Time!

    Your lifestyle matters when you have any dog, but even more so when you have a dog who may experience daily pain or discomfort.

    Be prepared to make necessary adjustments to your home, routine, and activities to accommodate your dog’s needs. Providing a loving and supportive environment, along with the appropriate medical care and therapies, will not only help alleviate their pain but also allow you to cherish the precious moments you share with your loyal and resilient friend. Remember, the bond you share with your dog can grow stronger through these challenges, making every effort you invest in their well-being well worth it.

    Lifestyle Tips:

    • Nail Maintenance: Keep your dog’s nails trimmed to prevent them from dragging their paws, which can exacerbate pain.
    • Car Ramps: Use ramps to help your dog get in and out of the car or on and off elevated surfaces with ease.
    • Exercise: Work with your veterinarian to develop an appropriate exercise plan that keeps your dog active without putting too much strain on their spine.
    • Rugs: It can be very difficult for a dog to walk on slippery floors, so laying rugs down helps them tremendously!

    What Kind of Floors Are Best for Dogs?

    Is my dog in pain?

    How Often Should You Cut Your Dog’s Nails?

    Focus on Nutrition! Nutrition Can Fuel Your Pup!

    Nutrition plays a pivotal role in managing the well-being of a dog with Wobblers Syndrome.

    Choosing the right diet is essential to ensure your canine companion receives the necessary nutrients to support their overall health and minimize discomfort. Consider adding supplements like Omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine to promote joint health and reduce inflammation.

    Opt for a high-quality diet specially formulated for large breed dogs, as their nutritional needs may differ from smaller breeds. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend a specialized diet tailored to your dog’s specific condition. Proper nutrition not only contributes to your dog’s physical health but also plays a role in their mental and emotional well-being, helping them lead a more comfortable and fulfilling life despite the challenges posed by Wobblers Syndrome.

    What should you feed your Great Dane?

    Nutritional Tips:

    • Omega E and Glucosamine: Consider supplements like Omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine, which can support joint health and reduce inflammation.
    • High-Quality Diet: Feed your dog a high-quality diet formulated for large breed dogs. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations.
    • Veterinarian-Approved Diet: In some cases, a specialized diet prescribed by your vet may be necessary to manage your dog’s condition effectively.

    Medication Is Not Always Bad

    Medicating your beloved dog can indeed be a daunting decision, often accompanied by worries about side effects or long-term consequences.

    However, for dogs dealing with chronic pain, medication can be a true blessing in disguise. It’s essential to recognize that many veterinary medications have been thoroughly researched and are carefully administered to provide relief while minimizing adverse effects. These treatments can significantly enhance your dog’s quality of life by alleviating discomfort, improving mobility, and even preventing further damage or deterioration. Consulting with a trusted veterinarian who specializes in your dog’s condition can help ease your concerns and guide you toward the most suitable medication options, ultimately allowing your furry friend to enjoy a more comfortable and pain-free existence. In many cases, medication can be the key to unlocking a happier and healthier life for your canine companion.

    Joint Health Tips

    Medications Tips:

    • Finding a Veterinarian You Love: Establish a strong relationship with a veterinarian who specializes in treating dogs with neurological issues.
    • Trusting the Experts: Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for medications that can help manage pain and inflammation.
    • Using Prescription Medication: In severe cases, prescription medications may be necessary to alleviate your dog’s pain.

    Use CBD to Help Provide Comfort and Ease Discomfort

    CBD (Cannabidiol) has gained considerable attention in recent years as a potential aid in managing pain and discomfort in dogs, including those with chronic conditions like Wobblers Syndrome. Derived from the cannabis plant, CBD is non-psychoactive and known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. We have very positive results when using CBD products designed specifically for dogs for Gigi’s plan to keep her happy.

    Is my dog in pain?

    Gigi is enjoying her Pet Releaf Edibles Stress Releaf Chews!

    These products, such as those from reputable brands like Pet Releaf, can help reduce discomfort, inflammation, and anxiety in dogs, ultimately improving their quality of life. When used responsibly and under professional guidance, CBD can be a valuable addition to your dog’s pain management strategy.

    Is my dog in pain?

    We take her PetReleaf with us to appointments so that it can help provide comfort for her as well as keep her stress levels down.

    CBD Tips:

    • Pet Releaf CBD: Some pet owners have found that CBD products, like those from Pet Releaf, can provide pain relief and reduce inflammation in dogs. Consult with your veterinarian before using any CBD products for your dog.

    Modern-Day Therapies That We Have Done That Help

    Modern-day therapies have played a significant role in improving the comfort and well-being of Gigi, as well as some others who are dealing with conditions like Wobblers Syndrome.

    Acupuncture, a traditional practice adapted for pets, has shown promise in managing pain and enhancing overall health. Laser therapy offers a non-invasive approach to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, while veterinary chiropractors can address mobility issues, providing much-needed relief. Embracing new and innovative treatments, such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy, showcases the commitment to exploring every avenue to enhance your dog’s quality of life. These modern therapies, when integrated into a comprehensive care plan, can make a remarkable difference in the comfort and happiness of dogs living with chronic pain.

    Is my dog in pain?

    Gigi is inside of this hyperbaric oxygen therapy tank! It was so cool! Read more about this form of therapy here.

    • Acupuncture: Alternative therapies like acupuncture can help manage pain and improve your dog’s overall well-being.
    • Laser Therapy: Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that can reduce inflammation and pain.
    • Chiropractor: A veterinary chiropractor may help improve your dog’s mobility and comfort.
    • Trying New Therapies: Don’t be afraid to explore new and innovative therapies like hyperbaric oxygen treatment, which may offer additional relief.

    Making the Most Out of Every Moment

    Living with a dog diagnosed with Wobblers Syndrome can be challenging, but it’s important to focus on making the most out of every moment you have together. Spend quality time with your dog, engage in activities they enjoy, and ensure they receive plenty of love and attention. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian are crucial to monitor their condition and make adjustments to their treatment plan as needed.

    Is my dog in pain?

    This photo is a picture of me and Gigi walking around outside. She really loves to go for walks, and I treasure every moment with her!

    In conclusion, while Wobblers Syndrome can be a source of concern for dog owners, there are many ways to help manage your dog’s pain and improve their quality of life. By staying informed, working closely with your veterinarian, and exploring various treatment options, you can provide your beloved pet with the comfort and care they deserve.

    Is my dog in pain?

    Shop Pet Releaf products here.

  • Do Better for Danes: 2023 Resolutions

    Do Better for Danes: 2023 Resolutions

    Happy New Year, Dane lovers! It’s time to make our list of 2023 Resolutions and this year I’m calling it “Do Better for Danes”. Here are 10 dog-inspired resolutions for all of us!

    Pick one or pick them all, what resolutions do you have in 2023 to do better for your Dane?

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    #1 – Sparkly, Healthy Gnashers!

    Did you know that dental problems in dogs are not only incredibly painful, but they can lead to tooth loss, heart disease and infections, too?

    Resolve to keep your pups teeth in top shape this year. Daily brushing can go a long ways towards keeping gunk and bacteria at bay.

    With lots of positive reinforcement and yummy toothpaste, even the most resistant dog can learn to tolerate teeth brushing!

    Read here to learn more about veterinary dental cleanings, which are the gold standard for dogs and a great place to get started if your dental maintenance is a little behind.

    This article covers some of the best vet-recommended dog chews as well, which can be helpful for removing daily tartar and plaque build up.

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    #2 – Time for a Pawdicure

    Overgrown nails on Great Dane Dogs lead to pain, arthritis, joint damage, breakage, and changes to the way the dog moves and walks.

    If the nails touch the ground, it’s time for a pawdicure!

    Of course, some dogs are incredibly resistant to this process. For those dogs, veterinary advice is a must. Daily positive interactions with nail trims (even if just seeing the nail tool in exchange for a treat) is a step in the right direction, too!

    We prefer to keep our Danes nails short and round, the same style seen on show dogs. Short nails are written into the breed standard because they are best for orthopedic health.

    For trimming Great Dane nails, we recommend a DREMEL tool and diamond or sanding bit.

    Weekly nail trimming is the gold standard. Not there yet? Make this one of your top “Do Better for Danes” resolution this year.

    How to trim Great Dane nails

    How to trim Black Nails

    Great Dane Puppy Nail Trimming

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    #3 – A Shiny Coat

    Having a dull, dry, itchy coat is uncomfortable for your dog and may be a sign of other health problems, too.

    A shiny coat is not only eye-catching, but healthier and more comfortable for your dog to live in!

    Here are some top shiny-coat tips for your Great Dane:

    If your dog has a dull coat and chronically itchy or problematic skin, it’s time to see a veterinarian. They may be able to refer you to a veterinary nutritionist, internest, allergist, or dermatologist so you can get to the root of the issue.

    Cost of Great Dane Ear Crop
    Cost of Great Dane Ear Crop

    #4 – Healthy Weight

    Of course, in humans “diet culture” and “weight loss resolutions” have become a toxic and dangerous space. For dogs, however, it’s a different story.

    Humans can be a size 18 or a size 2 and still be incredibly healthy either way. We are not dogs; we have different needs and a much different build. We also have much more control over the food we are fed.

    Dogs unfortunately cannot control their diet.

    Great Danes that carry extra weight will, on average, shorten their lifespan by around 2 years.

    It is never good to bulk up a Great Dane in the interest of making them heftier, bigger, or more robust. Great Danes are actually a lean, athletic breed and seeing a rib or two is not only normal, but desirable.

