Hello Danes

Tag: grooming

  • Adopting a Great Dane: What to Know & Expect

    Adopting a Great Dane: What to Know & Expect

    If you are considering adopting a Great Dane, we at Hello Danes LOVE you for that. There are many beautiful, wonderful Great Danes in rescue right now waiting for a new couch to lounge on. Great Danes are not for everybody though, and it’s important to know about the breed and what to expect before you commit.

    Great Danes are known for their gentle nature, imposing size, and unique characteristics. They make wonderful companions for the right owners! However, like any pet, they come with their own set of considerations and responsibilities, especially if they come from a past of neglect, abuse, and poor genetics.

    In this blog post, we’ll explore what you need to know and expect when rescuing a Great Dane!

    BONUS – I’ve included a helpful shopping list at the bottom of this post so you know exactly what to get for your Great Dane!

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    Understanding the Breed Before Adopting a Great Dane

    It is so important to know and understand what it’s like to live with a Great Dane before you adopt one. Great Danes, often referred to as “gentle giants,” possess distinct characteristics and requirements that may not align with every lifestyle. They take up a lot of space, are expensive, and can be intimidating to strangers and children. Not only that, Great Danes eat a lot of food.

    Great Dane Size

    One of the first things that come to mind when thinking about Great Danes is their size. Great Danes are HUGE.

    You may have noticed that many Great Dane rescues will not adopt Great Danes to owners with no giant breed experience; this is a big reason why. People return big dogs to rescue all of the time, not realizing how much space they take up.

    Adult Great Danes can weigh between 140 to 175 pounds or more, and they can stand over 30 inches tall at the shoulder.

    An untrained Great Dane is a danger to themselves and to others, because it’s easy for them to accidentally hurt somebody by pulling, lunging, running, and jumping.

    Many new Great Dane parents are shocked at how much space these dogs take up.

    Personally, we live in an average suburban home with an open floor plan and there are times when I just want my big male Dane to stop following me around! These dogs are human sized and you absolutely notice their presence jamming up the hallways, crowding you in the bathroom, and using up all of the space on the couch.

    We still love them for it, but you’ve been warned…

    Great Dane Personality: the Gentle Giant

    Despite their imposing stature, Great Danes are often referred to as “gentle giants.” They are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them great family pets.

    Unfortunately, many rescued Great Danes come from poor genetics and lack socialization; this can make them nervous, timid, or even reactive and aggressive. These behaviors are not normal or acceptable for Great Danes, but it is a reality for many.

    It is VERY important that you work closely with your Great Dane Rescue to make sure you are being placed with the right Great Dane for your family. Some people have a lifestyle that is conducive to adopting a fearful or reactive dog. Others do not, and that’s ok.

    We adopted one of our Great Danes in 2019. She is the most wonderful, perfect family dog despite her past history of trauma and abuse. She is gentle and loves people, kids, and other dogs. Spend time with the dog you are wishing to adopt, and get to know them! You may find a gem (just like we did).

    Great Dane Exercise Requirements

    Great Danes may be large, but they are not as high-energy as some smaller breeds. It is a huge myth, however, that they are lazy and don’t require walks or enrichment!

    My friend Natalie and I have (between the two of us) five very health, active Great Danes. We regularly meet up so they can run together. This is the only way to truly wear them out!

    Many Great Danes participate in sports such as dock diving, lure coursing, and scent tracking too. They are smart, athletic dogs for owners who allow and encourage them to be.

    If having a couch potato for a pet is a requirement for you, we highly recommend adopting an older Great Dane (age 4-5+). It’s still VERY important to keep your new Great Dane fit and lean.

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    Preparing Your Home & Budget for a Great Dane

    Crating & Space to Live

    Great Danes need ample space to move around comfortably. Make sure your living environment can accommodate their size, and create a safe space for them to eat, sleep, and play.

    We recommend a Midwest Double Door 54″ crate for your home before your Great Dane joins your family. This crate is INSANELY large but the only size that will reliability for the solid majority of Great Danes.

    See the Midwest Double Door Crate + Crate Pad on Chewy HERE

    The use of a crate can help your new Great Dane transition to your home in a safe and comfortable way. You can use a lot of positive reinforcement to introduce your new Great Dane to a crate (if the rescue hasn’t already done it for you).

