Tag: nail trimming

10 Steps to Caring for a Great Dane: Everything You Need to Know

Caring for a Great Dane brings a whole lot of slobber, bad breath and chew toys. But along with that you’re going to be gaining one drooly, messy family member. We promise: it is worth it!

Great Danes are some of the most fascinating of any dog breed. Their size, colors, and even their personalities are all things that make them an amazing dog to have. But, as with any large breed, there are some special considerations you need to take into account when caring for a Great Dane.

Here are 10 Steps to Caring for Great Danes:

TRAINING: ARE GREAT DANES EASY TO TRAIN?

Giant breeds are not harder to train than any other dog. However, large breeds grow much faster at a young age than other animals, so it is very important to have consistent training from a young age.

Puppy Socialization
Puppy Culture: A Way to Socialize from the Start
Puppy Socialization Guide
Puppy Training: 5 Mistakes in Training

While with other breeds you can get away with waiting to train your puppy, you do not want to delay with a big dog like Great Dane puppies.

One of the most common questions we get asked is if Great Danes are easy to train.

The answer is that they can be, but it really depends on the dog’s individual personality.

We’ve found that the best way to train a Great Dane is with positive reinforcement methods such as treats, and praise as well as utilizing the e collar.

E Collar Training Guide
E Collar Myths
What is an E Collar?
What is the Difference Between an E Collar and a Shock Collar?
9 Reasons to E Collar Train Your Great Dane Puppy

FOOD: HOW MUCH SHOULD I FEED MY GREAT DANE?

Great Danes need a lot of food! They are a giant breed and have very high metabolisms. The amount of food you will need to feed your Great Dane will depend on their age, weight, and activity level.

How Much Do Great Danes Eat?

HOW MUCH SHOULD A GREAT DANE PUPPY EAT?

A good rule of thumb is to feed according to the following chart if you have a Great Dane puppy.

To see a more comprehension feeding chart, check out this post: Great Dane Feeding Chart

All dog food is different, including each formula of puppy food. If you have a Great Dane puppy, they should be eating dog food specifically made for giant breed puppies. You should not feed your Great Dane puppy adult food until they are 24 months.

Great Dane: Puppy vs. Adult Food

It is so important that your Great Dane puppy is receiving a proper diet of properly formulated puppy food. Feeding your Great Dane the wrong diet can result in joint problems like Knuckling.

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

Puppies need food that is high in calories and protein to help them grow properly. If you feed your Great Dane puppy adult food, they will not get the proper nutrition they need and could end up with health concerns later in life.

HOW MUCH SHOULD MY ADULT GREAT DANE EAT?

An adult Great Dane will typically eat LESS than a puppy. During your Great Dane’s life, you will monitor them for how they look, how much they weigh, and how much activity they are getting.

Adult Great Dane Weight	Adult Great Dane Cups of Food
60-80 lbs	four to five cups
80-100 lbs	five to six cups
100-120 lbs	six to seven cups
120-140 lbs	seven to eight cups
140-160 lbs	seven to eight cups
160-180 lbs	eight to nine cups

Choose a high quality food that will support your gentle giant and keep them at a healthy weight.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Large Breed (Salmon based, chicken free)
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Shredded Chicken & Rice (Large Pieces & Chicken Shreds!)
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Weight Management (Get the weight off)
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Bright Mind Age 7+ (for Senior Great Danes)
Purina Pro Plan Giant Breed (Hard to find, might be discontinued)
Royal Canin Giant Breed (Amazing for dogs with chronic loose stools, TOP TIER)
Eukanuba Large Breed (Great for active and sport dogs)
Purina One Smart Blend Large Breed (Fantastic budget-friendly option)
Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Beef & Rice
Purina Pro Plan 30/20 Sport Beef & Bison

With a formula that is not made for large dogs, your Great Dane can have unpredictable health problems.

EXERCISE: WHAT DOES A GREAT DANE NEED IN REGARDS TO EXERCISE?

There are some debates on how much exercise a Great Dane dog really needs.

First and foremost, exercise is key for Great Danes. They need at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise every day, whether it’s a walk around the block or playing at the park. If they don’t get enough exercise, they can become destructive and bored.

Great Danes are not all ‘couch potatoes’ like some people imply.

Yes, not all Great Danes and large breeds are high energy dogs like other dogs can be, but that does not mean they don’t love to get out and about and spend their time outside.