    If your Great Dane needs to lose weight, talk to your veterinarian about a balanced weight-loss diet and appropriate exercise.

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    #5 – Boredom Busters

    Did you know that many behavioral problems, including separation anxiety, are a direct result of boredom?

    Destruction, whining, pacing, barking, laziness, and even reactivity can be brought on by, or worsened in dogs that are well…bored. Resolve this year to alleviate boredom in your dog. Give them the best life possible with natural enrichment opportunities.

    Most dogs do not receive enough exercise or enrichment. In most cases, a walk on pavement, toys, a yard, and another dog are not nearly enough.

    Here is a list of things you can do to bust boredom in your dog (and better their social, obedience, and separation skills in the process!)

    With proper exercise and socialization, many people are surprised to find that a lot of nuisance behaviors are greatly minimized, if not eliminated. Enrichment is fun and a great opportunity to bond with your dog, too!

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    #6 – Get Off-Leash, Finally!

    We believe that Danes should be off-leash as much as possible.

    Their giant bodies and joints are susceptible to damage which can be made worse by the restrictions and pressure from harnesses, head collars, and collars…especially if they lunge or pull a lot!

    Of course, teaching a solid loose-leash walk is 100% necessary. However, when possible, Danes should be allowed to move as naturally and freely as much as they can.

    Enter the modern E-Collar. This is the only tool on the market that is more gentle than a Gentle Leader, and allows complete, unrestricted freedom of movement.

    If your Great Dane will come when called from 10-20 feet away in a low distraction environment, your Dane can be E-Collar trained and reliably off-leash within weeks.

    Interested in learning more? We have a ton of resources on this topic.

    Buy an E-Collar for your Great Dane HERE

    Learn how to E-Collar train your Great Dane HERE

    5 Reasons to E-Collar Train your Great Dane

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    #7 – Ditch the Food Shaming

    Did you know that some of the best dog foods available for your Great Dane are not actually the most expensive or fancy ones?

    Marketing has taught us to equate fancy, unregulated terms such as “holistic” and “super-premium” with better nutrition. These things are often nothing more than marketing schemes meant to separate your money from your wallet.

    This year, we encourage the Dane community to ditch food shaming.

    If you want the best nutrition for your Great Dane, skip the boutique foods and look towards science and research, instead. There are proven options available at all price points, and because they are fully complete and balanced, no expensive unbalanced toppers are needed.

    I recommend a large or giant breed food from tried and true brands such as Purina, Royal Canin, or Eukanuba for Great Danes. Hill’s or Iam’s are great, too. Purina One Large Breed is a solid, budget-friendly option, for example.

    Read our best foods for Great Danes post HERE.

    For healthy toppers that don’t break the bank and have actual benefits (such as reducing the risk of bloat or cleaning teeth) try one of these:

    • Canned food such as Purina ONE or Pro Plan to provide fresh/wet food in the diet
    • Balanced raw food from RAWS PAWS. Use code HELLODANES for 10% off to replace a portion of their balanced dry food
    • Scrambled eggs (5 or less per week)
    • Minced or blended fruits and vegetables from your kitchen (less than 5% of the diet)
    • Raw turkey necks or chicken paws (for dogs that know how to crunch them up properly, 1 each week)

    Still unsure about what to feed your Great Dane and why? Check out Tufts University Petfoodology blog for science-backed nutrition information that is not motivated by affiliate links or sales.

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    Above All, in 2023…

    Let’s all do better for Danes.

    We’re going to support ethical breeders and ethical rescues…and make it socially irresponsible for breeders and rescues to be anything less.

    We’re going to talk to our veterinarians, and learn to trust them. After all, they want our dogs to thrive.

    We want to get our dogs out more. Moving, living their lives, being spoiled rotten. Snuggled up with us, running beside us, and being our faithful, healthy companion for as many days on Earth as we are given with them.

    What resolutions do you have for your Danes in 2023? Share them below!

  • How Often Should You Cut Your Dog’s Nails?

    How Often Should You Cut Your Dog’s Nails?

    How often should you cut your dog’s nails? How often you should cut your dog’s nails depends on a variety of factors, including the breed of dog, the type of clippers you use, and how fast your dog’s nails grow.

    In general, most dogs need their nails trimmed every single week! However, if you have a short-haired breed or a dog with very slow-growing nails, you may be able to go longer between trimmings. If your dog’s nails are getting too long and start to curl under his paws, it is time for a trim! (READ MORE ABOUT TOENAIL PROBLEMS HERE)

    DIAGRAM OF NAILS THAT ARE WAY TOO LONG, A LITTLE BIT TOO LONG, AND NICELY TRIMMED:

    how to cut dogs nails
    Dachshund Nails too Short 1
    DIAGRAM OF NAILS THAT ARE WAY TOO LONG, A LITTLE BIT TOO LONG, AND NICELY TRIMMED

    How Often Should You Cut Your Dog’s Nails?

    Overgrown dog nails can be a huge problem for your pup. Not only can they be uncomfortable, but they can also lead to health problems. Dog owners should keep their dog’s nails trimmed to avoid these issues! (READ MORE HERE)

    How Often Should You Cut Your Dog's Nails

    Pet parents should get in the habit of regularly trimming dog nails so that they don’t face overgrown nails. Trimming your dog’s nails is one of the primary grooming responsibilities of being a dog owner.

    How often you need to do a nail trimming session depends on a few factors:

    1. Are your dog’s nails overgrown? (READ MORE HERE)
    2. Is your dog used to frequent nail trimming?
    3. Does your dog’s nails tend to cut/crack/break?
    4. Is your dog prone to having extra long nails that grow fast?
    5. Is your dog an older dog or a puppy?
    6. Does your dog’s paw match the standard for the dog breed that they are or are their overgrown nails impacting the way their foot sits?

    Although there are factors for how often you should trim a dog’s nail, a good rule is to make sure you are trimming your dog’s nails every single week in order to ensure that their nails are not impacting their growth, conformation and health.

    Do Dog’s Long Nails Hurt?

    How Often Should You Cut Your Dog's Nails

    Both veterinarians and professional groomers will agree that dog nails that are long and overgrown can hurt a dog both in that moment and have permanent damage. (Is your dog having feet problems?)

    Long nails can cause your dog pain when walking or running because the long nail puts pressure on the toe and bends it back. This causes the quick, which is the blood vessel in the nail, to grow longer and makes it more susceptible to injury. In severe cases, a deformed toe from long nails can even make it difficult for a dog to walk.

    On the other hand, overgrown nails can also cause your dog pain when they are lying down or sitting because the long nails press into the flesh and make it uncomfortable. In fact, some dogs will try to alleviate this pressure by standing on their hind legs! (READ MORE HERE)

    If you think your dog or pup’s nails are too long, try to check and see if the dog nails reach the floor when the dog is standing. If the nails touch the floor, the dog needs a nail trim.

    1. Arthritis
    2. Joint pain
    3. Hip Dysplasia
    4. Lameness
    5. Inability to walk or run
    6. Deformed Toes
    7. Nerve Damage
    8. Bruising
    9. Cuts
    10. Inflammation
    11. Infection

    Issues that long dog nails can cause:

    CANINE HIP DYSPLASIA
    ARTHRITIS IN DOGS
    GROWING PAINS IN DOGS
    USING LASER THERAPY FOR YOUR DOG’S PAIN

    If you want to avoid these health problems, make sure to keep your pet’s nails cut regularly!

    How to Trim Your Dog’s Nails

    How Often Should You Cut Your Dog's Nails

    Trimming your pup’s toenails regularly is not always easy. Dog nails can be sensitive, dark colored nails are harder to trim than clear nails, and some dogs simply do not like their nails being trimmed.

    Here are some tips on how to make trimming nails a little bit easier:

    1. Start early! Get your puppy used to having his nails cut so that it is not a traumatic experience for him later on. (LEARN MORE ABOUT GETTING A PUPPY USED TO THEIR NAILS BEING TRIMMED HERE)
    2. Trim often! Trim your dog’s nails weekly and regularly. Too long nails can make it harder when you get to it. Start trimming even daily! Trimming your dog’s nails regularly can eliminate a ton of anxiety or angst.
    3. Use the right tools. Make sure you are using sharp, high-quality clippers specifically designed for dogs.Be gentle. Dogs have a quick in their nails, which is a blood vessel. If you cut too far into the quick, it will bleed and be painful for your dog. (READ MORE HERE)
    4. Give treats! Lots of positive reinforcement in the form of treats and praise will help your dog associate trimming with something good!

    Get Your Dog Accustomed to Dog Grooming

    How Often Should You Cut Your Dog's Nails
    How Often Should You Cut Your Dog's Nails

    Overgrown dog toenails are a pain- both physically to your dog and also can be a harm to your home! Not only can they be uncomfortable, but they can also lead to health problems.

    Unfortunately, some dogs hate getting their nails cut. Dog nail trimming does not need to be a complete and utter pain every single time.

    Try to start getting your dog’s feet used to being touched before you even begin to trim your pup’s dog nail. When you are sitting around watching tv with your dog, try rubbing their feet and playing with their toes. This way, when it comes time to trim their toenails they will be more used to having their feet handled.

    NEED HELP CHOOSING NAIL CLIPPERS?
    TIPS FOR HEALTHY DOG NAILS
    DOES YOUR PUPPY LET YOU TRIM THEIR NAILS?
    WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOUR DOG’S NAILS?

