Do Dogs Need Regular Nail Trims When Going on Walks?

Many dog owners are often in doubt whether their furry friends need their nails trimmed regularly, even while taking them on daily walks. It's a common misconception that walking on hard surfaces can keep the nails in optimal condition. However, regular nail maintenance is crucial for your dog's health and comfort. This article will provide insights into why dogs may need nail trims and how often they should be done.

The Importance of Regular Nail Trims

While it's true that walking on concrete can help maintain the natural length of a dog's nails, it is often not enough. Hard surfaces like concrete, asphalt, and wood can only wear down the nails to a certain extent. When dogs walk on these surfaces, the pressure on their nails comes from the top and the sides, which might not be sufficient to keep the nails at a healthy length. In fact, leaving nails untrimmed can lead to several problems, including pain, discomfort, and even potential injuries.

According to experienced groomers and veterinarians, it's generally recommended to trim a dog's nails every 3 to 4 weeks, depending on their activity level and the surfaces they walk on. Regular nail maintenance is important for several reasons:

Prevent discomfort and pain Avoid affecting a dog's gait and posture Protect against potential injuries

A Personal Experience

During the challenging year of 2020, my dogs' groomer was closed for several months. I was fortunate enough to have some flexibility since my work was online, allowing me to take my dogs for a daily 2-hour walk during my lunch breaks. These walks on concrete helped keep their nails in good condition. However, after 4 months, the groomer finally reopened, and my dogs needed a trim.

I was pleasantly surprised to find that their nails were in excellent condition due to the consistent walks. The groomer only needed to clip off the very tips of their nails, which was minimal. In fact, they required this clip because the weather had become hot, and I could not risk walking them without harming their foot pads.

This experience emphasizes how important it is to maintain your dog's nails, especially if you rely on walks to keep them trimmed. However, it's crucial to recognize that walking on concrete alone is not sufficient to keep nails at the ideal length. Regular attention is necessary to ensure your dog's comfort and prevent potential issues.

How Often Should You Trim Your Dog's Nails?

The frequency of nail trims can vary depending on your dog's breed, lifestyle, and activity level. As a general rule, most dogs require nail trims approximately every 3 to 4 weeks. However, in the winter, when nail growth slows down, you might be able to stretch out the time between trims to every 2 to 3 weeks.

A dog’s nails should be checked regularly to ensure they do not touch the floor or ground and should not have a curve that makes them clicking on surfaces. If you hear your dog's nails clicking, it indicates that they are too long, which can cause pressure on the pads, impairing their posture and leading to joint and back issues.

Some dogs grow their nails faster than others. On hard surfaces, a dog’s nails will wear down more quickly than those walked on softer surfaces like grass or dirt. My own dog, who spends a lot of time running off-lead, digging for rabbits, and being exercised for 2 hours daily, rarely requires nail trims. However, a dog with a less active lifestyle may need more frequent trims.

Self-Trimming vs. Professional Grooming

Dog owners with experience in nail trimming can comfortably perform the task at home. However, if you're unsure about the best amount to trim or have never done it before, it's advisable to have a professional groomer or veterinarian assist. Trimming too much can lead to dangerous situations, such as cutting the quick (the blood vessel inside the nail).

For dogs that frequently need nail trims, it's best to follow a regular schedule. Cutting just the very tip of the nail every 10 to 14 days can be effective if you're uncertain about how much to trim at one time. Alternatively, consider bringing your dog to a professional groomer for regular nail trims. Both methods can keep your dog's nails in top condition.

Conclusion

Regular nail trims are a vital part of owning a dog. While walking on hard surfaces can help maintain the natural length of nails, it is not sufficient for most dogs. Regular trims ensure that your dog remains comfortable and avoids potential health issues related to long nails.