How to trim a dog’s nails

 for the claws of the dog – the responsibility of the owner. If it is neglected, overgrown claws can cause discomfort and even pain to the dog. How to properly trim a dog’s nails? When a dog walks a lot on hard surfaces, the claws wear down on their own. But if you walk mostly on soft ground, check your nails once a week. If they have grown back (usually once every 1 to 2 weeks), trim them with a special nail cutter. There are two types of nail cutters: guillotine and with sickle-shaped blades. For small breed dogs, cat nail clippers can be used, which differ from dog nail clippers only in size. Stock up on treats to distract your pet. Remember that claws contain blood vessels and nerves. Therefore, they are cut below the live part. In light-colored dogs, the live part is easier to see – it usually looks like a pink or reddish tube that runs along the center of the nail and ends under its tip. In dark dogs, the border is harder to see. Even if you think you saw her, she may go further than you think. Therefore, it is better to trim the dog’s claw gradually, from the very tip, very carefully, focusing on the pet’s reaction. It is better to cut less than you think possible. If you still touched the live part of the dog’s claw and blood appeared, press a cotton swab with potassium permanganate powder to the damaged area and hold for a few seconds. Then for a few more minutes do not let the dog step into the water with its paws. After trimming, the dog’s claws should be processed with a file. The claws on the dewclaws (fifth) fingers require special attention. They do not come into contact with the ground and do not wear down, but they can bend and grow into soft tissues. Inspect and trim them regularly.