Nail Care

Introduction

Nail care is an essential part of health maintenance for service dogs in dog units. Regular and professional nail care not only prevents pain and Bleeding, but also ensures the full operational capability of the dogs. Neglected nails can lead to misalignments, joint problems and limitations in mobility, which is particularly critical for working dogs.

Why Nail Care is Important

Health Aspects

Long nails affect the dog's natural posture. The Feet are no longer placed correctly, which leads to a changed body posture. This can cause the following problems:

• Misalignment of joints
• Overloading of tendons and ligaments
• Back pain due to compensatory posture
• Inflammation from ingrown nails
• Cracking in the nails

Operational Relevance

For service dogs in dog units, correct nail length is particularly important:

• Optimal traction on various surfaces
• Precise movement sequences during search and rescue operations
• Reduced risk of injury during jumps and climbing actions
• Improved balance and stability

Anatomy of the Dog's Nail

Structure of the Nail

The dog's nail consists of several layers:

1. Horn Layer (Onyx): The outer, hard layer made of keratin
2. Dermis (Quick): The inner, blood-supplied layer with nerves
3. Nail Bed: The base where the nail is attached to the toe

The Quick - The Sensitive Interior

The quick is the blood-supplied and nerve-supplied part of the nail. It grows with the nail and determines how far the nail can be trimmed. In light nails, the quick is visible as a pink area, while dark nails require careful work.

Tools for Nail Care

Guillotine clippers

Nail clippers are the standard tool for nail care. There are different types:

• Guillotine Clippers: Ideal for thin to medium nails
• Bypass Clippers: Precise cuts, suitable for all nail sizes
• Sickle Clippers: For very thick and large nails

Nail Grinders

Electric nail grinders offer a gentle alternative to cutting:

• Reduces risk of injury
• Enables precise control
• Ideal for anxious dogs
• Creates smooth edges

Additional Equipment

• Styptic Powder: Stops bleeding from accidental cuts into the quick
• Flashlight: Helps assess dark nails
• File: For finishing and smoothing
• Disinfectant: For cleaning tools

Regular Inspection

Frequency of Inspection

The frequency of inspection depends on various factors:

• Activity Level: Very active dogs naturally wear down nails more
• Surface: Hard floors wear down nails more
• Age: Older dogs require more frequent inspection
• Breed: Some breeds have fast-growing nails

Inspection Points

During each inspection, the following aspects should be checked:

1. Nail Length: Are the nails too long?
2. Nail Shape: Are there cracks or splintering?
3. Ingrown Nails: Especially the dewclaw
4. Inflammation: Redness or swelling in the nail bed
5. Wear: Irregular wear may indicate posture problems

Professional Nail cutting

Preparation

Before trimming, the following steps should be observed:

• Position dog in a quiet environment
• Provide sufficient light
• Have all tools ready
• For anxious dogs: Second person for support
• Have rewards ready

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Securely Grasp the Paw

The paw should be held firmly but gently. The dog should be relaxed and not try to pull the paw away.

Step 2: Identify the Nail

In light nails, the quick is well visible. For dark nails, work carefully, cut small pieces and check regularly.

Step 3: Choose the Right Cutting Point

The nail should be cut about 2-3 mm before the quick. If uncertain, rather cut less.

Step 4: Precise Cut

The cut should be made at a 45-degree angle, parallel to the natural nail shape. A clean cut prevents splintering.

Step 5: Finishing

After cutting, sharp edges should be smoothed with a file to prevent injuries.

Checklist: Trimming Nails

• Dog is relaxed and calm
• Sufficient light available
• All tools cleaned and disinfected
• Quick identified (visible in light nails)
• Cutting point chosen 2-3 mm before the quick
• Clean cut at 45-degree angle
• All four paws treated
• Dewclaw not forgotten
• Sharp edges smoothed
• In case of injury: Styptic powder applied
• Dog rewarded after successful trimming

Special Features of Different Nails

The Dewclaw

The dewclaw (afterclaw) is located on the inside of the front or hind paw. It does not touch the ground and therefore does not wear down. Special attention is required:

• More frequent inspection necessary
• Can easily become ingrown
• Should be kept shorter than the other nails
• In some breeds it is surgically removed

Front Paws vs. Hind Paws

The nails on the front paws are generally thicker and harder than those on the hind paws. This requires adapted cutting techniques:

Common Problems and Solutions

Too Long Nails

Symptoms:

• Clicking sounds when walking on hard surfaces
• Nails touch the ground when standing
• Altered gait

Solution:

Regular, gradual shortening. For very long nails, the quick should first recede before the nail is fully shortened.

