It is now standard practice for owners to focus on both dental care as well as care for their dog's nails. This wasn't always so, however researchers and vets have proven that dogs with good dental care routines are less likely to have early tooth loss, digestive problems and problems with bad doggy breath. In addition good care of the nails helps to prevent lameness, infections of the feet and also skin infections that can develop with pressure from long nails and nails that scratch or cut the skin's surface.
Dental Care Basics
In almost any pet store there are now a wide selection of dental care tools and toys for your dog. There are several different brands of dental care bones available for dogs of all sizes. Some of the most common brands available are:
- Greenies
- Petrodex
- Nylabone Dental Chews
- Iams Tartar Control Treats
- Nutri Dent
There are also dog toothbrushes that are designed to provide a harder rubber surface covered with bristles, so the chewing action causes the brushes to actually scrape tartar off the teeth and gums. Finger sleeves for owners to provide dental care and tooth brushing are also an option. Don't use human toothpaste, dogs really dislike the flavor, but rather consider some delicious chicken, beef or cheese toothpaste that will make brushing time a treat.
It is recommended to brush your dog's teeth at least every other day for two to three minutes. If you are using a dog tooth brush or a finger sleeve type brush, you can monitor that each part of the mouth is receiving the same amount of dental care. Dogs that are using a self-brushing toy may need to be checked to make sure that they aren't just chewing and brushing one part of their mouths.
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Maintenance - Clipping a Dog's Nails
Keeping your dog's nails clipped to the right length and filing off any snags or splinters will help prevent any type of skin injury or cuts when your dog is scratching. This is particularly a problem if they scratch around the tender areas of the mouth, ears or eyes as they can cause significant damage.
To properly care for your dog's nails use dog nail clippers only, either a slotted scissor type for small or medium breeds or a guillotine type for any size of dog. The guillotine styles are safer and prevent accidentally cutting the dog's skin, plus they tend to give a smoother cut edge to the dog's nails. Which every style you prefer make sure the blade is sharp as a dull blade causes splintering and pain. Never use human nail clippers, they will shatter the nail and cause pain to the dog.
Start with the dog in a sitting or down position, then grasp the dog's foot firmly in your off hand. Hold the dog nail clippers parallel to the floor and insert the nail into the clipper below the quick. If your dog has white nails, the quick can be seen as the pinkish core of the nail, like your cuticle. If your dog has black nails, look at the back where the nails starts to hollow, that is the end of quick. Using firm and even pressure, clip the toenail. If you do nip into the quick the dog will yelp, pull back and the toenail will bleed. Use styptic powder to stop the bleeding and allow the dog to calm down before proceeding. Most dogs will hate having their nails cut if this ever happens so be very careful.
If you aren't comfortable clipping your own dog's nails, talk to your vet or groomer, they will be happy to show you how or do it for you. Routine dental care and maintenance of nails will help your dog life a healthy and happy life, plus it will make your grooming routine shorter and easier.
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