    If you feel like your dog is ready to try, start with just one nail. They may be a bit nervous, but that is okay! Begin cutting or filing their front nails, one at a time. Be extra careful if they are still nervous to make it an overall positive experience.

    As always, give lots of treats and praise during and after the nail trimming session! With a little bit of patience and these tips, you’ll have your dog working their way up to being able to get nail trims on more than one nail.

    What Tool is the Best to Keep Your Dogs Toenails?

    IMG 6124 2 1

    READ MORE ABOUT TOOLS WE RECOMMEND FOR TRIMMING HERE

    Every dog is different with what nail tool they prefer. Likewise, some pet owners prefer to use nail trimmers and some prefer to use a Dremel. (READ MORE HERE)

    Try practicing with both tools to see which works better for your dog’s nail, their personality, and your own comfort level.

    NAIL CLIPPERS

    You may prefer using nail clippers to get your pup’s nails cut. Some dogs prefer clippers too, as it cuts the nail in one clean motion. Clippers are also less likely to cause the quick to bleed if you accidentally clip too far.

    There are two types of nail clippers: guillotine style and scissors style. If you have a small dog, you’ll want to use smaller clippers designed specifically for them. For large dogs, you’ll want to use larger clippers.

    Be sure to read more about how to cut dog nails and which tools we recommend for dog nail trimming here:

    DREMEL TOOLS

    How Often Should You Cut Your Dog's Nails

    If your dog hates having their nails clipped, a Dremel tool may be a better solution for you both. A Dremel can file your dog’s toenails down instead of clipping them off. This method takes longer, but some dogs prefer it and it is less nerve wracking with accidentally cutting off too much nail. (READ MORE HERE)

    Just take the dremel tool and start filing slowly where the nail starts, being careful to stop at the dog’s quick. The quick contains blood vessels and will bleed if you trim or touch it. Get a good grip on the nail dremmel and start filing in short strokes.

    Be sure to read more about how to dremel dog toenails and checkout the tool we recommend for dog nail trimming here:

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    What Do Dog’s Nails Clicking Mean?

    How Often Should You Cut Your Dog's Nails

    If you start to hear your dog’s toenails on surfaces like hardwood floors, this is a clue that you should trim your dog’s toenails.

    Overgrown dog toenails will curve and start to grow into the pads of their feet. This can be painful for your dog and also make it difficult for them to walk normally.

    If you hear your dog or puppy’s feet clicking, you should assume that they need a good nail file. Always remember that short cut toenails can and will help to keep your dog healthy and protect their joints, while longer toenails will lead to joint issues.

    Frequent toenail trimmings can prevent so many issues and keep your dog healthy. This is a good time to pull out the toenail trimmers or dremel tool and get to work!

    Is Going For a Walk Regularly Enough for Your Dog’s Trimming?

    How Often Should You Cut Your Dog's Nails

    You might hear owners say that going for walks can keep their dog or puppy’s nails worn enough that they don’t ever have to even provide trims.

    Unfortunately, even dog’s who go on walks regularly can and will have claws that are way too long if they are not frequently getting trimmed. Dog walks are just not enough to wear the nails down on their own.

    This is especially true for senior dogs or ones with health conditions that make it difficult for them to walk frequently or at all. This length will need even more attention to prevent any discomfort.

    What To Do If You Accidentally Cut the Dog Nails Too Short

    How Often Should You Cut Your Dog's Nails

    Inside of each dog nail is something called the “quick.” The quick contains blood vessels and nerves, and if you accidentally cut it, it will bleed and be painful for your dog. The quick is harder to see in black nails or dark nails, but you can clearly see it in light colored nails.

    If you do accidentally cut the quick, don’t panic! Use a styptic powder or pencil to stop the bleeding and then put a bandage on it. This will help the dog to stop bleeding sooner, and keep your dog from licking the wound and will also help to keep any dirt out.

    If you’re not comfortable trimming your dog’s nails, we recommend taking them to a professional groomer or vet. They have experience trimming dog nails and will be able to do it quickly and painlessly for your pup.

    Do Slippery Surfaces Play a Role In Dog’s Health?

    Older dogs, puppies, dogs who are prone to joint disease or injury, and dogs who are overweight or obese are more likely to experience negative health effects from slippery surfaces.

    NEW PUPPY CHECKLIST

    Dogs who live in homes with hardwood floors or tile floors are also at a higher risk for developing calluses on their elbows and hocks (the joints on the back legs). These calluses can lead to joint pain and arthritis.

    To help prevent these health problems, we recommend using mats or rugs in your home, especially in areas where your dog likes to lay down or sleep. You can also use traction socks or booties on their feet when they go outside to help them keep their footing.

    THE BEST NAIL CLIPPERS FOR BIG DOGS
    HOW TO KEEP YOUR DOGS NAILS HEALTHY
    CLIPPING A PUPPIES NAILS
    TOENAIL PROBLEMS

    Slick floors are a pain point for most dogs. Pups with longer nails will have a hard time gripping the floor, and those with shorter nails or no nails will have a hard time getting traction. This can lead to falls and injuries, so always be cautious of your dog when they’re on slippery surfaces.

    Adding both frequent nail trimmings as well as rugs and runners are two very easy solutions for this household problem.

    In Conclusion

    In conclusion, dog nail trimming is an important part of dog care. Dogs need their nails trimmed every few weeks, and more frequently if they are active or have long nails. If you’re not comfortable trimming your dog’s nails, we recommend taking them to a professional groomer or vet.

    Trimming your dog’s nails is important for their health and wellbeing. It’s a simple task that only takes a few minutes, but can make a big difference in your dog’s life. So next time you’re considering skipping a trim, remember how important it is for your pup to not develop overgrown dog nails, and go ahead and give them a quick nail trimming!

    Your turn! How often do you give nail trims? Do you trim your dog’s nails weekly or monthly? Let us know in the comments!

    FEET PROBLEMS
    NEW PUPPY CHECKLIST

  • Great Dane Toenail Problems: How to Keep Your Dog’s Nails Healthy

    Great Dane Toenail Problems: How to Keep Your Dog’s Nails Healthy

    Great Dane toenail problems are a common issue for this breed of dog. Luckily, there are ways to keep your dog’s nails healthy and avoid any potential issues. In this blog post, we will discuss the best ways to care for your Great Dane’s nails and how to prevent any problems from arising.

    Toenail Problems

    GREAT DANE TOENAIL PROBLEMS: WHY DOES IT MATTER?

    As the owner of a Great Dane, you may be wondering why it is so important to keep your dog’s nails healthy. After all, they are just nails, right? Wrong!

    Your dog’s nails play an important role in their overall health and well-being. Here are a few reasons why keeping your Great Dane’s nails healthy is so important:

    • It helps prevent pain and discomfort: If your dog’s nails are too long, they can begin to curl under and grow into the pads of their feet. This can cause your dog a great deal of pain and discomfort.
    • It prevents infection: Long or overgrown nails can also lead to infection. This is because the nail beds become irritated and inflamed, which provides the perfect environment for bacteria to grow.
    • It helps them move more comfortably: Overgrown nails can make it difficult for your dog to walk and run comfortably. This is because they put pressure on the toe joints, which can lead to pain and discomfort.
    • It improves their appearance: Let’s face it, overgrown nails are not a good look! Not only do they affect your dog’s appearance, but they can also be quite painful.
    Toenail Problems

    So, as you can see, there are many reasons why keeping your Great Dane’s nails healthy is so important. But how do you go about doing that? Read on to find out!

    GREAT DANE TOENAIL PROBLEMS: HOW TO PREVENT THEM

    Broken nails, brittle nails and other nail issues are far too common with dogs.

    Toenail Problems

    But there are ways to prevent these problems from occurring. Here are a few tips:

    1. Keep them trimmed: One of the best ways to keep your Dane’s nails healthy is to keep them trimmed on a regular basis. You can do this yourself at home with a nail clipper or you can take them to a groomer. If you’re not comfortable trimming your dog’s nails, then we recommend taking them to a groomer. They will be able to quickly and safely trim your dog’s nails without causing any pain or discomfort.
    2. Use the right products: It is important that you use the right products when trimming your Great Dane’s nails. We recommend using a nail grinder instead of a nail clipper. This is because it is much easier to control and prevents you from accidentally cutting too close to the quick (the blood vessel in the nail).
    3. Be careful: When trimming your Great Dane’s nails, it is important to be careful. You don’t want to cut too close to the quick as this can cause a great deal of pain. If you are unsure of how to properly trim your Great Dane’s nails, we recommend seeking out professional help. following these simple tips, you can help keep your Great Dane’s nails healthy and avoid any potential problems.
    4. Start Young: It is important to start taking care of your Great Danes nails at a young age. This will get them used to the process and make it easier for you in the long run.
    5. Be Consistent: Once you start taking care of your Great Dane’s nails, it is important to be consistent. This means trimming them on a regular basis (every two to three weeks is ideal).
    6. Don’t be Lazy: Nail trimming requires that owners take care of their fur babies nails REGULARLY, and that means every single week if not twice a week. Don’t be lazy! 🙂 It just never works out.
    7. Use a Veterinarian: If you or your pet are fearful when it comes to their feet, call your Veterinarian! They can help you!

    TRIMMING YOUR GREAT DANES NAILS

    Toenail Problems

    If you fail to trim your Great Danes nails, they will get broken nails and it can become extremely painful.

    Nail health doesn’t need to be super complex.

    In order to trim your dog’s toenails, you need to decide on a product that works for you and your pet.