Ingrown Nails

Symptoms:

• Redness and swelling
• Lameness
• Licking of the affected paw

Solution:

Immediate professional treatment by a veterinarian. Prevention: Regular inspection and shortening of nails, especially the dewclaw.

Cracked or Split Nails

Symptoms:

• Visible cracks in the nail structure
• Bleeding possible
• Pain when walking

Solution:

Shorten affected nail until the crack is removed. For deep cracks, veterinary treatment. Prevention: Adequate moisture supply and regular care.

Injury to the Quick

Symptoms:

• Bleeding from the nail
• Pain reaction from the dog
• Possible fear of future nail care

Solution:

Immediately stop bleeding with styptic powder. Calm the dog. For heavy bleeding, veterinary consultation. In the future, proceed more carefully.

Preventive Measures

Regular Routine

A fixed routine makes nail care considerably easier:

• Weekly Inspection: Check all nails at least once a week
• Monthly Trimming: As needed, depending on growth
• Documentation: Recording of nail length and abnormalities

Promote Natural Wear

Activities on various surfaces promote natural wear:

• Walks on asphalt and concrete
• Climbing and jumping
• Running on various terrains

Nutrition

A balanced diet with sufficient nutrients supports healthy nail growth:

• Biotin (Vitamin H) promotes healthy horn growth
• Zinc is important for nail structure
• Omega-3 fatty acids support skin health

Special Requirements for Service Dogs

Operational Preparation

Before each operation, nails should be checked:

• Optimal length for maximum traction
• No sharp edges that could cause injuries
• No cracks or splintering

Documentation

In dog units, nail care should be documented:

• Date of last nail care
• Person performing the care
• Abnormalities or problems
• Planned next inspection

Team Training

All dog handlers should be trained in nail care:

• Theoretical knowledge about anatomy
• Practical exercises on models
• Supervision during first own attempts
• Regular refresher of knowledge

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Too Much at Once

A common mistake is cutting too much of the nail at once. This increases the risk of injuring the quick.

Correct: Cut small pieces and check regularly.

Ignoring the Dewclaw

The dewclaw is often forgotten because it is not visible when the dog is standing.

Correct: Check the dewclaw during every nail care session and trim if necessary.

Insufficient Lighting

In poor light, the quick is difficult to see, especially with dark nails.

Correct: Always provide sufficient light, use a flashlight if necessary.

Stressful Situation

If the dog is stressed or restless, nail care should be postponed.

Correct: Only work in a calm, relaxed atmosphere.

Cooperation with Veterinarians

Regular Veterinary Inspection

Even with regular own nail care, veterinarians should check the nails during preventive examinations:

• Professional assessment of nail length
• Early detection of problems
• Consultation for difficult cases

In Case of Problems

A veterinarian should be consulted in the following situations:

• Repeated injuries to the quick
• Ingrown nails
• Inflammation in the nail bed
• Severe cracks or splintering
• Unusual nail growth

Summary

Nail care is a fundamental pillar of health maintenance for service dogs. Regular, professional care ensures not only the well-being of the dogs, but also their full operational capability. Dog handlers should be trained in nail care and establish a fixed routine. In case of uncertainties or problems, a veterinarian should always be consulted.

Most Important Points:

1. Regular inspection at least weekly
2. Careful, gradual trimming
3. Special attention to the dewclaw
4. Documentation of care measures
5. Cooperation with veterinarians in case of problems

Through professional nail care, dog units make a decisive contribution to the health and performance of their service dogs.

Last Update: October 21, 2025