Lifetime health & preventative care
Nail, dew-claw & paw care
Keep feet comfortable and know when to ask for help.
Nail length and the quick
Overlong nails can affect comfort and gait. Check all nails, including dew claws, which may not wear on the ground. The quick contains blood vessels and nerves; cutting it hurts and causes bleeding. It is harder to see in dark nails. Ask a veterinarian, nurse or competent groomer to demonstrate before attempting trimming.
Trim gently, with help when needed
Use suitable dog nail clippers and take small amounts rather than a large cut. Work only while your dog is comfortable and stop if you cannot judge a safe length. A grinder is an alternative for some dogs: introduce sound and vibration gradually, avoid heat build-up and keep hair clear. There is no need to complete every nail in one session. Seek professional help for curled, embedded or very overgrown nails.
Check paws after walks
Look at pads and between toes for cuts, swelling, soreness or trapped material. Rinse away salt or grit with clean lukewarm water and dry gently. Protect against hot surfaces and sharp ice; do not pull at a deeply embedded object. Persistent licking or redness between toes may reflect irritation, infection, allergy or a foreign body.
Injuries and bleeding
A cracked or torn nail can be painful and needs veterinary advice, especially if the quick is exposed or the dog is lame. For bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean dressing while arranging advice; do not cut off a partly attached nail. Seek urgent care for heavy or persistent bleeding, deep cuts, severe pain or inability to bear weight. Cross-check first aid, heat and winter safety.
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Grooming & Body Care · Keeping my dog healthy · New symptoms: find the right next step
Evidence and review
General information, not diagnosis or an individual treatment plan. Sources include veterinary professional guidance, veterinary charities and relevant regional parasite organisations. Clinical recommendations need individual veterinary interpretation.
About this guidanceReview details and sources
Evidence and review
Reviewed 2 October 2026 · Review sooner if advice, distribution or requirements change.