You don’t have to frequent dog parks to get your Great Dane the exercise that they need. Great Danes do not NORMALLY need intense exercise. They are usually happy to go for a walk, play off leash at an open space, or visit a dog friendly shop.

HEALTH ISSUES: WHAT SHOULD EVERY GREAT DANE OWNER KNOW IN REGARDS TO HEALTH?

Unfortunately, Great Danes are predisposed to some health problems that other dogs are not as prone.

Health Risks in Great Danes

The most common health problems for Great Danes are:

Hip Dysplasia
Elbow Dysplasia
Arthritis
Cardiomyopathy
Gastric Torsion (Bloat)
Cancer
Hypothyroidism

BLOAT

Bloat is one of a few life threatening health conditions that impacts a Great Dane. Bloat happens when too much air fills up the stomach of your gentle giant and leads to torsion, which is a deadly condition that Great Danes are predisposed to.

What is Bloat?
Can You Prevent Bloat?
Stomach Tacking: Pros and Cons
Bloat and Gut Health
The Scary Bloat Timeline

Torsion occurs when the stomach twists on itself and cuts off blood flow. Great Dane owners can prevent Torsion with the ‘Gastropexy’ surgery, which can be done when they get their Great Dane spayed or neutered. They cannot, however, prevent Bloat from happening.

So, any owner of Great Danes should always be aware of Bloat AND Torsion as it can cause serious issues, even death, and early detection is the only hope for survival.

HIP DYSPLASIA AND OTHER JOINT ISSUES

A Great Dane’s joints are constantly carrying around a lot of weight. Because of this, they are prone to joint problems such as Hip Dysplasia.

Dysplasia is when the ball and socket of the hip joint do not fit together properly and leads to arthritis later in life. It is a very painful condition that can be prevented with proper nutrition and exercise. There are also surgeries that can help correct Hip Dysplasia, but it’s best to prevent it if possible.

Arthritis can be prevented with joint supplements, weight management, and the proper exercise. We highly recommend starting Great Dane puppies out on a Big Barker bed, as it is the best bed on the market for a Great Dane’s health and can help prevent joint disease.

Using CBD for any joint disease is encouraged.

Colorado Sun CBD: A company we love and trust

CANCER

Cancer is unfortunately common in Great Danes, as it is in all breeds of dogs. The most common bone tumor that Great Danes get is Osteosarcoma.

Osteosarcoma is a cancer of the bone and is very aggressive. It is most commonly found in the legs, but can be found anywhere in the body.

There are many treatment options for osteosarcoma, but unfortunately prevention has really not been proven in Great Danes at this time.

HYPOTHYROIDISM

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. This can lead to weight gain, hair loss and other lethargy.

Hypothyroidism can be treated with daily medication and a high quality diet.

CARDIOMYOPATHY

Cardiomyopathy is a heart condition that Great Danes are predisposed. It is a leading cause of death in Great Danes, so it is important to get your dog checked out by a veterinarian if you suspect any heart issues. Your vet can do annual heart scans to check for heart disease.

While there is no guarantee that your Great Dane will not get any of these issues, you can take steps to help prevent them.

First and foremost, make sure you are feeding your dog a high quality food that is specifically made for large breeds. This will help support their joint health as they grow.

Secondly, make sure you are exercising your dog regularly. This will also help support their joint health as well as keeping their weight at a healthy level.

Lastly, stay up to date on their vaccinations and routine vet check-ups. This will help catch any health problems early on so that they can be treated.

GROOMING: ARE GREAT DANES HIGH MAINTENANCE?

Grooming a Great Dane’s coat is not very complicated at all.

BRUSHING A GREAT DANE

Since a Great Dane has a short coat compared to other dogs, they do not require ‘groomings’. Rather, they just need regular brushings.

They do, however, shed QUITE A LOT. (GREAT DANES SHEDDING)

If your Great Dane is shedding endlessly they could be blowing their coat, having allergies, need more fatty acids in their diet, or just need a really good brushing.

71X 4yz553L. AC SL1500 — See the 5″ Original Sleek EZ Great Dane Brush on Amazon

GREAT DANE’S NAILS

Since they are so large, it is so important to frequently participate in Great Dane grooming of your dog’s nails.

The Best Nail Tools for a Great Dane
Nail Clippers for Great Danes

If your Great Dane dog has nails that touch the floor, this could lead to joint problems later on in their life.

Keep an eye on them and trim them when necessary. You can either do this yourself or take them to a groomer or vet to get it done.

