As a Labrador owner, I often struggle to trim her nails because John is an energetic and playful dog. Sometimes, I leave it longer and other times, I cut it extremely short. How short should Labrador nails be?
In this article, I will prepare you on the way to trim a Lab’s nail. In addition, I will teach you when you should cut a Lab’s claws and the tools to use. With the many information and videos online about trimming dog’s nail, I have made it easier for you to learn how to trim any dog’s nails.’
I have seen owners leave their dogs without taking care of their nails. While some dogs stay throughout their life without cutting their nails, others have pet owners who take care of them.
However, not every pet owner can handle this task. I have spoken to people who are scared of hurting their dogs when they cut their nails. You must understand that your dog need to have its nails trimmed to save it from harming itself and not destroying your properties with nails.
How do I know when my dog’s nails are too long?
Every Labrador needs a short nails trimmed to make them neat and safe. When you notice that your dog’s claws are growing too long, you, I recommend that you trim them neatly.
If you don’t trim them, the toes can splay apart slightly and this will make your dog uncomfortable. You should allow the dog walk on hard flooring and listen to the sound of its nails. If you hear clipping sounds, then you should take care of the nails. You should shorten the nails to help the dog walk without discomfort.
Different growth rates
You don’t expect your dog to have the same length of nails. They grow at different rates, which make it a bit tricky. For instance, if you have to dogs and cut their nails at the same time, the two will still have different nail growth rates.
John grows its nails very fast, which requires clipping often. If I cannot take him to the vet, I do it at home.
Wear and tear
Since the Lab’s nails make contact with the ground, you should expect wear. Dogs naturally file their nails by rubbing them on the ground. If you exercise your dog often, this natural nail filing becomes more effective.
When dogs walk on pavements, they wear their nails faster than on grass. While dogs naturally file their nails, you should ensure that the nails do not hurt when they walk. Therefore, you should help your dog walk more to help it trim its nails naturally if you have no time.
Can you cut your dog’s nails yourself? While we can take care of our dogs’ nails, they can trim their nails too. However, you need a professional if you cannot do a good job on your dog.
I don’t recommend a messy job that can leave your dog in great pain after trimming. You need to give your dog a good nail trimming if you want to reduce their wear and tear.
Further, you cut the dead end of their nails, and not blood supply and nerve. If your dog has a neat, clear nails, it becomes easier to cut them without hitting blood vessels. However, if your dog has dark nails, you may need the help of a professional if you cannot trim them well.
Types of nail clippers to buy for a Labrador
We have two types of clippers for dogs, but I prefer using the scissor action type that comes like the Professional Dog Nail Clippers.
Since this clipper works on both medium and large breeds, it works best for my Labrador. On the other hand, the guillotine action works well for most pet owners. The type of clipper you select for your dog depends on your preference and how comfortable you feel using them.
How to cut your dog’s nails
Before you cut your dog’s nails, you should learn the procedure. We have illustrated articles online that can show you the step-by-step process. Meanwhile, if you have a dog with a dark nail, you need to use take very tiny slivers off this type of nail.
You need a file to take off rough edges on the nails. Some dogs may not like you cutting their nails. If you have a strong dog, it might take you time to control it before you can trim the nails.
Teaching dogs to accept nail clipping
You should teach your dog to learn how to lie down whenever you want to trim the nails. The process does not take long and should not stress the dog. The experience should not scare the dog from getting a trim.
Therefore, I recommend that you find creative ways to make your dog comfortable while you trim the nails. A little training can make the dog embrace the process faster, and should come in stages.
You may need the support of a friend to support you. Sometimes, a treat can make the process easier for everyone.
One of the common foot issues in Labs is long toenails. I tell pet owners not to allow their dogs’ nails touch the ground when standing on a firm level surface. However, they should be long enough to provide traction when climbing or digging.
FAQs
How short should Labrador nails be?
Your dog’s nails have to be seen, but must not pass its paw. People with long-haired dogs may find it difficult to see the nails.
How do I trim my Labradors nails?
Labradors should have short nails, but when they start growing, you can notice it from the way they walk. If you don’t take care of the nails, they splay apart and this could be discomforting to them.
If you have no idea when to trim the nails, allow them walk on hard flooring. When they make clipping sounds, it is time to trim the nails.
How often do labs need nails clipped?
You can trim your dog’s nails on a regular basis, approximately every 3-4 weeks; however, it is common for owners to wait too long in between trimmings which can lead to a number of health issues for the animal.