    There are two main types of nail grooming supplies: the Dremmel and clippers.

    NAIL DREMMEL FOR PETS

    Using a Dremel is something that many pet owners prefer as they can control the length of the nail bed more easily with this tool.

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    Since the Dremmel is automatic, it can be loud, but that does not mean it is painful.

    Some find that it is less likely to cause human error than clippers.

    When using a Dremmel, take the paw of your dog and begin to file one nail at a time. If your dog is afraid of the Dremmel, you will want to start slow. File only one nail on the first day, and proceed with another nail the next day.

    THE BEST NAIL CLIPPERS AND FILERS FOR BIG DOGS
    GREAT DANE NAIL TOOLS
    HOW TO TRIM YOUR PUPPIES NAILS
    HOW TO STRENGTHEN YOUR DOG’S FEET

    If your dog is extremely scared of the tool, you can begin by handling its paw and getting it used to the feeling of you touching its paw or leg nearby its toe.

    IS MY DOG AFRAID OR AGGRESSIVE?

    Over time, with practice you can get your dog to feel less nervous about the tool and you will be able to file back nails much quicker.

    CLIPPERS FOR DOGS

    Clippers are another tool used to cut the nails of your dog.

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    READ MORE ABOUT TOOLS WE RECOMMEND FOR TRIMMING HERE

    Clippers are less expensive than a Dremmel and can be found at most stores.

    They are also much quieter which may help your dog feel more comfortable.

    To use clippers, you will want to find a type that is comfortable for you to hold.

    You will also want to make sure the blades are sharp so that you can get a clean cut on the nail.

    Start by gently holding your dog’s paw in your hand and proceed to clip one nail at a time being very careful not to cut too close to the quick (blood vessel).

    BLEEDING NAILS WITH CLIPPERS

    If you do accidentally cut the quick, it will bleed and be painful for your dog, but the bleeding does not mean that the nail is broken.

    Applying pressure with a styptic pencil or cornstarch can help stop the bleeding paw at the first sign and help the foot to feel better in no time.

    You can use Kwik Stop as a safe and nontoxic method to solve the bleeding.

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    BROKEN TOENAIL ISSUES

    Typically, broken toenail issues come when a dog has been running and hits its toe or nails on something.

    This can cause the nail to crack, splinter, or even fall off.

    Toenail Problems

    If this happens, you will want to clean up the broken nail as fast as you can because your dog can get a bacterial nail bed infection. Cleaning the paw, foot and nail can help prevent the broken nail from getting an infection or continued bleeding.

    You will also want to keep an eye on the broken nail as it may need to be removed if it does not heal properly.

    WHY DOES MY DOG GET BLEEDING OR BROKEN NAILS?

    If you have a dog who consistently has a breakage issue on their nail, their nails are most likely just too long. However, it can also happen from a loose nail grabbing on to something when your dog is running.

    Toenail Problems

    THE NAIL ON YOUR DOGS FOOT IS JUST TOO LONG

    One of the primary reasons for keeping their nails short is to prevent this from happening.

    If you find that your dog’s nails are too long and causing them issues, you will want to take them to the vet or a professional groomer to have them trimmed down.

    This is a quick and easy fix that can save your dog from a lot of discomfort in the future.

    There are many reasons why your dog may have broken or bleeding nails, but the most common reason is because their nails are too long.

    Toenail Problems

    If you find that your dog’s nails are causing them discomfort, you should take them to the vet or a professional groomer to have them trimmed down.

    This is a quick and easy fix that can save your dog from a lot of discomfort in the future.

    A NAIL GETTING SNAGGED ON SOMETHING

    Another reason that a dog can break a nail is if they catch their nail on something while running and get pulled the wrong way, even if their nail is not too long.

    If this happens, you will want to clean up the broken nail as fast as you can because your dog can get a bacterial nail bed infection.

    Cleaning the paw, foot and nail can help prevent the broken nail from getting an infection or continued bleeding.

    SKIN ISSUES

    Some dogs are very prone to skin issues. (How to Solve Skin Issues in Dogs)

    If your pet has dry, itchy skin there are some things you can try before going to a Veterinarian.

    1. Work on decreasing grains and increasing fatty acids and vitamins into their diet. (Fish Oil)
    2. Rinse your dog off with warm water every time you are outside. Environmental allergies play a huge role in skin disease and can be so easily eliminated with a quick rinse.
    3. If your pup’s skin around their nails are causing them discomfort, you should take them to the vet or a professional groomer to have them trimmed down. This is a quick and easy fix that can save your dog from a lot of discomfort in the future. You will also want to keep an eye on the broken nail as it may need to infection.
    4. Use a soothing home remedy like aloe vera or coconut oil, which has fungal fighting properties, to help ease the discomfort of yeast or chronic allergies.
    5. Using CBD can be a tremendous relief for dogs suffering with a constant itch. (Read more about CBD here)

    If you have tried to solve skin issues with your pet and are still having trouble, you can visit a Veterinary Dermatologist whom are experts in all things skin disease and can help your pup live an itch free life.

    NAIL DISORDERS IN DOGS

    Some dogs have nail disorders that can cause pain or infection.

    PARONYCHIA IN DOGS

    The most common form of nail disorder in dogs is called paronychia, which is an infection of the nail.

    Paronychia can be caused by bacteria, yeast, or even a foreign object such as a splinter.

    Toenail Problems

    If you think your dog may have paronychia, you should take them to the vet so they can prescribe the appropriate course of treatment.

    Treatment of Paronychia infection consists of antibiotics and/or antifungals depending on the causative agent. Antifungals will be required if the infection consists of a fungal infection.

    In severe cases, your dog may need to have their nail removed.

    NAIL BED TUMORS IN DOGS

    Nail bed tumors are growths that can form on the nail bed and are usually benign (non-cancerous).

    However, they can be painful and cause infection.

    Treatment of nail bed tumors usually involves surgery to remove the growth.

    Toenail Problems

    After the surgery, your dog will need to take antibiotics to prevent infection and pain medication to keep them comfortable.

    Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to keeping your pooch’s nails healthy.

    You can prevent most problems by keeping their nails trimmed and avoiding any potential injuries.

    If you do notice any problems with your Great Dane’s nails, be sure to take them to the vet so they can be treated as soon as the infection of the nail is noticed. Early detection and diagnostic testing is key to helping your dog quickly overcome a nail bed tumor, and when left untreated , these tumors can metastasize and become malignant.

    OTHER NAIL DISORDERS IN DOGS

    Other nail disorders in dogs include:

    1. Nail bed infections
    2. Nail bed bruising
    3. Nail bed ulcers
    4. Tumors of the nail bed
    5. Yeast infection in the dogs nail

    Having a nail disorder is very uncommon. Most of the time, treating your dog with a good, weekly nail trim is the solution and a great treatment plan for most of their paw problems.

    DOES DIET PLAY A ROLE IN NAIL CONDITION?

    Diet is correlated to a dog’s paws or feet?

    You might be surprised to find out that your pet health in entirety is highly correlated to their diet, including their feet.

    Toenail Problems

    A diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients helps to keep all systems of the body functioning properly, including the nails.

    Poor nutrition can lead to a number of problems, including brittle nails that are more susceptible to breaking.

    If you are concerned about your dog’s diet and how it may be affecting their nails, talk to your family veterinarian or hire a canine nutritionist to help you create a high quality diet for your dog.

    SUPPLEMENTS TO HELP A DOG WITH THEIR SKIN AND NAIL HEALTH

    If you have a dog who has skin, paws, hair, or nail issues, there are a few easy supplements that you can add into their diet that will help them.

    1. Fish oil will not only help your Great Dane have softer fur and skin, but help their paws stay moisturized. Fish oil can be a great support for hair loss as well.
    2. Coconut oil is another great option for a topical treatment you can apply directly to their paws or coat. Not only does it smell amazing, but it has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help prevent infections.
    3. You can also give your dog biotin supplements, which are often recommended for humans who want to grow long and healthy nails. Biotin is a water soluble vitamin that helps the body metabolize fats and proteins, and it’s essential for nail growth. You can find biotin supplements at your local pet store or online.
    4. Probiotics are a great way to help support your Great Dane with their gut health, which is connected to their overall health. Good gut health is a way to support allergies including dry skin or paws and itchy skin.

    HOW TO KEEP BLACK NAILS GROOMED?

    If your Great Dane has nails that are black in color, you might be wondering how you’re supposed to keep them looking nice and groomed.

    Toenail Problems

    The good news is that black nails are actually very easy to take care of. All you need is a little bit of time and the right tools, and you’ll have your Great Dane’s nails looking great in no time.

    Here are a few tips for taking care of black nails:

    1. Start by desensitizing your pet to the tool that you’d like to use (clippers, file, dremel, etc). Desensitization is key with any grooming tool, but it’s especially important with black nails because owners can be more timid to trim them, which dogs can pick up on.
    2. Clip your Great dane’s nails in short increments, being very careful not to cut too deep. If you do accidentally cut the quick, stop clipping and use styptic powder, Kwik Stop, or cornstarch to stop the bleeding.
    3. Do not try to trim multiple nails in one session if your Great Dane or pet is nervous. Just start with one!
    4. To find the quick of a nail that is black, hold the nail up to a light source. The quick will appear as a dark line running through the center of the nail.
    5. Use a high-quality nail clipper designed specifically for dogs, and make sure that it is sharp. This will help you get a clean cut and avoid splitting or cracks in the nails. If your Great Dane’s nails
    6. Use a file to smooth out any rough edges on the nails.

    It takes practice for both owner and dog, but if you start trimming your Great Dane’s nails as a puppy it is much easier and become like second nature over time.

    So, there you have it! A few things to keep in mind when it comes to keeping nails healthy. By keeping an eye on their nails and being proactive about trimming them down, you can help prevent any problems in the future. Thanks for reading!

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    READ MORE ABOUT NAIL HEALTH HERE: Great Dane Toenail Problems: How to Keep Your Dog’s Nails Healthy
  • The 7 Best Dog Nail Clippers: Great Dane Toenail Problems

    The 7 Best Dog Nail Clippers: Great Dane Toenail Problems

    Great Dane toenail problems: broken toenails, infected feet, or worse. If you’ve stumbled upon this page you’re probably having an issue with your Great Dane’s toenails.

    Great Dane Toenail Problems
    Great Dane Toenail Problems

    Great Dane Toenail Problems: Why Do Great Dane’s Nails Need Trimmed?

    Great Dane’s nails need trimmed regularly, despite it being a common issue with pet owners.

    Dog’s nails can develop all sorts of problems when grown too long. Long nails can create infection, conformation issues and pain.

    Overgrown nails are not a fun problem to deal with. So, if you have a big dog, you should be proactive at finding the right toe nail clippers for dogs that work for you and your dog’s nails.

    Large Clippers for Large Dogs Nails

    Large dogs need larger nail clippers that will be able to cut through thicker nails.

    You might not be able to use the same grooming tool with a small breed dogs nails as you will with your Great dane’s nails. Be sure you are using adult dog nail clippers.

    Large breed dogs are just that: large! With that, dog owners have a responsibility to these fun, thick nails.

    Great Dane Toenail Problems
    Great Dane Toenail Problems

    Millers Forge Nail Trimmer for Great Danes

    Here is one of our recommended dog nail clippers. The first grooming tool we find best if you’re looking for a nail trimmer for your Great Dane is the Millers Forge Nail Trimmer.

    These nail clippers are great for Great Dane’s paws as they are able to cut through tough nails. The Miller Forge blades stay sharp and most dogs tolerate this nail clipper very well.

    When used with large breed dogs, the safety guard comes in handy as it helps dog owners protect the dog’s quick from getting cut.

    Dog owners also report that this nail clipper does not break easily, which we know is a must for Great Danes.

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    Safari Professional Nail Clipper for Great Dane’s nails

    Next up is the highly rated Safari Professional nail clipper.

    This nail clipper is good on tough nails and will work to get large dog nails short and clean.

    The scissor style clippers are helpful when you’re trying to get your dog’s nails trimmed by yourself as we all know nail trimming is never an easy chore.

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    The sharp blades are not something to worry about as the nail file comes with a safety stop that allows you to get the dog nails clipped without pain.

    Boshel Safety Guard Nail Clippers

    The Boshel Safety Guard Great Dane Nail Clippers are a great choice of dog nail clippers.

    The Boshel Great Dane nail clippers have stainless steel blades, but that does not mean it is going to hurt your dog.

    With an easy grip and safety lock, pet parents say that they feel comfortable using these to trim their dogs nails.

    Also, there is a file attached on the back of this dog nail clipper, so you can file down any loose ends after you’re done.

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    These nail clippers are strong and sturdy for a Great Dane.

    If you are looking for nail clippers that have

    Gopets Nail Clippers

    Gopets Dog Nail Clippers are adjustable nail clippers, which means you can adjust them to the length of nail that your Great Dane has.

    The benefit of the Gopets Nail Clippers is that you don’t have to worry about hurting them or making them bleed when trying to get your Great Dane to sit still for trimming.

    These Great Dane nail clippers are a great choice for any parent trying to trim the nails of their Great Dane at home.

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    GoPets Dog Nail Trimmer

    Epica Nail Trimmer for Great Dane Nails

    The Epica Nail Trimmer is one of the most popular nail trimmers for Great Dane nails.

    These nail trimmers have sharp blades and are scissor clippers.

    If you have a Great Dane you know that some Great Danes are afraid of nail trimming as well as loud sounds, so the discrete scissor style clippers are helpful when it comes to a grooming tool. They are the perfect dog nail clippers for scared dogs.

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    If you notice that during nail trimming your Great Dane’s nails are extremely thick, you might want to pursue this dog nail clipper, as it has been said that they have very sharp blades compared to others.

    Casfuy Dog Nail Grinder

    The Casfuy Dog Nail Grinder is a dog nail grinder that comes at a more affordable price.

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    The Casfuy Dog Nail Grinder is, unlike nail clippers, more of a dremel tool.

    If sharp edges of a nail file make you uneasy, you might prefer the grinder to a standard nail clipper.

    Most dogs can get used to a grinder, but many dogs might need some time and patience with the sound of it.

    Start with one paw at a time to prevent over trimming and prevent your dog from getting stressed out from the tool.

    You will notice your dog’s nails quickly getting shorter with a dog nail grinder.

    Standard Dremel Tool

    If you know that you prefer a nail grinder over nail clippers for your Great Dane, but aren’t sure which dog nail grinder is best, you might be interested in a standard Dremel tool.

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    Although it is not designed to be used on dogs, we believe it is the best nail grinder as it has the power for a Great Dane’s nails and will make nail clipping so much easier.

    When it comes to nail grinders, big dogs need big tools. And, what is more powerful for your dogs nails than a Dremel power tool?

    If you are worried about your dog allowing you to use the Dremel, just go slowly and only do one nail at a time. Use lots of treats and reward your dog so that they don’t associate the sound of the tool with anything negative.

    Keep a good grip on both your dog’s nails and any nail grinders so that you grind only your dog’s nail.

    You might be surprised that your Great Dane doesn’t mind the nail clipping at all.

    First Aid for a Bleeding Dog’s Nails

    If you used nail clippers or a nail grinder and your dog’s nail is bleeding, don’t worry.

    Dogs nails have something called a ‘quick’ inside of it, which should not be trimmed with either traditional clippers or a dremel.

    However, if you do touch that part of the nail on accident, you shouldn’t panic. Dogs might flinch or even yelp, but it will not hurt them or their nails in the long run.

    You can use this product, called Kwik Stop, to help the bleeding stop on your dog quicker.

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    Both you and your dog will be happier once the nail has stopped bleeding!

    Going to a Grooming Salon with Your Great Dane

    Great Dane Toenail Problems

    If you are completely uncomfortable for any reason to trim your dog’s nails, you should find a professional groomer in your area that can provide regular groomings.

    Any dog needs to have their nails trimmed with either nail clippers or a grinder regularly.

    Nail clipping should be done often so that their nail does not ever touch the ground.

    The only downside of using a Nail Groomer is that you might not be able to take your dog as often as you’d like their nails to be clipped.

    Sometimes, your local pet store will also provide you with help to get your Great Dane groomed and even show you how to use the nail clippers if you need help.

    Getting Started with Your Great Dane

    It isn’t always easy to have a Great Dane, but with all dogs comes dog responsibility.

    There are a ton of Great Dane nail clippers out there to make your life easier while working on getting those nails shorter.

    Good luck!

    READ MORE:

    The 2 Sided Debate: Great Dane Ear Cropping

  • Great Dane Nail Clippers

    Great Dane nail clippers can be hard to find. Whether you have a Great Dane or another breed of dog, keeping their nails trimmed is an important part of their grooming. Not only does it keep them looking nice, but it also helps to prevent injuries and keeps their nails from getting too long. If you’re looking for the best nail clippers for your Great Dane, look no further! In this blog post, we will recommend three different types of clippers that are perfect for large dogs.

    Great Dane T-Shirts
    Want a Great Dane T-Shirt? Click Here!

    Great Dane’s Nails

    Great Dane Nail Clipper
    How to Trim a Great Dane Puppy’s Nails
    Great Dane Nail Clipper
    Great Dane Nail Trimming

    Great Dane’s paws have very large dog nails which need regular nail trimming. A Great Dane’s nails are usually black, but can be lighter colored. The dewclaw is the fifth toe on a Great Dane’s paw.

    This nail sometimes grow much faster than the other nails. It can be a difficult task to trim the dewclaw. However, if you avoid hitting the dog’s quick and make a clean cut, it will cause no discomfort at all.

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    Sometimes, Dewclaws get broken more easily than the other nails.

    Many dogs nail care can be easier, since their paws are smaller than the Great Danes. Great Danes require regular nail clipping. A Great Danes nails will grow quickly and require trimming on a regular basis.

    If you do not conduct regular trimming, the dog’s nails can become painful and it will be harder for them to avoid injury when running and playing. Also, you should work to get your Great Danes nails trimmed in a stress free way as often as possible so that they do not have a hard time when it is clipping time.

    Great Dane Nail Trimmer

    It is important to trim a Great Dane’s nails every two to three weeks, depending on how fast they grow. Clipping your Great Dane’s nails is not as difficult as it may seem. You just need the right tools and a little bit of practice. With the proper nail clippers, you can easily trim your Great Dane’s nails at home.

    Large Breed Dog Nail Tips

    Great Dane Nail Clippers are the same as a regular dog nail clipper, except they might be made for a large breed. Since Great Danes are a heavier breed, their nails are tougher and require a more powerful clipper.

    Great Dane Nail Trimmers

    If you have a Great Dane, they often require a different dog nail grinder. Some owners of big dogs have a hard time clipping their own dog’s nails. However, with a few tips we can help you eliminate all fear and work to trim your own large breed nails at home.