    Safety & Great Dane Proofing

    Remove any hazards or items that could be harmful to a large dog, especially one that is new to your home. Until you get to know them, do not trust that your newly adopted pet to know the rules! A timid dog may bolt out the front door, and a young dog may eat your socks.

    Here are some common dangers:

    • Counter tops. Great Danes love to ‘counter surf’ and can easily snatch food from the kitchen. Get in the habit of keeping counters clear, especially of dangerous items such as chip bags (suffocation hazard), chicken carcassas (obstruction hazzard), and grapes (toxic).
    • Cords & Remotes. Most dogs do fine with these, but young dogs may chew them (and can harm themselves doing so)
    • Doors & Exit points. Especially while your pup is new to your home, it’s very important that doors and fences are secured. This extra tall pet safety gate is a helpful item to have!
    • Socks, Underwear, & Kid’s Toys. These items may be enticing for Great Danes to chew or swallow.
    • Tennis Balls. These are too small for Great Danes and honestly, the felt is bad for their teeth anyways.
    • Slippery Floors. We recommend washable rugs for cleanliness and traction.
    • Trash Cans. Lock your trash cans up with these baby proofing locks. Great Danes love to dig in the trash and many learn how to open cabinets and doors.

    Great Dane Grooming Needs

    Despite their short coat, Great Danes do shed, so regular grooming is necessary to keep their coat healthy and reduce shedding.

    That shedding ADDS UP.

    We recommend the 5″ SLEEK EZ brush for Great Danes to reduce shedding. Never use a furminator (this tool destroys the coat by cutting the fur).

    The Bissell Bark Bath is an amazing tool that allows you to bath your Great Dane at home with minimal mess.

    A nail dremel is a must; Great Danes have huge nails and regular trimmers just don’t cut it.

    What to Feed a Great Dane

    Proper nutrition is crucial for the health of any dog, but it’s especially important for large breeds like Great Danes. Consult with your veterinarian to establish a suitable diet plan based on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level. At Hello Danes, we recommend large and giant breed foods from companies that meet WSAVA guidelines.

    For ADULTS over the age of 18-24 months:

    For PUPPIES under the age of 18-24 months:

    Check out THE GIANT DOG FOOD PROJECT to compare brands and values.

    Never feed boutique or grain-free kibbles to Great Danes, and no matter what you hear, do not feed adult maintenance foods to puppies! We cover this topic in depth on this blog, utilizing science, research, and the popular opinion of board certified veterinary nutritionists. Check out our Great Dane NUTRITION posts here.

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    Health and Veterinary Care for Great Danes

    Before you adopt a Great Dane, it’s important to consider common health issues that you and your new pet may face. Great Danes are a giant breed dog that come with, well, giant health concerns.

    Common Great Dane Health Issues

    Like many large breeds, Great Danes are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, bloat, and heart conditions. Bloat (AKA “GDV”) is a deadly emergency that affects 25-50% of Great Danes in their lifetime.

    Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch any potential issues early and ensure your dog’s well-being.

    Additionally, being proactive about addressing any potential health issues early on can contribute to a longer and healthier life for your Great Dane. Lumps, bumps, sores, limping, excessive drooling, panting, pacing, chronic loose stools and whining all require veterinary attention.

    Great Danes have sensitive orthopedic needs, too! You have to take care of their joints by keeping nails short and allowing them plenty of time to play freely on soft, varied terrain.

    By subscribing to best practices (feeding a quality food, having their teeth cleaned, and keeping them lean) you can save money and your pet’s health in the long run.

    Great Dane Veterinary Care Costs

    Embracing the companionship of a Great Dane undoubtedly comes with joy and warmth, but responsible ownership also involves acknowledging the financial commitment, especially when it comes to veterinary care. Simply put, veterinary care for giant breeds costs more money than it does for small breeds.

    Routine check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive measures (such as flea and tick medication or gastropexy) are essential.

    We tell Great Dane owners to anticipate roughly $1500-$2000/year in preventive veterinary medicine (vaccines, checkups, teeth cleaning, flea/tick prevention), and keeping an emergency fund of at least $3000-$5000 (average cost for a life-threatening ER visit).

    Additionally, we recommend paying for monthly veterinary health insurance (average $150-$300/month); many plans will cover prevention, emergencies, and things like cancer (which can add up FAST).