GREAT DANE’S TEETH

Just like humans, Great Danes need to have their teeth brushed regularly to prevent plaque buildup, tartar, and gum disease.

The best way to brush your Great Dane’s teeth is with a dog toothbrush and toothpaste made specifically for dogs. You can also use water and a soft cloth if you don’t have dog toothpaste handy.

Start brushing your Great Dane’s teeth when they are puppies so that they get used to it and it becomes part of their daily routine.

YOUR DOG’S EARS

Some people report that the dog breed is relatively known for having ear infections.

If you notice your Great Dane dog having itchy ears, or having an excess of ear wax, they might be having a yeast infection in their ears.

GREAT DANE EAR INFECTIONS

Use Xymox to try and treat your Great Dane at home first, as it is very effective.

Long term yeast infection in the dog breed might be indicative of an allergy and feeding your Great Dane a new food might be merited.

Xymox is our absolute FAVORITE cleanser if your Great Dane has yeast or inflammation in its ears.

ANXIETY: CAN GREAT DANES BE LEFT ALONE ALL DAY?

Great Danes are ‘velcrow dogs’ which means sometimes they struggle with separation anxiety.

If you have a puppy, you will not be able to leave them at home all day without bathroom breaks.

However, as your Great Dane grows up, you should be able to leave them at home for extended periods.

When your Great Dane is little, practice leaving them at home safely in a crate.

This will help your Great Dane pup get used to being left alone and not feel anxious.

As they get older, you can leave them out of the crate and give them a comfy bed to lay on while you’re gone.

Make sure you leave them with plenty of food and water so that they don’t have to worry about being hungry or thirsty.

You should also leave them with some toys to keep them occupied while you’re gone.

The Best Toys for Great Danes

If your Great Dane does suffer from separation anxiety, there are many things you can do to help ease their anxiety such as: dog pheromone diffusers, anti-anxiety medication, training, and more.

SOCIALIZATION: DO GREAT DANES REQUIRE SPECIAL CARE?

Great Dane socialization is VERY important.

Puppy Socialization Guide
Puppy Training: 5 Mistakes in Training
Your Puppy is Bored

Without both physical and mental stimulation throughout your dog’s life, they can become bored and destructive.

Here are a few ideas to get your Great Dane socialized:

Take your Great Dane to a park that is full of kids, but just sit back on a park bench and let your Great Dane watch the kids.
Sign up for a Good Citizens Training Class with your Great Dane dog. Depending on your dog’s age, there are different classes that will suit them and provide incredible socialization.
Take your pup to parking lots and walk with them up and down the rows of cars, making sure NOT to let other people pet or interact with them.
Walk between the shopping carts in parking lots, exposing them to new sounds and items.
You can also sign up for dog sports such as agility, dock diving, flyball, etc. Not only will this give your Great Dane something to do, but it will also be a great bonding experience for the two of you.

Canine Good Citizen Training for Great Danes

CRATES: DO GREAT DANES REQUIRE SPECIAL CARE AND PRODUCTS?

Crate training is a huge plus for not only a Great Dane puppy, but all Great Danes.

Great Danes LOVE to feel safe and secure and crate training helps them feel just that.

Crate training is not evil or mean. It is just the opposite of that!

Crate training gives your Great Dane their own space that is just for them. If you have young kids, it can also be a safe place for your Great Dane to relax away from the chaos of children.

A place where they can go to relax and feel safe.

PUPPIES: IS IT HARD TO TAKE CARE OF A GREAT DANE PUPPY?

From protecting their joints with unique puppy food to making sure they are properly socialized, the short answer is yes. Taking care of a Great Dane puppy has its challenges.

Here are a few things you need to do to make sure your Great Dane puppy is healthy and happy:

Make sure they are on a high-quality puppy food that will help protect their joints. Read more about Great Dane puppy food here.
Start socialization early and often! The more people, animals, and experiences your Great Dane pup is exposed to, the better.
Make sure they get plenty of exercise, but not too much! Too much exercise can be hard on their joints.
Take them to the vet for regular check-ups and vaccinations.
Look into crate training and e collar training, both of which can set up your puppy for success.
Get lots of chew toys to protect your house!
Invest in spending the time to find a good breeder who is going to not only produce a healthy puppy but provide you with support that you need to raise your pup. (Scam Breeders: What to Look For)

Training What is Balanced Training? Respect Training Tips: How to Train Your Puppy Great Dane Is My Great Dane Being Aggressive? How to Crate Train a Great Dane Puppy	Potty Training 12 Potty Training Tips for a Great Dane Puppy Potty Training in an Apartment Best Training Treats for Great Dane Puppies
Growth 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	Products Best Toys for Great Danes New Puppy Checklist Day Pouch Treat Bag Review Dog Halo Collar Review

LIFESPAN: HOW LONG IS THE AVERAGE LIFESPAN?

Great Danes make a wonderful family companion, and you do not have to live under the assumption that they have a ‘short lifespan’.

Lifespan of a Great Dane

The average lifespan for a Great Dane is between nine and ten years.

While this may seem short when compared to other breeds, it is actually a long life for a dog of their size.

The lifespan of Great Danes is also increasing every year with education and resources that pet parents need to keep life threatening diseases at bay.

The best thing that you can do to help your Great Dane live a long life is avoid backyard breeders and support breeders who are ethical in their health testing.

Great Danes are some of the best dogs in the entire world. The breed comes with a lot of responsibility, but the rewards are more than worth it.

I hope this article has helped you better understand what goes into taking care of a Great Dane.

READ ABOUT GREAT DANE PUPPIES

September 14, 2022

Do Dogs Have Nerves in Their Nails?

Do dogs have nerves in their nails?

This is a question that has troubled pet owners for years as many navigate nail trimming their dog’s nails.

But, the answer is yes! Dog’s nails have nerves in them. Thus, when a dog gets their nails cut, a dog owner should be aware of the anatomy of the nail and avoid cutting the part of the nail that contains the nerve endings.

DO DOGS HAVE NERVES IN THEIR NAILS?

Well, a dog has something called a ‘quick’ in its nail. When the nail is at the proper length, a dogs nails will not touch the ground. However, when the nails get too long, they will start to curve and touch the ground which can be painful for your dog. The quick is essentially the blood vessel that runs through the center of the nail.

If you were to cut into the quick, it would be painful for your dog and could start to bleed.

GREAT DANE NAIL CLIPPERS

TOENAIL PROBLEMS: DO THEY MATTER?

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU CUT YOUR DOG’S NAILS?

HOW TO TRIM YOUR PUPPIES NAILS

WHICH CLIPPERS ARE BEST?

The quick is the area of the dog’s nails which contain the nerve endings. When trimming nails, you want to be careful not to cut into the quick as it will cause your dog pain. However, if you do accidentally cut the quick while you are getting your dog’s nails trimmed, it is not an emergency.

DO DOGS FEEL PAIN WHEN GETTING NAILS CUT?

Yes, dogs can feel pain when getting their nails cut. However, the amount of pain they feel depends on how long their nails are and if the quick gets cut during the nail trimming.

A nail trim, however, should NOT produce a negative reaction and a dog should not hurt or feel pain while getting their nails cut. Nail clipping for some dogs, creates extreme fear as they are not used to having their feet touched and they have possibly had their feet or nail trimmed too short before, which can create a fear of nail clipping.

THE REAL PAIN FOR DOGS

More so than having to cut his nails, the pain for your pet will come when you DO NOT cut their nails.

If the nails are too long, they will start to curve and touch the ground which can be painful for your dog.

If your dog has nails that are too long, it can cause so many issues with their health such as:

Arthritis
Joint problems
Infections
Nerve damage
Conformation issues in the feet
Paw issues
Paw pain
Feet pain
Fear of having their feet touched

All of these health concerns can be avoided by simply keeping your dog’s nails trimmed.

Instead of delaying nail trims, practice nail cutting by getting a good nail grinder or clipper, some high value treats, and gently touch the dog’s four paws until they feel comfortable with their trimming or clipping.

Our recommended clippers for dog nails:

WHY DO DOGS GET SCARED WHEN YOU CUT THEIR NAILS?

If your dog won’t let you file their nails, it is likely that they are afraid of having their paws touched with a clipper or trimmer.

Some dogs automatically associate a nail grinder or clipper with a negative process, as they have likely had their nails trimmed too short before. This can create a fear of nail clipping that some dogs never get over. Some dogs also may associate nail cutting with negative because many dogs have sensitive paws which they don’t like being touched. Lastly, some dogs are afraid of unique noises like that of a nail grinder.

REASONS THAT A DOG WON’T LET YOU CUT THEIR NAILS

It isn’t fun
The noise is scary
They have hurt their nails before during nail trimming
They don’t like their paws being touched
They are afraid of the clipper or trimmer

The best way to combat this is to start off slow, get your dog used to the idea of having his nails clipped by letting them sniff the clipper or grinder, and then offering treats while you sit quietly with the grooming tool.

This calm activity can help your dog’s fear dissipate and create a positive association.

HOW DO YOU CUT AN UNCOOPERATIVE DOG’S NAILS?

Nail trimming requires a lot of patience to get your dog relaxed during the process. Do not ever rush your dog into nail cutting.

WHICH CLIPPERS SHOULD YOU USE TO DO NAIL TRIMS?

WHAT IS WRONG WITH MY DOG’S NAILS?

WHY DO MY DOGS NEED THEIR NAILS CUT SO OFTEN?

WHY WON’T MY PUPPY LET ME TRIM ITS NAILS?

TRIMMER SUGGESTIONS THAT WE LOVE

Instead, try to create a positive association with nail cutting and nail trims.

HOW TO CREATE A POSITIVE ASSOCIATION WHILE NAIL TRIMMING

You can work on creating positivity with nail trimming.

Play with your dog during nail trims. Dog play is important for your dog to understand that nail clippers aren’t scary.
Provide high value treats. Touch their paws, and then reward with a treat.
Practice touching your dog’s nails with things that aren’t scary, like simple human nail files.
Start with just one toe at a time- and make sure not to expect to get all of them done.
Use desensitizing if you are using a Dremel by allowing your dog time to get used to the noise of the nail cutting tool.

HOW DO I SEDATE MY DOG TO CUT HIS NAILS?

Some dogs will need to be sedated to get their nails clipped.

Long nails are a danger to your dog, and therefore sometimes it is necessary to get your dog to a comfortable and sleepy place in order to perform healthy nail cutting.

First, try to sedate your dog at home with items such as :

A Thundershirt- This can help to calm your dog’s anxiety.
Pheromone diffusers- These can help to create a calming environment for your dog.
Calming supplements- There are many supplements on the market that can help to sedate your dog such as CBD, Rescue Remedy, etc.
Use Benadryl or prescription items from your Veterinarian

If these items don’t work, you will need to speak with your veterinarian about fully sedating your dog to help their nail stay short.

11 WAYS TO CALM YOUR DOG DOWN WHEN THEY ARE SCARED

5 WAYS TO STRENGTHEN YOUR DOG’S FEET

HOW TO HELP YOUR DOG OVERCOME FEAR

FEAR AGGRESSION IN DOGS

SIGNS OF STRESS IN DOGS

BLOAT IN DOGS RELATED TO FEAR

WALKING A GREAT DANE

WOBBLERS SYNDROME IN DOGS

DOES IT HURT A DOG TO NOT CUT THEIR NAILS?

Nail cutting should not hurt your dog. The nail itself contains no nerve endings, so your dog will not feel pain when you cut their nails.

However, if you cut the quick of the nail- which is the pink part containing blood vessels and nerve endings- it will hurt your dog. The quick of the nail grows as the nail does, so it is important to only trim a small amount at

IS IT OKAY FOR MY DOG TO BITE THEIR OWN NAILS OFF?

Some dogs will start to bite their own nails or paws.

Typically, when a pet is biting their own nails, they are doing one of a few things:

Trying to trim their own nails down because they think they are too long
Attempting a process of calming themselves down (they might feel nervous or anxious), and sometimes it can calm them down to do something like bite at their nails or paws
Suffering from allergies or another issue that is bothering their paws
Just simply developed a habit of biting their own nails

If your dog is biting their own nails, you should evaluate whether your dog:

Needs a nail trimming
Has itchy paws due to skin inflammation or allergies
Is feeling uncomfortable or anxious
Has developed a habit that needs broken

WHY IS MY DOG TRYING TO PULL OUT HIS OWN NAIL?

If you think your dog is working at biting / pulling out their own nail, they may be experiencing some pain in their nail or paws.

There are several things that could be the cause of your dog’s pain, such as:

Allergies- If your dog is allergic to something, it could be causing them to lick or chew at their paws until they bleed.
Injuries- A cut, broken nail, or any other sort of injury can cause a dog to lick or chew at the area until it bleeds.
Nerve damage- If your pup has diabetes, they may experience nerve damage which can cause them to feel pain in their paws and nails.
The nails are too long and need a trimming or clipping.

Remember, that a dog or pup with nails that are too long will begin to have pain in their toes and feet. A dogs nails being too long can cause a knee injury, back pain, and their feet to be misaligned due to their toenails curling into their paws. All the nails of your dog should stay off the ground at all times. If you can hear the nails of your puppy or dog on the floor while they walk, ‘clicking’, their nails are too long and it is time to get the clippers out!

HOW LONG CAN DOGS GO WITHOUT CUTTING NAILS?

Every dog and pup is different and can wait a different amount of time between clipping.

However, as a rule of thumb, you should trim your dog every week.

If they are having a hard time with the frequency of this process, try to trim one paw per day. Once they get better with this paw, move to doing the back paws and then the front paws. Work so that their nails stay short.

Finding the right clippers and treats as well as having patience and remaining calm will help your dog know that getting their nails clipped is not a negative.

WHAT ARE THE BEST NAIL CLIPPERS FOR DOGS?

Every dog responds differently to different clippers. As a dog owner, it is important to try clipping with different clippers to see what type your pup responds best too.

There are two types of nail clippers: guillotine style and scissors style.

how to cut dogs nails — ***DIAGRAM OF NAILS THAT ARE WAY TOO LONG, A LITTLE BIT TOO LONG, AND NICELY TRIMMED***

Do Dogs Have Nerves in Their Nails? 35 — ***DIAGRAM OF NAILS THAT ARE WAY TOO LONG, A LITTLE BIT TOO LONG, AND NICELY TRIMMED***

GUILLOTINE STYLE CLIPPERS

Guillotine style clippers have a circular cutting area that goes over the nail. The nail is then inserted into the cutting area and cut with a quick movement.

SCISSOR STYLE CLIPPERS

Scissors style clippers have two blades that come together to cut the nail. These type of clippers take a little longer to use, but some dogs respond better to them.

To find out what type of clipper your dog likes best, try both types and see which they respond better too. You can also ask your groomer or veterinarian.

THE BEST NAIL CLIPPERS FOR YOUR DOG

We have put together a list of the best dog nail clipper selections that might work for your dog. Each clipper has pros and cons.

Millers Forge Nail Trimmer for Great Danes

The Millers Forge Nail Trimmers are known to be one of the best pair of clippers to trim your dog and their nails. They can work for a small dog but also work very well for a big dog. The blade is very sharp and can cut through the nails with ease.

Pros:

Very sharp blades
Can be used on small and large dogs

Cons:

Some people find them difficult to use

Dremel Nail Grooming Tool

The Dremel Nail Grooming Tool is a great option if you are looking for an electric nail clipper that you can not only file the tip of your dog’s nails, but slowly get the quick to reside.

If your dog is afraid of the sound of this groomer, you will need to introduce it slowly and remain calm.

Pros:

You can use it to file your dog’s nails
It slowly gets the quick to reside

Cons:

Some dogs are afraid of the sound it makes.

Shop Dremel on Amazon

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY DOG NEEDS HIS NAILS CLIPPED?

Your dog requires regular nail trimmings if his nails touch the ground when he walks.

You will know that your dog’s nails are too long if you can hear them clicking on the floor when they walk. Additionally, their toenails may curl under and begin to grow into their paw pads, which is extremely painful.

If you are not certain if your dog needs their nails clipped or not, we always say to air on the side of pulling that clipper out and getting those treats ready and getting a good nail grooming in. It never hurts to go too short, but it does hurt to stay too long.

Good luck and happy clipping!

HELP YOUR DOG HAVE STRONG FEET

HOW TO KEEP YOUR DOGS NAILS HEALTHY

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU BE DOING NAIL TRIMS?

KNUCKLING- WHAT IS IT?

HOW TO PREVENT KNUCKLING

TRIMMING FOR PUPS

IS MY DOG KNUCKLING

OUR NAIL GROOMING SUPPLY SUGGESTIONS

August 23, 2022

How to Cut Black Dog Nails Without Hurting Them
How to cut black dog nails is a big problem! anybody with a dog who has black nails knows that getting nails trimmed is hard to begin with, let alone if the nails are black.

Do you have a dog with black nails? If so, you know that their nails can be a challenge to cut. They are black, so they are hard to see, and they tend to curl under, making them difficult to cut properly. In this blog post, we will discuss how to cut your black dog’s nails without hurting them. We will also provide tips on how to make the process easier for both you and your pet!

HOW TO CUT BLACK DOG NAILS

Trimming dogs nails can be a hard job to complete. Dog’s nails grow quickly and if not trimmed often, can pose health issues.

