I found it challenging trimming my small dog’s nails with a clipper ever since she was a puppy. I was never sure that I was cutting her too close to the quick.
So, I would let her nails grow. They’d snag on the carpet, which she didn’t like at all. That’s when I made the happy discovery of dog nail grinders.
A nail grinder for dogs is a hand-held tool with a grinding drum that runs on electricity. Sanding wheels of varying coarseness are mounted on the drum. Like a sander, the tool gradually shortens and smooths your dog’s long nails.
Dog groomers generally use a nail clipper specifically designed for dogs. But dog owners have discovered the benefits of using a grinder at home.
Instead of making the dog (and you) nervous by slicing the nail, the rotator is gentle. Your dog will be far less likely to be hurt by an unlucky cut.
If your dog is nervous around clippers but doesn’t mind the loud noise of a grinder, a dog nail grinder may be a perfect choice.
Does your dog have thick nails that are difficult to cut? Use the grinder’s coarsest sanding wheel. Then, use the fine sander to smooth and shape.
I’ve shopped around and tested several grinders on my dog. Each one can be considered the best dog nail grinder, at least for different dogs and owners. Each has some minor drawbacks, but I picked them for the qualities that make them appropriate for a variety of dogs and owners.
Your dog’s size is important. Some grinders are better for large animals and others for small animals.
What is your dog’s temperament? Is she skittish or placid? How well does she respond to noise? What are her nails like? How fast do they grow? Do they grow exceptionally fast, hard, and thick? The answers to these questions will lead you towards some products and away from others.
Did your dog ever have bad experiences previously with nail clippers and grinders? You might need to consider buying the softest sounding grinder on the market.
If you have several, a durable product with a long-lasting charge will be more suitable for you.
If you have one, the extra expense of a durable grinder will not be enticing.
Are you nervous about grinding your dog’s nails? You’ll want to find the safest product for your own peace of mind.
Would you prefer a battery-operated device, a rechargeable, or a plug-in?
What kind of fit and weight would appeal to you and permit you to move freely while grinding?
Which ones appeal to you the most? Which ones will likely prove useful as you work with your dog?
Engage in comparative shopping. Price each device you are considering buying. Which one would best fit in your budget?
If cost is less of a concern, would a higher-priced grinder need to have certain features to justify the extra expense? Will the savings of not having to take your dog to the groomer more than offset the cost of a new grinder?
Show your dog that it’s nice to have her paws handled by petting them and playing “shake hands.”
Call your dog. Lay the pet nail grinder down near her feet. Let her sniff it. Touch her feet with it turned off. Turn it on for a short time. If she’s startled, turn it off. Desensitize her to the sound by doing this over several days before you intend to grind her nails. Reward her with a treat when she settles down.
Have your dog lay down on her side.
Turn on the dog nail file and let it run for a few seconds before using.
Use short strokes while talking softly to your dog. If your dog is nervous, keep the grinding sessions short. You don’t have to grind every nail in one session.
Begin with a coarse bit, then polish with a fine bit. Never apply to any nail longer than 5 seconds at a time. Wait a bit for it to cool between applications.
Pet your dog and give her a treat for being good when you’re done.
It depends on your dog’s disposition. If you have a large dog who has long, tough nails, you may be better off using nail clippers.
And if your dog is nervous around noises, again you may be better off with clippers.
They normally use clippers. But more of them are using professional grinders.
Yes. If they have a strong enough motor and a diamond grinder.
Only if you cut too far in and touch the quick.
Every 3 to 4 weeks should be often enough.
The best nail grinder for dogs will be the one that fits you and your dog’s disposition. Shop around. Ask your dog-owning friends. With due diligence, you’ll find the best dog nail grinder for you.