    Owning a Great Dane is absolutely expensive, and while we’d rather see a Dane in a home with no emergency fund than a Dane sitting in rescue, there is a stark reality associated with emergency veterinary care that should be considered.

    The amount it costs to get vet care for a Great Dane doesn’t include the expenses associated with food, treats, chews, toys, and beds!

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    The New Great Dane Shopping List

    Now that you’ve made a decision to adopt a Great Dane, and you have one picked out and ready to join your family, here is a checklist of items you may need or want! These are some of our personal favorites that we use every day with our own Great Danes!

  • Bissell Bark Bath Review for Great Danes

    Bissell Bark Bath Review for Great Danes

    I recently splurged on a Bissell Bark Bath for my Great Danes and literally RAN to the blog to tell you about it. If you are considering options for bathing your Great Dane, this Bark Bath review is a must-read.

    When a Great Dane is muddy and dirty, you know it! Giant muddy paws and 130lbs of dirty fur on your couch are a sign that it’s time for a bath!

    I’m a big fan of letting my Danes play in the mud and run around outside; but it comes with the added headache of keeping my house clean, too. I purchased the Bark Bath by Bissell for two reasons:

    • I wanted to easily remove irritants such as pollen, sand, and dirt that were causing my male Dane to itch
    • Our newly renovated shower doesn’t have enough water pressure to get my dogs clean (unfortunately)

    Does the Bissell Bark Bath work to get a dog clean? Are dogs afraid of their Bark Bath? Let’s dig in.

    Bissell Bark Bath Review

    What is a Bark Bath?

    This one is a little crazy, but hear me out.

    The Bissell Bark Bath is essentially an upholstery cleaner for your dog.

    I’m not kidding. This thing looks like a carpet shampooer and acts like one, too.

    At first, I thought “this has GOT to be a joke, right?”.

    No, it’s not a joke. Bissell went there. They literally made a device that shampoos your dog like they are a piece of furniture. As a matter of fact, they’ve even included an attachment so that you CAN shampoo your actual furniture, too.

    I know what you are thinking though. There is NO way this could possibly work! Dogs will be afraid of the Bark Bath anyways, right? How does a Bark Bath even get the dog clean?

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    Are Dogs Afraid of the Bark Bath?

    Here is my honest experience with this.

    At first, my dogs were cautious. Within minutes, all three of them actually seemed to enjoy it.

    If your dog likes being brushed (I use a Sleek EZ) or is used to being brushed, the Bark Bath will be no trouble at all for your dog.

    This really speaks to the importance of good early socialization for Great Dane puppies!

    Bissell includes a beautiful, well-thought-out training guide for acclimating dogs that are not as amenable to the process of being cleaned with a Bark Bath. This guide uses solid, modern behavioral training practices and I was super impressed with the content!

    Here is my mantle boy Figaro getting bathed after spending an afternoon running in a VERY muddy field. It’s loud only because my phone was next to the machine during filming – in an ambient room it doesn’t sound this noisy.

    Notice how I have him on a towel, and the water/mess is minimal.

    Is the Bark Bath Loud?

    Bissell includes a thick microfiber mat to put the machine on. This dampens the sound which is not super loud at all. The machine resonates at a deeper tone, so there is no aversive high pitched whine. If anything, the deeper sound of the machine is soothing.

    They also made the cord and hose super long so that you can place the machine several feet away from your dog. In theory, if you had a noise-phobic pet, you could absolutely put the device in another room and bath your dog around the corner.

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    What Does the Bark Bath Come With?

    The box includes the Bark Bath machine itself, but also a huge tray of tools for all different coat types from short to long.

    It also includes an attachment which can be used to spot clean carpets and upholstery, which are different from the ones you use on your dog.

    Bissell included a sample size fabric soap and a full size bottle of no-rinse oatmeal dog shampoo.

    The kit comes with two soap reservoirs: one is for dog shampoo, the other one is for upholstery. They are labeled so you don’t mix them up, and when you use the machine you simply snap the correct soap container into place. It’s very easy and straightforward.

    They have also included the mat (to dampen the sound of the machine), a microfiber cloth (to wipe feet and face), and a bag to store all of the pieces and parts.

    The cord and the hose wrap neatly onto the Bark Bath machine itself, which I like because I cannot stand storing things with errant tangled up cords.

