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My dog's black nails grow fast. Should a vet clip and cauterize?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Female | spayed | 4 years and 4 months old | 11 lbs

My JRT Kiki's nails need constant clipping. They grow like wildfire which means regular visits to the groomers (i am too afraid). She has black nails which makes life harder. Groomer suggested i take her to vet to get them clipped and vet can then cauterize them if they bleed? Any suggestions welcome?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on May 12th, 2021

Just like people, dogs' nails are constantly growing. Some dogs require nail trims as often as every 2 weeks, but if a dog spends more time walking on concrete, they may be able to go several months between nail trims. Concrete acts as a bit of a nail file, so the abrasive surface can help to file nails on dogs of all sizes. Since you're nervous about clipping Kiki's nails, you may want to try using a Dremel to help file them. Some dogs are afraid of the loud noise, but others are more agreeable to this than clipping - the only way to find out is to give it a shot. Since you're uncomfortable clipping her nails at home, the only other option is to continue taking Kiki either to a groomer or a vet every few weeks/months to have her nails clipped. There's a blood vessel (often referred to as the quick) inside of each nail, which is what can bleed if it's nicked. You can use styptic powder from the pet store to help cauterize any mild bleeding that may occur, which is the same thing that your vet would likely use. More intensive cautery is rarely needed for nail trims. It's extremely uncommon for vets to intentionally cut the nails back short enough that they'd all bleed because this is extremely painful and largely considered to be unnecessary. Sticking with frequent trimmings is enough to gradually help the quicks to become a bit shorter.

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    Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi there, Vets do have blood clotting aids to help if we accidentally cut a little too high on the nail, which can happen during any nail trim. At home though, I just use a pinch of flour if I cut too high on my dog's nails. Sometimes people request that all the nails be cut to bleeding point to shorten them, but this is generally only done if medically necessary- like in cases of neglect, where the nails are so long the pet has trouble walking. I think you're doing a great job with regular nail trims at the groomer. Long walks on pavement or other rough surfaces can help to grind down the nails safely as well. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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