Great Dane Nail Clippers
How to Trim a Puppies Nails
How to Keep Your Dog’s Nails Healthy
What are the 7 Best Nail Clippers?

With white nails or clear nails, owners find the task easier as they don’t worry that they will accidentally cut the quick. However, with trimming black nails, it gets harder to safely trim, as the quick on a black dog is harder to identify.

Trimming black dog’s nails does not need to be impossible, however. With the proper tools and some patience, you can trim your black dog’s nails without harming them.

DOG’S NAILS AND THE QUICK

If you look closely at your pup’s nails, you can find something called the ‘quick’. The quick is the part of the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves.

TRIMMING A PUPPY? WE’VE GOT YOU!

You want to avoid cutting the quick as it will cause your dog pain and bleeding. When cutting black nails, it is harder to see where the quick begins. This is why extra care needs to be taken when trimming these types of nails. However, if you accidentally trim the dog’s quick, just know that accidents happen and it will not cause tremendous pain.

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

WHERE IS THE QUICK ON A DOG’S BLACK NAILS

Since it is harder to spot the quick on a dog with a black nail, you will want to become familiar with its location before attempting to cut it.

Image below is from Pethelpful:

The quick is located in the center of the nail. It is a pinkish or tan colored area that extends from the bottom of the nail up about halfway.

When working on a dog’s black nails, you will also want to look closely at the difference in textures. Inside the nail you will see the actual nail, and you will see something a bit more of a ‘chalky’ texture. This is the area you will want to avoid as it is where the quick begins.

HOW TO TRIM A DOG’S BLACK NAILS

Now that you know where the quick is located, you can begin trimming your dog’s black nails. You will want to use a nail trimmer specifically designed for dogs. These can be found at most pet stores or on Amazon. We will link some of our favorites below.

When trimming, you will want to make sure that you only take a small amount off at a time. This is because it is harder to see the quick on black nails, and you don’t want to accidentally cut it.

You will also want to be extra careful when cutting the nails that are close to the quick. These nails can be more difficult to trim, so take your time and be patient.

READ MORE ABOUT TOOLS WE RECOMMEND FOR TRIMMING HERE

After you have finished trimming your dog’s black nails, you will want to give them a treat! This will help them associate nail trims with something positive and make future trims easier.

SHOULD YOU USE STANDARD CLIPPERS FOR TRIMMING YOUR DOG’S BLACK NAILS?

Standard trimmers or clippers are a great option for your canine companion. Every dog is different and has a different level of comfort when it comes to nail care.

We recommend starting with standard trimmers and then moving up to a grinder if your dog is resistant to having their nails trimmed. A grinder will make the process quicker, but some dogs do not like the sound or vibration.

No matter the case, choosing a tool is essential as problems can arise when you do not trim your dogs nails.

As a pet parent, you will also have a different level of comfort with each tool. Some dog owners prefer to use a dremel, as it feels more comfortable removing a tiny bit a a time, than having to know where to stop cutting to avoid the quick.

SHOULD YOU USE A DREMEL OR FILER FOR DOGS NAILS?

The Dremel power tool is an option for dog nail grooming. Dog groomers sometimes use this tool to avoid clipping the quick / nerve endings, and get the nail short.

See how your dog reacts to getting their nails done with the Dremel. If they are a bit nervous at first, that is completely okay. Dog nails is not something that can be perfected overnight. Like any new task, trimming your dog’s nails will need to be done gradually over time.

If you would like to use a Dremel on your pup’s nails, we have listed our favorite product below.

TRIMMING YOUR DOG’S NAILS

Some dogs are very hesitant or nervous to get their nails trimmed. Trimming black nails adds an even bigger challenge, as it is more difficult to see the quick.

Here are a few tips on how to make trimming your dog’s nails a positive experience:
1. Start by getting your dog used to you handling their paws. This can be done by gently massaging their paw pads and between their toes. Try to gently pressure their toes or nails daily so that they get used to their feet being touched.
2. Once your dog is okay with you handling their feet, you can start trimming with some safe clippers, a little bit at a time. It is important to go slowly and not try to do too much at once.
3. Be sure to give your dog lots of dog treats and praise during the process. This will help them associate getting their nails trimmed with something positive.
4. If you are unable to safely trim your black dog nails due to your dog resisting, take a step back. Nail cutting can take time to practice. Start with just one nail, and then gradually increase over time.
5. If you have any questions or concerns about trimming your dog’s nails, please consult with a professional groomer or veterinarian. They will be able to help you determine the best course of action for your individual pet.
A BLEEDING NAIL

The quick on a black dog is difficult to see, but the texture does look different. If you accidentally cut the quick, it will bleed.