    Is Nail Trimming Painful for a Great Dane?

    Great Dane Nail Trimmers
    Interested in what food is best for your Great Dane? Be sure to read our guide.

    Nail clipping is something that many pet owners fear. Great Dane care is often more work since an uncomfortable dane does not often show good behavior. When using a nail file appropriate for Great Dane nails you can rest assured that your dog will not be experiencing pain.

    Great Dane Supplements
    Know Your Great Dane's Needs. Read our Supplement Guide Here.

    Long nails are often harder to trim on dogs. The blood vessel in a dogs nails travel towards the tip of a dog’s nail. This is called the ‘quick’. When clipping, it is important to trim around the blood vessel. If appropriately trimming, your dog will get its nails clipped in a comfortable position with absolutely no pain.

    What type of nail clippers are best for a Great Dane?

    Great Dane Nail Clippers
    Millers Forge Steel Pet Nail Clipper with a Safety Stop

    There are many types of nail clippers on the market. Let’s discuss some of the best nail clippers or best nail file for your Great Dane’s nails. When choosing a type of nail clipper, you should take into account the size and strength of your dog’s nails.

    Great Dane’s have large, tough nails. Therefore, you will need a powerful clipper that can handle their nails. There are also alternative tools such as a nail grinder, scissor style clippers, the Dremel tool, and other clippers. We will discuss which Great Dane nail clippers and nail grinders we prefer. Then, you can make the best choice for your Great Dane.

    Great Dane Clippers
    Great Dane Clippers

    We recommend a nail clipper with sharp edges to trim your dane. Clipping will become easier if your nail clipper will stay sharp while working around the dog nail.

    One of our favorite Great Dane nail clippers is the Millers Forge Steel Pet Nail Clipper with a Safety Stop Bar. This grooming tool is an excellent nail clipper because it is able to surround the dog’s nail but also has the ability to trim without accidentally clipping the quick. We really like the safety stop on these nail clippers because then you don’t risk cutting the quick.

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    Purchase Millers Forge Clippers Here

    Using a Dremel for Great Dane’s Nails

    The next tool we will discuss is what we believe to be the best nail grinder for a Great Dane. We think the best nail grinder is the Dremel Paw Control Dog Nail Grinder. This grinder is very easy to use and has a powerful motor that can quickly grind down your dog’s nails. It also has a guard to protect your dog’s quick.

    Great Dane Nail Dremel
    Look for Great Dane Nail Dremels Here.

    We really like this grinder because it is very easy to use and control. The pros of the Dremel is that you can have control over your dog’s paw and nail more easily. With clippers it can be easier to cut into the dane nails, but with a Dremel, you can more slowly and carefully grind away at the nails. With a large Great Dane, having a nail grinder can help owners feel more in control and less nervous.

    Great Dane Nail Clippers

    Dremeling a dog’s nails is perfectly safe if you are using the proper tools and taking the necessary precautions. We recommend only using a Dremel on your Great Dane if you feel comfortable doing so.

    Myth or Fact: My dog will file its own nails by going for frequent walks on pavement. Myth! Unfortunately, this is a myth. Going for walks on pavement will not help your dog’s nails to naturally file down. In fact, it can actually cause more damage and breakage to their nails. If you want to help your dog’s nails stay healthy, we recommend using a nail file or grinder specifically designed for dogs.

    Is it okay to use a regular / power tool Dremel vs. the Dremel Paw Control Dog Nail Grinder?

    Great Dane Nail Dremel

    Absolutely! Some dogs have extremely strong nails! For some dogs, a standard Great Dane nail clipper or scissor style clippers are just not powerful enough. The Dremel Paw Control is significantly less powerful than a standard Dremel Power Tool.

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    For those that might like to move as quickly as possible with the nail grooming process with their Great Dane, the standard Dremel Power Tool is a better option. Additionally, we have noticed that this tool is quieter than the Paw Control.

    If your Great Dane is sensitive to noise, you will want to get the Dremel Power Tool and not the Paw Control. The power tool can be found on Amazon (linked here), or at any hardware shop or website such as Home Depot. Dremel on Home Depot Website, linked here.

    Are you interested in e collar training your dog? Be sure to snag our 81 page training guide. You will not regret it!

    There are also some cons to using a Dremel on your dog’s nails. The biggest con is that it can be really loud. If your dog is scared of loud noises, then this might not be the best option for you. Another con is that it takes a little bit of practice to get used to using a Dremel.

    Great Dane Nail Clippers
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    You don’t want to accidentally hurt your dog while you are trying to trim their nails. We recommend that you practice on a very low level first or get someone else to help you before using a Dremel on your dog’s nails.

    If you have never trimmed your Great Dane’s nails before, we recommend that you have someone else help you or take your dog to a professional groomer. They will be able to trim your dog’s nails quickly and efficiently without hurting them.

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    However, it is great if pet parents clip their own dog’s nails. Great job working with your dogs!

    Note: Here is a great website that speaks to the importance of cutting dogs nails as well as gives a tutorial using a Dremel Dog Nail Grinder: Big Dog Mom, How to Cut Big Dog Nails.

    Great Dane’s require special care when it comes to their nails. With the right tools and some practice, you will be able to quickly and easily trim.

    Can Dog Owners Trim their own Dogs nails?

    The answer is YES! If you have the right tools, it is not difficult to trim your own dog’s nails. Start by getting your dog used to the idea of nail clipping. You can do this by gently touching their paws and nails so they get used to the sensation.

    If your Great Dane is afraid of the nail clipper, you can try desensitizing them by letting them see and smell the clipper before you use it. Once your dog is comfortable with the idea of nail clipping, you can begin trimming their nails.

    When trimming your Great Dane’s nails, it is important to avoid the quick. The quick is the blood vessel in the nail tips and if you accidentally clip it, it will be painful for your dog. To avoid the quick, you can use a nail grinder or Dremel tool to slowly grind down the nails instead of clipping them. This method takes longer but is less likely to cause pain.

    If you do choose to clip your Great Dane’s nails, we recommend finding a pair of clippers or a dog nail grinder that your pet is most comfortable with. Since your dog is afraid of discomfort, make sure that you are extra careful not to clip the quick. Take your time, and if you’re not sure, ask a professional groomer or vet for help.

    Steps to Trimming at Home

    If you are eager to work with your Great Dane and file their nails at home, here are some steps to getting started.

    1. Begin by finding a comfortable spot on the floor.
    2. With your dane, make a choice as to whether you will use clippers or a grinder.
    3. Get plenty of treats ready.
    4. Start with just one paw, and slowly introduce your dog to the sensation of having their nails trimmed.
    5. Use your Great Dane nail clipper or dog nail grinder and work to clip just one nail at a time!
    6. Work up to trimming all of their nails in one session.
    7. You may need to try out a different grooming tool one day than the next to see which one both you and your dog prefers.
    8. Practice clipping using Great Dane nail clippers and see how your dog reacts. Then use a nail file to see if that seems better! If they don’t respond well to those tools, you can try different nail grinders. Every dog has a different tolerance to clippers vs. grinders, so be patient!
    9. When you are done, give your dog lots of love and treats!
    Nail Clippers for Great Danes
    Is your dog in pain? Laser therapy may help!

    Regular nail trims are an important part of taking care of your Great Dane! So, whether you decide to go to a grooming salon for your Great Dane or file your dogs nails at home, make sure to keep up with this important grooming task.

    What Happens if Your Dog’s Nails Bleed During Nail Trimming?

    When it comes to nail clipping, there are a few things you should avoid. First of all, do not try to clip all of your dog’s nails in one sitting. This will only overwhelm them and make the experience more difficult. Over time, you can work up to trimming all of their nails in one session.

    Nail Clippers for Great Danes

    Secondly, make sure you avoid the quick. The quick is the blood vessel in the nail tips and if you accidentally clip it, it will be painful for your dog. If this happens, use a styptic pencil or cornstarch to stop the bleeding. Finally,

    We recommend NOT using any Great Dane nail clipper that has sharp blades in order to avoid injury. If you accidentally touch your Great Dane on the ‘quick’, their sensitive dane nail may begin to bleed.

    Do not panic!

    You may think that your pet is incomplete and utter pain. But actually, this is not the case! Although a dog’s nail is very sensitive at the quick due to increased blood vessels, it is actually not as painful for their nails as we think. Many veterinarians actually state that hitting the quick bothers humans more than the dogs.

    Products to Stop the Bleed

    If your dog’s nail begins to bleed, there are a few things you can do to ease their pain (and bleeding).

    First, use a styptic pencil or cornstarch to stop the bleeding. These are considered a binding agent and will help their bleeding stop.

    Great Dane Nail Bleeding Blood Stop Powder
    Blood Stop Powder, Shop Here

    Put your dog’s nail in the cornstarch or cover their nail with Syptic Powder. You will be amazed at how quickly their nail stops bleeding.

    Great Dane Nails - Syptic Powder Stop the bleed
    Syptic Powder – Stop the Bleed – Shop Here

    Use treats on a regular basis if you find your Dane having any form of discomfort. Sit on the floor with your pet to help them have a positive experience with nail clipping. Most of all, know that dogs can pick up on your energy. If they sense that you are nervous, they will also be scared. Go into the experience with a stress free attitude and they will be less stressed.

    To Wrap It Up

    Trimming your Great Dane’s nails doesn’t have to be a difficult or painful task. Gaining the confidence to trim your Great Dane’s nails with either nail clippers or a grinder will take time, but it is important for the health and wellbeing of your pet. With a little bit of patience and practice, you will be able to trim your Great Dane’s nails like a pro in no time!

