Nail Control

Regular nail control is an essential part of health care for dogs in dog units. Healthy nails are not only important for the dog's mobility and comfort, but also for its operational capability. Professional nail control helps to identify problems early and avoid serious complications.

Why is nail control important?

A dog's nails fulfill important functions when running, climbing, and maintaining balance. Nails that are too long or damaged can lead to significant problems that affect the dog's operational capability. Regular checks enable early detection of changes and the initiation of appropriate measures.

Functions of Nails

Nails serve dogs as an important tool for various activities:

• Surefootedness: Nails provide grip on various surfaces
• Balance: They support balance when running and jumping
• Propulsion: Nails help with acceleration and braking
• Digging function: Some dogs use nails for digging
• Communication: Nails leave tracks and scent marks

Consequences of Neglected Nails

If nails are not regularly checked and cared for, the following problems can occur:

• Malpositions: Nails that are too long can lead to malpositions of the toes
• Pain: Ingrown nails cause severe pain
• Inflammations: Injured nails can become inflamed
• Movement restrictions: The dog walks differently to avoid pain
• Operational incapability: Severe nail problems can temporarily make the dog operationally incapable

How often should nails be checked?

The frequency of nail control depends on various factors. As a rule of thumb: At least once per week a thorough check should be performed. For active dogs in dog units that are trained daily and regularly in operation, a check even every 2-3 days can be useful.

Factors for Check Frequency

What is checked during the control?

A professional nail control includes several aspects that should be systematically checked. Each nail must be examined individually, as the condition can differ between individual nails.

Length of Nails

The optimal nail length is reached when the nail does not touch the ground when the dog is standing. A simple test method:

1. Dog stands on level, firm ground
2. Observe whether the nails touch the ground
3. If touching, the nails are too long
4. Ideal: 1-2 mm distance between nail and ground

Nail Shape and Structure

Healthy nails have a smooth, slightly curved shape without cracks or splinters. During the check, the following characteristics should be observed:

• Surface: Should be smooth and without cracks
• Shape: Slightly curved, not too strongly bent
• Color: For light nails: rosy translucent, for dark: evenly colored
• Structure: Firm, not brittle or fragile

Nail Bed and Nail Wall

The nail bed and nail wall must also be checked:

• Redness: Can indicate inflammation
• Swelling: Indicates infections or injuries
• Discharge: Pus or blood are warning signs
• Overgrowths: Skin growths at the nail base

Interdigital Area

The area between the toes should also be checked:

• Foreign objects: Stones, splinters, or other objects
• Injuries: Cuts or tears in the skin
• Inflammations: Redness or swelling
• Moisture: Excessive moisture can lead to problems

Signs of Nail Problems

During the check, various warning signs should be recognized that can indicate problems. An experienced eye can identify problems early.

Visual Signs

• Nails too long: Touch the ground when standing
• Splinters or cracks: Visible damage to the nail
• Discoloration: Unusual color changes
• Thickening: Nails appear thicker than normal
• Breakage: Parts of the nail are missing

Behavioral Signs

The dog itself often shows through its behavior that something is wrong:

• Limping or lameness: Avoids loading the affected paw
• Licking or biting: Excessive grooming of a specific paw
• Protective posture: Holds the paw up or does not load it properly
• Restlessness: Cannot lie or stand quietly
• Aggressiveness: Reacts aggressively when the paw is touched

Olfactory Signs

An unpleasant odor can indicate infections:

• Putrid odor: Indicates bacterial infections
• Sweetish odor: Can indicate fungal infections
• Strong odor: General sign of inflammation

Checklist for Nail Control

A systematic checklist helps to not overlook any important aspects:

Preparation

• Create a quiet, well-lit environment
• Bring dog into a relaxed position
• Check all four paws one after another
• Have notepad ready for abnormalities

Check Each Individual Nail

• Check length (touches ground?)
• Examine surface for cracks or splinters
• Assess shape and curvature
• Check color and structure
• Check nail bed for redness or swelling
• Check nail wall for inflammation
• Examine interdigital area

Documentation

• Note abnormalities
• Take photos if needed
• Make decision: Trimming required?
• In case of problems: Contact veterinarian

Common Problems and Their Recognition

During the check, various problems can be recognized that require different measures.

Ingrown Nails

Ingrown nails grow into the skin and cause severe pain:

Recognition features:

• Nail grows sideways into the skin
• Redness and swelling around the nail
• Dog shows pain reactions
• Possible pus formation

Measures:

• Immediate veterinary treatment required
• Do not attempt to trim yourself
• Pain medication may be necessary

Broken Nails

Nails can break, especially in active dogs:

Recognition features:

• Part of the nail is missing
• Bleeding possible
• Dog shows pain
• Open wound at the nail bed

Measures:

• Stop bleeding
• Disinfect wound
• See veterinarian in case of heavy bleeding
• Nail must be professionally trimmed

Infected Nails

Bacterial or fungal infections can occur:

Recognition features:

• Redness and swelling
• Pus formation
• Unpleasant odor
• Dog licks or bites the paw

Measures:

• Veterinary treatment necessary
• Antibiotics or antifungals required
• Regular cleaning
• Bandage may be necessary

Cracked or Split Nails

Dry or brittle nails can crack:

Recognition features:

• Visible cracks in the nail
• Nail appears brittle
• Possible bleeding
• Dog shows discomfort

Measures:

• Nail must be trimmed
• For deep cracks: Consult veterinarian
• Moisture care for nails
• Check nutrition

Connection Between Control and Trimming

Regular control is the basis for proper nail trimming. Without thorough control, it cannot be decided whether and how the nails need to be trimmed.

Decision Criteria for Trimming

The control provides important information for the decision to trim:

• Length: Nails that are too long must be shortened
• Condition: Damaged nails require professional treatment
• Growth rate: Individual adjustment of trimming frequency
• Problems: Ingrown or infected nails require veterinary treatment

Timing Between Control and Trimming

Ideally, the control should be performed before each trimming. This enables:

• Accurate assessment of condition
• Identification of problems before trimming
• Adjustment of trimming technique to condition
• Avoidance of complications

Practical Tips for Control

Experience and the right technique make the control more efficient and pleasant for the dog.

Create Optimal Conditions

• Lighting: Good lighting is essential for thorough control
• Quiet: Avoid distractions, create a quiet environment
• Position: Dog should be able to lie or stand comfortably
• Time: Plan sufficient time, don't rush

Accustoming the Dog

Dogs should be accustomed to nail control from an early age:

• Regularity: Always check at the same time
• Positive reinforcement: Rewards after the control
• Patience: Proceed slowly, don't overwhelm
• Routine: Fixed procedures create security

Professional Support

In case of uncertainties or problems, professional help should be sought:

• Veterinarian: For health problems
• Dog groomer: For professional care
• Trainer: For tips on accustoming
• Experienced colleagues: Exchange of experience in the dog unit

Documentation of Control

Proper documentation helps to recognize changes and optimize care.

What Should Be Documented?

• Date and time of the control
• Condition of each nail (length, texture)
• Abnormalities (cracks, discolorations, etc.)
• Measures taken (trimming, cleaning, etc.)
• Problems and their treatment
• Next control planned

Benefits of Documentation

Good documentation enables:

• Trend analysis: Recognition of changes over time
• Early detection: Problems are recognized faster
• Optimization: Adjustment of care routine
• Traceability: For colleagues and veterinarians
• Quality assurance: Maintain professional standards