The Importance of Regular Nail Care

The Seemingly Insignificant Factor That Can Impact Longevity

Author

Thom Hart
November 27, 2023

Daily Longevity Tip: The Importance of Regular Nail Care

Tip Summary: Nails not attended to regularly can result in major health problems, including irreversible damage and deformities.

Hey Dog Longevity friends! As we discuss regularly, dog longevity is as much about injury prevention as it is about extending lifespan. There are many conditions that can snowball to become major health issues, if not cared for regularly - one of those is nail care. Let’s dive into why, and the different options we have at our disposal:

Health Risks of Overgrown Nails:

  • Posture and Spine Problems: Long nails can affect your dog's walking style, leading to spine and posture issues.

  • Difficulty Walking: Overgrown nails can make walking and running uncomfortable and difficult, which can compound into other issues.

  • Injuries: Nails that are too long can split, break, or get caught on surfaces, leading to pain or infections.

  • Long-term Damage: Persistent neglect of nail care can cause irreversible damage or deformities to paws and legs.

Nail Care Options:

  1. Scissors or Guillotine Clippers: Both are effective for trimming nails.

  2. Nail Grinders (like Dremel): These can be gentler, allowing for a slower approach and reducing the risk of cutting too close to the nerve or blood vessel. Regular grinding can help recede the quick over time, especially in dogs with long nails.

 Nail Care Frequency:

  • Trim your dog’s nails when they nearly touch the ground as they walk. If you hear clicking on the floor or see snagging on carpets, it's time.

  • Frequency depends on your dog's breed, lifestyle, and age. Active dogs might naturally wear their nails down, while older or less active dogs may need more frequent trims.