Why Nail Care Matters More Than You Think
Most dog owners know they should trim their pet’s nails, but many underestimate how much damage overgrown nails can cause. Long nails do not just make walking awkward, they can affect a dog’s entire body from paws to joints.
The RSPCA warns that neglected nails are one of the most common grooming issues vets see. Understanding why nails matter is the first step toward protecting your dog’s long-term comfort.
What Really Happens When Nails Get Too Long?
Think about trying to walk in shoes that are far too small, with the toes curled under. Each step would feel awkward and painful. To keep moving, you would shift your weight unnaturally, change the way you walk, and eventually strain your joints.
This is exactly what happens to dogs with overgrown nails. Instead of walking comfortably on their paw pads, the nails hit the ground first and push the toes backwards. Over time this unnatural pressure changes posture, places stress on joints, and forces the body to compensate in ways that can cause long-term damage.
The result is a chain reaction: sore paws, stiff joints, altered gait, and eventually mobility problems that many owners do not immediately connect to nail length. What may look like a small grooming issue is often the hidden cause behind limping, reluctance to walk, or even early signs of arthritis.
The Hidden Health Risks of Overgrown Nails
Paw and Toe Problems
Nails press into paw pads and cause sores. Toes can spread unnaturally which leads to pain between joints. Nails can also split or tear if they snag on carpet or grass.
Posture and Gait Changes
Dogs may hunch their shoulders or arch their backs to adjust. Altered gait places extra stress on hips and knees. Long-term changes may even trigger arthritis earlier than expected.
Risk of Infections
Split or ingrown nails create open wounds. Bacteria can easily enter and lead to paw infections. Chronic infections often result in swelling and limping.
Behavioural Impact
Dogs may become irritable due to constant pain. Some resist exercise which leads to weight gain and reduced fitness. Nail discomfort can even make a normally calm dog snap when their paws are touched.
Stories From the Vet’s Table
Veterinarians often see cases where simple nail neglect snowballs into a larger health issue. A Labrador with nails curled into his paw pads developed abscesses that required surgery. A senior poodle with arthritis struggled to walk because long nails shifted her posture and worsened her joint pain.
These real-world examples show that what seems like a small grooming task can have life changing consequences if ignored.
Signs That Nails Have Become a Problem
- Clicking on floors when walking
- Reluctance to jump, run or climb stairs
- Constant paw licking or chewing
- Nails visibly curling toward paw pads
- Limping or changes in gait
For a deeper breakdown, check out our guide on 5 signs your dog needs a nail trimming.
Why Some Dogs Are More at Risk
Not all dogs wear their nails down at the same rate.
- Indoor dogs do not benefit from pavement walks that naturally file nails
- Senior dogs move less which allows nails to grow unchecked
- Small breeds often grow nails faster relative to their size
- Dogs with health issues such as hypothyroidism may have brittle, fast growing nails
Preventing Overgrown Nails: A Routine That Works
Trim Little and Often
Instead of waiting until nails are long, trim small amounts every two to three weeks. This keeps the quick from extending and reduces stress.
Choose the Right Tool
Clippers can be quick and effective, but they carry a higher risk of cutting into the quick, especially with thick nails. Grinders, on the other hand, allow for gradual filing and leave a smoother finish. They are often the safer choice for anxious dogs or those with tough, senior nails.
Keep Your Grinder in Good Condition
A grinder is only as effective as its maintenance. Grinding heads wear down with use, which makes trimming slower and less comfortable for your dog. Learning how to clean, replace and even sharpen them will make every session smoother and safer. We break down the process step by step in our dog nail grinder maintenance guide.
Make Nail Checks Part of Grooming
Each time you brush or bathe your dog, check their nails. Spotting overgrowth early prevents serious issues.
Common Owner Mistakes That Lead to Problems
Even the most caring owners can unintentionally make nail care mistakes that, over time, cause serious problems. Here are the most common ones to watch out for:
- Waiting Until Nails Are Obviously Long: Many owners wait until nails are visibly curling or clicking on the floor before trimming. By that stage, the quick may have already extended, making it harder to shorten nails without causing pain. Trimming little and often is a safer approach.
- Relying on Pavement Walks Alone: It is true that walking on rough surfaces can wear nails down slightly, but it is rarely enough to keep them at a healthy length. Indoor dogs and those who mostly walk on grass or carpet still need regular trims regardless of how much exercise they get.
- Using Blunt or Poor-Quality Tools: Old clippers and cheap grinders can crush or split the nail instead of giving a clean cut. This not only causes pain but also leaves sharp edges that can snag easily. Investing in a good quality grinder or clipper makes the process safer and more comfortable.
- Avoiding Trims Because the Dog Resists: Some dogs dislike having their paws handled, but skipping trims only makes the problem worse. With patience, gradual desensitisation and rewards, most dogs can learn to tolerate nail care. Avoiding it altogether risks serious health consequences.
- Forgetting Senior Dogs Need Extra Attention: Older dogs are less active and wear down their nails less naturally. Their nails also tend to be thicker and harder to trim. Regular checks and gentle grinding sessions help keep senior dogs comfortable and mobile.
When It Is Time to Call the Vet
Sometimes nails are beyond what owners can safely manage at home. Seek veterinary help if nails have grown into paw pads, if there is bleeding or a bad smell from infection, if your dog is limping severely, or if you have accidentally cut into the quick and bleeding will not stop.
The Australian Veterinary Association advises regular checks and professional help when nails are neglected.
FAQs About Overgrown Dog Nails
Can overgrown nails cause permanent damage?
Yes. Long nails can change the way a dog walks, which may lead to joint stress and arthritis over time.
What should I do if I accidentally cut the quick?
Stay calm and apply styptic powder or cornstarch to stop the bleeding. Keep your dog settled and monitor the nail. If the bleeding does not stop or your dog is in pain, contact your vet.
What if my dog hates nail trims?
Introduce trimming gradually and pair it with rewards. Start by touching and handling their paws without trimming, then slowly bring in the tool. Keep sessions short and reward calm behaviour so your dog builds confidence.
How do I know if my dog’s nails are too long?
If the nails touch the ground or make clicking sounds on hard surfaces, they are overdue for a trim.
Conclusion: Small Task, Big Impact
Trimming nails may seem like a small part of grooming, but its impact on a dog’s comfort and health is enormous. Overgrown nails can lead to pain, infection, posture changes, and even joint damage. The good news is that these problems are completely preventable.
By making nail care part of your regular routine, using the right tools, and paying attention to early signs of overgrowth, you can keep your dog moving happily and pain free for years to come.