If this happens, do not panic. Apply gentle pressure to the nail with a clean cloth or bandage to stop the bleeding. Once the bleeding has stopped, apply a styptic powder or corn starch or baking soda to the area to help clot the blood.

Syptic powder is helpful for dog nails because it comes in a small tube and can be easily applied to the nail. It is important to only apply a small amount, as too much can cause pain for your dog.

READ MORE ABOUT NAIL HEALTH HERE: How to Cut Black Dog Nails Without Hurting Them

If you do not have styptic powder on hand, corn starch can be used as a temporary measure until you are able to get some. (Which clippers to avoid)

THE BEST CLIPPERS FOR DOG NAILS

Dog nail trimming is a personal experience. Like human nails, every dog nail will have a different level of sensitivity to dog nail trimmers.

However, when using the correct dog nail trimmers, it can help a black dog or any dog have the most positive experience possible. The right nail clippers (reviewed here) can be the difference between a great experience when trimming black dog nails, and a negative one.

THE TYPES OF DOG NAIL CLIPPERS

There are two types of nail trimmers: guillotine clippers and scissors type clippers. (READ MORE HERE) Guillotine clippers have a circular blade that goes around the nail, while scissors type have two blades that come together like normal scissors. (Our favorites reviewed here)

We recommend the following dog nail clippers for trimming black dog nails:
To read more about nail clippers and trimming black dog nails, click here: The 7 Best Dog Nail Clippers: Great Dane Toenail Problems

THE BEST DOG TREATS FOR A GREAT EXPERIENCE TRIMMING BLACK DOG NAILS

Giving your dog a positive experience when nail clipping can be hard, but most dogs LOVE treats. During nail trimming, try to give rewards between each time you touch or trim your dog’s nail. This practice will help your canine friend understand that getting their nails trimmed is not a bad thing, but something they should look forward to.

Here are some of our favorite dog treats for the best experience when trimming black dog nails:
1. Doctor Harveys Freeze Dried Treats (click here)
2. Merrick Power Bites Natural Grain Free Gluten Free Soft & Chewy Chews Dog Treats
3. Zuke’s Mini Naturals Chicken Recipe with Wild Rice Soft & Moist Dog Treats
Code HELLODANES10 for 10% off all Dr. Harveys products

READ MORE ABOUT OUR FAVORITE TREATS FOR ANY ANIMAL LOVER: Soft Dog Treats: The #1 Best Treat on the Market

NAIL TRIMMING: THE IMPORTANCE OF NOT HAVING OVERGROWN NAILS

Long nails can cause a lot of problems for dogs. Not only can they be uncomfortable, but they can also lead to serious health issues. Overgrown nails can split and crack, which can be extremely painful for your dog.

If you allow your dog’s nails to grow too long, it can also cause joint pain and mobility problems. Long nails can also get caught on things, which can lead to ripped nails. In extreme cases, overgrown nails can cause a deformed foot or toe. This is because the weight of the nail pulls on the toe, causing it to bend out of shape. If you think your dog’s nails are getting too long, make an appointment with your veterinarian, vet tech or groomer as soon as possible.

Shop Dremel on Amazon

PROBLEMS WITH A NAIL BEING TOO LONG

A long nail on dogs can cause:
1. Arthritis
2. Hip Dysplasia
3. Hip / Joint pain
4. Conformation issues
5. Infection
6. Pain
IS IT IMPOSSIBLE TO TRIM DARK NAILS?

Trimming black dog nails can be a difficult task, but it is important to make sure you do not hurt your dog in the process. With the right tools and treats, you can trim your black dog’s nails without causing them any pain. Working to get the nail quick shorter is a process that requires patience, but if you take your time, you can do it!

If you have any questions about trimming black dog nails, please feel free to contact us. We are always happy to help!

RESOURCES FOR NAIL TRIMMING A DOG’S NAIL:

Dog’s Nail Tools: Click Here to Read More
Dog Nail Trimming Tips: Click to Read about how to Keep Your Dog’s Nails Healthy
Dog Supplies for Grooming: Click to Read and Learn
How Much Nail Should You Cut Off? Click to Read
Looking for the Quick On Black Dog: Read More Here
August 20, 2022