Closer Look: Dog Nails
Nail trimming is one of the most important — and most overlooked — parts of dog care. We talk a lot about brushing, bathing, and coat maintenance, but your dog’s nails play a huge role in their comfort, posture, and overall health. Taking a closer look at what’s happening inside those nails can help explain why regular trims are so essential.
Let’s break it down in a simple, dog‑parent‑friendly way.
The Anatomy of a Dog’s Nail
Inside every nail is a living structure called the quick — a blood vessel and nerve that grows with the nail. This is why nails can’t just be cut “as short as possible.” If the quick is long, the nail can only be trimmed to a safe point.
The Quick
Contains nerves and blood supply
Grows longer when nails are left untrimmed
Recedes slowly with consistent, frequent trims
Determines how short the nail can safely be cut
The Hard Outer Shell
The part you see and trim
Protects the quick
Can become brittle, cracked, or overgrown if neglected
Why Nail Length Matters
Long nails don’t just click on the floor — they affect your dog’s entire body.
1. Posture and Joint Health
When nails touch the ground, they push the toes upward. Over time, this changes how your dog stands and walks, putting pressure on joints and tendons.
2. Comfort and Mobility
Long nails can cause:
Slipping
Splayed toes
Pain when walking
Difficulty gaining traction
3. Risk of Injury
Overgrown nails are more likely to:
Split
Crack
Tear
Get caught on carpets or blankets
These injuries are painful and can lead to infection.
Why Some Dogs Need More Frequent Trims
Nail growth varies from dog to dog. Factors include:
Breed
Age
Activity level
Walking surfaces
Genetics
Health conditions
Some dogs naturally wear their nails down. Others barely touch the ground with them.
This is why many dogs need trims every 1–2 weeks, even if grooming appointments are every 4–8 weeks.
The Quick: The Biggest Limiting Factor
One of the most misunderstood parts of nail care is the quick. If nails have been allowed to grow too long, the quick grows long too — meaning the nails cannot be cut short in one visit.
The only way to shorten the quick is:
Frequent trims
Consistent maintenance
Patience
Over time, the quick will recede, allowing the nails to be trimmed shorter safely.
How Grooming Helps
During grooming, I always:
Assess nail length
Check for cracks or splits
Trim safely to avoid the quick
Grind smooth when possible
Monitor progress over time
My goal is always comfort, safety, and long‑term nail health — never rushing or cutting too close.
Healthy Nails = A Happier Dog
Your dog uses their nails for balance, movement, and stability. Keeping them trimmed isn’t just cosmetic — it’s essential for their comfort and well‑being.
A little consistency goes a long way, and your pup will feel the difference with every step.
