Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog chews nails. Should I still trim them, or is that enough?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 7 years and 9 months old | 120 lbs

I have a simple Question. Should I cut my dogs nails or let her do it her self? What’s the difference?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 10th, 2019

Some dogs do like to chew on their nails themselves, but it really is good practice to cut your dogs nails once every 4-8 weeks, depending on how quickly they grow. This will help keep them short so that they don't get snagged in things and injured in the process. However, use your best judgement, if the nails are not long, then don't cut them until they are. Best of luck with your pet D. Take care! : )

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 17th, 2020

    It is always advised to cut your pets nails to avoid getting them stuck in things and ripped or torn. Also you want to make sure they don't grow so long that they end up digging into the paw pads, causing pain and infection as a consequence. Most pet owners need to do this at least once every 3-6 weeks, depending on how fast they grow. Thanks for visiting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Take care : )

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
How do I safely fix my dog or cat's painful hangnail at home?
Ouch! Does your pet have a painful hangnail? Dr. Melanie, a certified veterinarian, provides expert guidance on safe trimming or when to seek professional vet care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored