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How do I properly trim my dog's nails, how often, and with what?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Female | unspayed | 4 years and 6 months old | 4 lbs

Any advice on how to take care of my dog's nails? How often do I cut them and how I cut them? Do you have any recommendations for nail maintenance and other products? Much appreciated.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 20th, 2017

How often you need to cut depends on their length and your dog's lifestyle. If she spends time outside walking on a hard surface then she may wear them down naturally. If she is mostly inside then she will probably need them cut more frequently. If she has white nails then you should be able to visualize the quick and should be able to judge when they need to be cut. You want to avoid the quick as cutting the quick is painful to the dog. The only product you really need is a sharp pair of nail trimmers appropriate for her size. Here is a good article about trimming nails in dogs. https://www.google.com/amp/s/mobile.petcoach.co/amp/article/how-to-trim-your-dog-s-nails-in-5-easy-steps

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