    If you have any questions or concerns about trimming your Great Dane’s nails, please feel free to reach out to us!

  • What to Expect When You Bring a Great Dane Puppy Home

    What to Expect When You Bring a Great Dane Puppy Home

    Knowing what to expect with a Great Dane puppy is near to impossible!

    There is almost nothing more special (and unpredictable) than a Great Dane puppy! There is this insane time where your new puppy seems to grow right in front of your eyes.

    Bring a Great Dane Puppy Home

    Since we’ve recently been through the crazy new dane puppy phase, we thought it would be a great time to talk about what to expect when you bring a Great Dane puppy home!

    Great Dane Puppy Growth Chart
    Puppy Socialization Guide
    Is My Great Dane Puppy Knuckling?
    How to Prevent Knuckling in Great Dane Puppies
    Is My Great Dane Puppy Too Small?
    Great Dane Puppy Growth Chart
    Is My Puppy Too Skinny?

    Bring a Great Dane Puppy Home

    GREAT DANE PUPPIES ARE INFANTS

    When you bring a Great Dane puppy into your home, you are literally bringing an infant to the family!

    They know absolutely nothing.

    What they DO know is that:

    • They are hungry
    • They can squat and pee comes out
    • You are warm
    • Biting is fun
    • The big dog they saw was scary
    • They can squat and more pee comes out
    • They are still hungry
    • Your food smells good
    • Did I mention that they squat and pee comes out?

    What they DO NOT know is that:

    • Shoes are not chew toys
    • Water bowls should not be tipped over
    • Obedience training is not a game
    • The house does not actually belong to them
    • Dog food is not at their disposal whenever they want
    • Eating the couch / wall / blankets / etc. is not allowed
    • Peeing in the living area isn’t fun or funny
    • Their collar won’t hurt them
    • Naughty behavior isn’t their full time job

    As you can see- teeny puppies are FULL of behavioral problems that when you really get to thinking about it– are not actually problems at all.

    More simply, it’s just a puppy dane in a new environment where every single turn down a new hallway is a whole new world.

    Keeping this perspective with your little dane will help you gain empathy, be more prepared, and grow your Great Dane puppy into a strong and confident adult Great Dane.

    THE FIRST NIGHT

    The first night the puppy is either going to sleep well and TRICK you into thinking they are perfect, or they are going to cry and cry and cry.

    Either way, just know that they are likely NOT going to be good sleepers for quite some time.

    If you think bringing home a dane puppy is stressful for you and your family, just try putting yourself in their paws.

    They’ve left their mom, pack, and previous house / life. Their breeder whom raised them said goodbye, and to them, that was their safe place.

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    So, get ready to spend time creating a bond and relationship that begins this first night and transpires over the course of your Great Danes life.

    Also- keep in mind- this phase moves FAST! Before you know it, your pup is going to be HUGE!

    WHO IS THE BIGGEST GREAT DANE?

    What To Do The First Night With Your New Puppy:

    Make sure they have warm bedding, a full tummy, and your comfort. Touch their crate, sleep near them until they learn that this new place isn’t so scary after all. Remember, less than 24 hours ago your puppy was cuddled up with littermates!

    Don’t have a crate yet? You’re going to want one! Crates can help with managing behaviors (peeing, chewing, biting) and give your pup a calm space to lay down and nap.

    We’ve included a link to a helpful article for you, How to Crate Train a Great Dane Puppy the right way!

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    Shop for the best crate for Great Danes on Amazon

    PEE & POOP EVERYWHERE

    We hope you are aren’t too attached to your carpet, because that puppy is going to find a way to pee on it whether you like it or not.

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    Great Dane Farts: A Compilation of the Best Farts on the Internet

    These little guys have absolutely NO knowledge of their bladder and no control at all. They have to pee and it just happens. Same deal with poop.

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    Poop Bags

    PRO TIP: turn the auto-schedule off on your robot vacuum. Can we say ‘poop painting’?

    Don’t expect consistency and reliability with potty training until at least 4-5 months of age, and that’s only if you have been diligent with training and management.

    And yes, they do pee when they get excited.

    When potty training, be prepared to be VERY consistent with frequent bathroom breaks (and I mean VERY frequent). For the first week, it is significantly better if you do not have to leave your dane alone at the house and are able to let them potty as often as every 20 minutes.

    In the long run, this intensive training upfront will help you set up a solid foundation for your Great Dane.

    Cleaning Supplies

    Remember all of that pee and poop? You’re likely going to need some cleaning supplies on hand to take care of that. Waste bags, odor eliminator, and some toxin free basic cleaning items are nice to keep on hand when bringing home a puppy.

    All dogs are very messy- but a puppy is often outlandishly so.

    Just gear up to spend about 50% of your life cleaning up after your dane puppy- but don’t worry, the bigger they get they tend to get less messy. Just kidding of course, Great Danes are pretty much ALWAYS a mess!

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    Natures Miracle Stain and Odor Remover

    NEEDLES FOR TEETH

    Puppy teeth are SHARP! If you’ve never been around a dane puppy, you might want to plan ahead and buy some bandaids.

    Imagine owning a shark with a mouth full of needles that wants nothing more than to BITE YOU.

    Welcome to the world of having a Great Dane puppy!

    Biting is VERY normal for any puppy of any breed. It is not ‘aggressive’ behavior, it does not mean that your puppy is ‘bad’. Normally, your puppy either has a painful mouth from teething, etc. or they are just simply trying to play.

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    How to Stop Puppy Biting

    To work on stopping the bite, provide plenty of strong toys for your puppy. Giving your dog lots of exercise and mental engagement can also help them to feel fulfilled in other areas and not feel the need to bite everything else in the house- including yourself!

    Tips for Stopping Your Great Dane Puppy from Biting:

    1. Keep as many chew proof dog toys in the house
    2. Exercise your dane puppy often
    3. Get mental brain games and toys for your dane
    4. Feed your dane with a slow feeder or puzzle
    5. Keep baby gates up around children or small kids
    6. Get started with training early and practice obedience skills continually with puppies

    Read our ‘How to stop puppy biting’ article here.

    START SAYING NO

    Pet owners, get ready to SAY NO! But, not to your dane puppy. To the humans!

    Everybody is going to want to love on the puppy and meet him or her. Make sure you don’t overwhelm your new puppy with too many sights, sounds and experiences! They need lots and lots of sleep and lots of time to learn your routine.

    You do NOT need to rush to the dog park for fear that your Great Dane will be scared of other pets or ‘unsocialized’.

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    Should I Take My Great Dane to the Dog Park?

    Try taking your puppy on a walk: INSIDE YOUR HOUSE! Practice using the leash and gearing up for the big day when you take them on leash for a real walk outside (which should be done shortly after bringing your dog home).

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    Tips for Leash Training Great Danes

    However, remember that when you DO bring your puppy outside on a walk, you MUST be prepared to SAY NO! Having a million hands coming in to pet and touch him is not going to make him less afraid of humans, but could lead to stranger fear or reactivity.

    Dogs deserve space, trust and the ability to determine when and how they’d like to greet other dogs or humans.

    Our Great Dane Socialization guide is amazing for learning how to use modern training and socialization methods to create a confident, friendly and resilient family pet!

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    SOCIALIZATION 101

    Have a Great Dane Puppy? Check out our positive socialization guide.

    Friendly – Confident – Resilient

    GET YOUR COPY

    GET TO WORK!

    The work you are willing to put in to your Great Dane puppy is the amount of outcome you will get out of them. It’s usually as simple as that.

    Now is the time to begin training! Make sure your pup has good experiences with you and with the environment.

    Great Danes are not supposed to be fearful, timid, scared or aggressive. If you see those traits in your Great Dane puppy, start with a vet visit to rule out medical reasons.

    Training Starts on Day 1: You are Your Great Dane’s First Dog Trainer

    Basic training begins THE DAY you bring your puppy home. Training can consist of anything from learning how to play in the grass to playing appropriate with chew toys.

    Nonetheless, training should be worked on daily with the use of positive reinforcement, a large crate, and treats – lots and lots of treats. Did we mention that Great Danes LOVE treats?

    CUE THE COMMENTARY

    People will have an opinion. Here are some of our ‘favorites’ that you can expect to hear:

    Being a Dane owner comes with SO many positives, but also comes with regular dane puppy commentary. When walking your pup or spending time with your dane out in public, expect to get comments… and LOTS of them!

    You can reply with useful information or just laugh it off, but either way you should be prepared for lots of comments, conversations, and interest.

    Most people have never seen a dog as big as a Great Dane.

    SO MANY GOOFY PHOTOS

    Great Dane puppies grow alarmingly fast. One day your dog is a puppy and the next they are full grown Great Danes.

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    Great Dane Growth Chart

    Basically, they will take a 2 hour nap and WAKE UP BIGGER.

    You cannot possibly take enough photos, so clear your phone now and get ready.

    Within weeks you will no longer be able to pick your puppy up.

    They are awkward, clumsy, and take forever to grow into graceful, loping, well-muscled adults.

    The Moments Go Fast With Your Great Dane

    Take ALL THE PHOTOS. Prepare to look back and sob!

    If this is your first dane, take double as many photos and videos as you think necessary! You will want them later.

    Looking back, at the end of the first two years with your Great Dane puppy, you might think it flies by, but you’ll realize that teeny moment of actual ‘dane puppy’ lasts only a few short weeks before they outgrow themselves, unlike most pets.

    WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU BRING A GREAT DANE PUPPY HOME

    GREAT DANE PUPPY FOOD

    Your Great Dane puppy is going to eat a LOT of food, and it has to be just the right formula. The wrong food can cause knuckling, panosteitis, HOD, and other orthopedic growth problems. You will want to do immense research into what is the best food to feed your Great Dane puppy.

    The food you choose to feed fuels or does not fuel your dog, gives them energy or wears them down, creates a strong dog or creates musculoskeletal issues, helps to build a strong immune system or perpetuates sickness, etc.

    Look into every dog food you’re considering before making the choice on what food to feed your Great Dane puppy.

    Myth Busting: “My Great Dane should not eat regular puppy food. I was told that I should put them on adult dog food.” This is just not true. Science, research, and increase in the dog food market has transformed giant breed formulas into much more than it was 20 or even 15 years ago. The food that you provide your dane with should be fit for a growing Great Dane puppy. For some companies, that means the bag will say ‘large breed puppy’, and for some that means the bag will say ‘large breed adult’. It’s what is on the inside of the bag that matters, not the outside!

    For information on feeding your puppy, we recommend starting with the Great Dane Feeding Guide! We can work together to make sure your Great Dane puppy is eating the best possible choice for them, their breed, and for your family.

    ULTIMATE GREAT DANE FEEDING GUIDE

    The formulas below are what we recommend for growing Great Dane Puppies and the breed altogether. We’ve linked these photos up for you so that you can easily find them on Chewy.

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    Worried about knuckling? Great Danes are prone to certain health problems, including something called knuckling while they are growing. We’ve got resources for that, too. Because we know (speaking from experience here) that you are GOING TO WORRY!

    That’s ok. Worry is normal and means that you really care about your new Great Dane Puppy!

    IS MY GREAT DANE PUPPY KNUCKLING?

    PUPPY PROOF OR GET DESTROYED

    Get ready to puppy proof your house for your Great Dane.

    If you didn’t want your Great Dane puppy on that couch, it may be too late. (just kidding, sort of!)

    Great Danes LOVE to think that the entire house is actually THEIR house, and that includes your bed, your car, your couch, your food, anything that is on your table, and did I mention your bed?

    Training your Great Dane takes time, so in the meantime, prepare to puppy proof your house with a solid, giant crate as well as some baby gates and safe spaces for them to hang out in.

    Crate Training

    Crate training is a fabulous way to prepare both your Great Dane puppy for having some alone time and help them not develop separation anxiety (something that Great Danes are famous for), as well as keeping them safe if you need to clean, cook, go grab some thing at the store, or simply sit down and watch a movie. (Did you know that Great Danes do not think that any of those exist, because they simply have nothing to do with THEM! 🙂

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    How to crate train a Great Dane: click here

    Preparing to be able to sleep without your Great Dane

    Many Great Dane owners LOVE to sleep with their puppies. Just keep in mind your little Great Dane will soon be consuming your bed.

    We recommend utilizing a crate, but keeping it next to your bed for the comfort and security of having you nearby. Inside your crate, consider an orthopedic mat such as a Big Barker crate pad.

    Joint Disease in Your Great Dane

    Any large breed dog, including a Great Dane puppy, is predisposed to joint disease, and the best way to prepare is to prevent.

    That is why we always recommend the only orthopedic mattress on the market that has been clinically studied by veterinarians to improve the health of your dog’s joints, Big Barker.

    Have a look here:

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    1201680655684152 Big Barker 4032x3024 MQ 1.02 2 1600x
    Romp n Roll Red
    Get a FREE Jolly Ball with the purchase of a Big Barker bed.

    ENJOY YOUR PUPPY

    Your Great Dane may be frustrating at times and you may grow tired of the noise, peeing and biting but hang in there. These dogs are worth it! You’re about to fall in love with a Great Dane puppy, and truly there is really nothing better in the world.

    Prepare to never go back!

    Before you know it you’ll have a well-trained, calm adult dog and will be dreaming of the day when you will bring sweet puppy breath and snuggles into your home again.

    READ MORE:
    How to Crate Train a Great Dane Puppy
    Is My Great Dane Puppy Knuckling?
    Puppy Food for Great Danes
    How Much Do Great Danes Eat?
    Canine Good Citizen Training for Great DanesYour Puppy is Bored
    How to Choose the Best Dog Trainer

  • How to Trim Great Dane Puppy Nails

    How to Trim Great Dane Puppy Nails

    Do you want to know how to trim Great Dane puppy nails?

    They are seriously so special. Great Dane puppies change every single day. They grow so quickly and their giant feet make them extra sweet and clumsy.

    Our quick post today is all about those cute little tiny puppy toenails!

    It is SO important to start nail trims early and do them often. 

    PRO TIP: Your dog’s nails should never, ever grow so long that they touch the ground. This can cause swelling, irritation, pain, and worse: joint damage.

    How to Trim Great Dane Puppy Nails

    Supplies for Trimming Great Dane Puppy Nails

    Miller’s Forge Clippers (Red Handle). These inexpensive clippers (see on Amazon) last forever, are easy to use and stay crazy sharp.

    Dremel Tool. There are several models, including knock off versions at Walmart and even a pet-specific name brand version. You need the Dremel tool and a sander drum OR a Diamagroove.

    High Value Treats. Lots of tiny bites of something really good. Kibble isn’t going to cut it. Think Ziwi Peak, Zukes, diced chicken and freeze-dried organ meats.

    THE 7 BEST DOG NAIL TRIMMERS
    The Best Nail Tools for a Great Dane
    Nail Clippers for Great Danes

    How to Trim Great Dane Puppy Nails

    How Often Should I Trim Great Dane Nails?

    I like to trim nails every weekend. Some dogs barely need this much, other dogs need a little more. The dog in the photo above is past-due for a nail trim!

    For puppies, especially if they are under 4 months, nail trims should be a simple matter of routine. Plan to spend a few quick minutes each day introducing the concept and making it a positive experience.

    Show your puppy the Dremel and toss treats on the ground. Do this often and at random. Turn it on and toss another few treats. Keep practicing this so that the Dremel ALWAYS predicts good things.

    Make sure you give your puppy lots of praise, but don’t make a big fuss either.

    Too much fussing and excitement can make your dog resistant to the process! They don’t always understand why you are so crazy and high energy all of a sudden and may find it alarming. Be calm, patient and confident.

    If all you get is one nail trimmed, that’s progress!

    Trim the nail as close to the quick as you possibly can but avoid cutting into it.

    Make sure to round off the top, bottom and sides as well by taking tiny slivers off with the clippers or by introducing a quick buzz from the Dremel.

    As above, stay calm and follow that with praise and a treat!

    How to Trim Great Dane Puppy Nails

    Why is Nail Maintenance Important for Dogs?

    PRO TIP: If the nails are black or if you are scared of trimming, read the files in the Facebook group called ‘Nail Maintenance for Dogs‘ so that you can learn how to ‘read’ the nail. 

    Well maintained nails help keep paws neat and destruction to your home, hardwood, and skin to a minimum.  

    Overgrown nails actually change the shape of the paw. This can be extremely painful and frustrating to your dog, who doesn’t have much of a voice on this topic.

    Keep the nails trimmed so they never touch the ground.

    How to Trim Great Dane Puppy Nails

    How to Teach Your Puppy to Hate Nail trims

    Ok we joke. You do NOT want your Great Dane to hate nail trims, but here are some common mistakes people make that can actually make nail trims and other care behaviors extremely difficult:

    • Teaching the puppy that human hands = bad things (examples: hitting, shoving, pinching, ‘alpha’ rolling, tapping on the nose). This kind of training breeds distrust and shyness of hands.
    • Playing with the paws and annoying the puppy about it (old advice that can actually make things worse).
    • Asking the puppy to recall/COME and then forcing the puppy into a nail trim (quick way to ruin BOTH recall and nail trims!).
    • Not properly socializing the puppy to a variety of sights, sounds and experiences and helping it build confidence. Calm, mature dogs are built in confidence.
    • Believing that training is a war for power and respect, not a teacher-student relationship.

    This paw is from a five month old puppy who is being conditioned to accept weekly maintenance with the Dremel.

    There is no sharp point and the nails do not touch the ground when the puppy is standing or walking and moving.

    Over time they will be made neater, but perfection at this stage is not the goal. Keeping the nails from developing long, sharp points, and teaching the puppy to expect and accept routine maintenance is.

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    Make Nail Trims a Positive Experience

    When you finish the nail trim, even if you only got one nail done, do something FUN! Play a game, offer a really good chew in the crate, do a quick 1 minute training session with the treats you have left.

    Teach your puppy early that nail maintenance is FUN, not-negotiable, and doesn’t result in pain or fear.

    If you are really nervous about trimming the dog yourself, find a groomer. Some will come to your house, or you may have a neighbor willing to do it that will love the extra cash.

    You will still need to keep sharp points off the ground, so develop a schedule of maintenance and make sure that routine trips to the veterinarian or groomer for nail trims are part of life.

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    We highly recommend the group Nail Maintenance for Dogs on Facebook for resources, tips, and learning. This group is especially amazing if you have a dog that is afraid of nail trims.

    READ MORE:
    Great Dane Farts: The Funniest Collection of Photos and Videos on the Internet
    The Best Collars for Great Danes
    Blue Great Danes – Facts, Photos, and Care
    How to Crate Train a Great Dane Puppy
    Great Dane Not Eating – What to Do