If your dog avoids walking on hard floors, hesitates during play, or starts clicking around the house like it’s wearing tap shoes, their nails may be crying out for a trim.
Overgrown nails can cause far more than annoying sounds. Left untreated, they can lead to joint strain, posture issues, and chronic pain. As a pet parent, it’s crucial to spot the signs early and take action.
In this blog post, we’ll explore five key signs that your dog’s nails need trimming and share simple, vet-approved ways to fix them, including tips for anxious pets, grooming schedules, and recommended tools suitable for home use.
1. You Hear Clicking on the Floor
One of the most obvious signs of overgrown nails is the unmistakable "click-click-click" when your dog walks across hard surfaces.
Why It Matters:
- Clicking means nails are too long and are hitting the ground before your dog’s paw pads.
- This unnatural contact alters your dog’s gait and can lead to joint stress, back pain, and muscle compensation issues.
- The longer this continues, the more strain it places on the knees and spine, especially in older dogs or those with arthritis.
How to Fix:
- Use a quality dog nail grinder or clipper to reduce the length so the nails no longer touch the floor.
- Trim gradually to avoid cutting the quick.
- Incorporate treats and praise throughout the process to build trust and make it a positive experience.
2. You Notice Posture or Walking Changes
Changes in your dog’s walking pattern, reluctance to run, or slow movement could all point to overgrown nails causing discomfort.
Why It Matters:
- Long nails cause your dog to shift their weight backward, putting pressure on joints and muscles that aren't designed for that strain.
- This unnatural posture can lead to joint misalignment, fatigue, and long-term orthopaedic issues like arthritis.
How to Fix:
- Regular trimming helps restore natural foot positioning.
- Consider softening your dog’s nails by bathing them before trimming or using a grinder for thicker nails.
- For senior dogs, proper nail care can be the difference between mobility and discomfort.
3. Their Nails Are Curling or Splitting
If your dog’s nails have started curling around or cracking, it’s a sign that they’ve been neglected for some time and need immediate attention.
Why It Matters:
- Curled nails may embed into the paw pad, causing intense pain, inflammation, and potential infection.
- Split or splintered nails can snag on carpets or outdoor surfaces, leading to painful tears that might require professional veterinary treatment.
How to Fix:
- Begin a consistent trimming routine every two to four weeks, using the appropriate tools.
- If nails have curled into the paw or appear infected, consult a vet immediately before attempting to trim.
- Switch to a grinder for added control and to prevent future splitting.
4. Your Dog Resists Paw Touching
If your usually tolerant dog starts flinching or pulling their paws away, it's likely due to discomfort or negative associations with pain.
Why It Matters:
- Overgrown nails can cause ongoing discomfort, making your dog sensitive about having their paws handled.
- This resistance creates a grooming challenge and adds stress to future trims.
How to Fix:
- Use desensitisation techniques: start by gently handling your dog’s paws without any tools, increasing duration and intensity over time.
- Offer rewards such as treats or belly rubs when they remain calm.
- Once your dog is comfortable, introduce the nail grinder or clipper in a slow, non-threatening way.
- Use calming aids like lavender sprays or vet-recommended anxiety chews if necessary.
5. You Can See Nails Extending Past the Pad
A visual check is one of the simplest ways to evaluate whether your dog’s nails need attention.
Why It Matters:
- If nails extend well beyond the paw pad or begin to curve, they can cause gait issues, painful landings, and increased risk of snagging or breakage.
- Long nails can even affect your dog’s balance, especially in small or toy breeds.
How to Fix:
- Mark your calendar with a regular grooming schedule (every 3–4 weeks).
- Keep a log or photo diary to track nail growth over time.
- Invest in tools like the PetTrimPro™ grinder, which comes with safety guards and variable speed settings.
Don’t Wait for the Signs: Be Proactive
The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to fix. Over time, the quick grows with the nail, reducing how much you can safely trim.
Prevention Tips:
- Trim or grind your dog’s nails regularly, even before you hear the clicking.
- Use a grinder with a light to avoid hitting the quick.
- Incorporate grooming into playtime or after walks to help your dog associate it with positive experiences.
Tools That Make It Easier
Dog Nail Clippers:
- Great for quick trims on calm dogs
- Best for light-coloured nails
Dog Nail Grinders:
- Ideal for anxious pets and thick, dark nails
- Recommended by Aussie vets for safety and ease of use
For a full comparison, read our guide: Dog Nail Grinders vs. Clippers: Which is Better?
When to Seek Professional Help
Some dogs simply won’t tolerate nail trims at home, and that’s okay. If your dog shows signs of aggression, extreme fear, or has medical complications such as arthritis, brittle nails, or previous trauma, consult a groomer or your local vet.
Professional services can:
- Handle challenging trims with sedation if necessary
- Provide tutorials or demonstrations for you to follow at home
- Help you identify underlying medical issues linked to poor nail health
Final Thoughts
Overgrown nails are more than a cosmetic issue. They affect your dog’s comfort, movement, and long-term health. The good news? With the right tools and a little practice, nail trimming can become a stress-free part of your grooming routine.
Be proactive. Watch for these five signs, and act early. Your dog will walk, run, and play more comfortably with well-maintained nails.
For more expert grooming tips, don’t miss our vet-approved guide: How to Trim Your Dog’s Nails at Home Safely.