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    How Does the Bark Bath Work?

    The machine is easy to set up (see above where I mentioned pouring the included shampoo into the reservoir, which pre-measures and dispenses soap for you as you clean).

    With Danes, the short hair combs are perfect.

    I started with my most easy-going confident dog who loves being brushed, just so I could see how the machine worked.

    You do not have to wet the coat or scrub it in advance. I do think brushing it first with a Sleek EZ to remove surface dander and extra fur can provide the best results, though.

    I had him stand on a towel and then before I turned the machine on, I ran the brush down his back a few times. Then we got started for real.

    It literally works just like a carpet cleaner! You depress the button and soap and water comes out, then as you move the wand down the fur, it scrubs and sucks up the water (and dirt). You can see the water and dirt getting sucked back off of your dog.

    The water ends up in a reservoir and let me tell you, it was NASTY.

    I am able to easily “wash” a whole mildly dirty (not muddy) 130lb Great Dane in about 15 minutes with some solid time spent on his tummy and legs. Once I was finished with shampoo, I switched to ‘rinse only’ mode and ran through his coat one more time.

    Do you know those satisfying lines that the carpet gets after you vacuum? This happens with your dog and the Bark Bath, too!

    Once I was done, my dog was only a little damp. It was easy to towel dry him and send him on his way!

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    Does the Bark Bath Actually Get a Dog Clean?

    Honestly?

    So far, so good.

    I’ve run the machine on all three of my dogs multiple times and they are shiny, clean, and smell great. I have no complaints.

    Do I think it beats an experienced groomer doing a traditional bath in a salon? No. Nobody can beat that, those people know their stuff.

    Is it better than, or similar to an a typical at-home bath? YES! It absolutely replaces a DIY bath in your tub or walk-in shower.

    The Bark Bath absolutely got my dogs clean with minimal mess and drama, too.

    One of the biggest benefits I can see with a tool like this is that it’s also VERY simple and easy to use for just a quick ‘surface clean’ when you don’t want to deep clean your dog.

    This could also be a game-changer for dogs with seasonal and environmental allergies. Just keep it ready-to-go in the mudroom and suck up all the gunk your dog tracks in on their coat.

    With a little more time spent, it absolutely gets the dog as clean as a bath, too.

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    What is the Bark Bath Recommended For?

    Having now used (and decided to fall in love with) the Bark Bath, I think it’s an exceptional tool for many situations:

    • All people who want their dogs clean
    • Dogs that are afraid of traditional baths
    • Pet parents who cannot physically wrestle their giant dog into a tub
    • Dogs with sensitive skin that benefit from keeping irritants off of their coat
    • People who let their dogs run and play in mud and dirt often
    • Pets that have lost their mobility and need to be on a stable or soft surface for bathing

    The Bark Bath is currently $189 – 199 on Amazon and payment plans may be available. This machine will pay for itself if you are used to frequenting the self-serve dog wash!

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    What Kind of Shampoo Does the Bark Bath Use?

    Bissell makes a shampoo specifically for use with this machine, and says that using other shampoos can void the warranty. This is a common practice in similar (carpet and upholstery) appliances as suds and bubbles or certain soap formulations can harm the machinery.

    My Bark Bath came with Oatmeal shampoo. It smells amazing and left my dogs fur soft and shiny, so I haven’t tried the other varieties yet. They offer four types:

    All of these choices are soothing and safe to use on puppies, too.

    My complaint? It does NOT go far. With giant breed dogs, you’ll go through a lot of the soap.

    The machine DOES give you a ‘rinse only’ option that doesn’t pull soap into the water spray and if I would remember to switch to that I wouldn’t go through quite so much shampoo. My bad.

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    Photo of my Bark Bath cleaned dogs on their Big Barker Bed.

    Where Can I Buy a Bark Bath?

    I’ve only found one place to purchase a Bark Bath, though I’m sure they can be obtained through some other online retailers.

    Amazon has very fast shipping and may offer a payment plan on this device.

    You can get it on Amazon HERE.

    Do I recommend Bark Bath? Without a question. The Dane community is currently sleeping on this device, but truly, it’s awesome. I would say this is definitely in my top ten “must have” tools for owning Great Danes!

  • 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:

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    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?

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    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!

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  • 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