We have a problem with Duke...

**joanofark** · 09-15-2004, 12:46 PM

Duke's Higher Toe nails on is hind legs are starting to become really long. They are so long that the are starting to curl up. It doesn't seem to bother him but how do we trim them when they look like a spiral?

Should we call the vet or is there somthing we could do?

Thanks

**Tollers-n-Dobes** · 09-15-2004, 12:50 PM

It sounds like He needs to have them cut, Dog toe nails curl when they are too long. Maybe the vet can cut them or you can take him to the groomer.

**tatsxxx11** · 09-15-2004, 03:28 PM

Now that they've grown so long, you'll need to be very careful re: how much you trim off this first time, to avoid hitting the quick. You'll have to trim, or have trimmed, a little bit at a time. I'd definitely take him to your vet to have them done. It's so important to keep them trimmed reguarly. Walking on too long nails can cause him pain and affect his ability to walk. Maybe the vet can show you how to do it

Let us know how he did!

**KYS** · 09-15-2004, 05:58 PM

I agree, since they are so long I would
have them trimmed at the vets.
After that you can do the trimming yourself.

**dragondawg** · 09-15-2004, 08:06 PM

I'm assuming you are talking about the dewclaws. Normally these are the easiest to trim. But if you have never trimed nails before it's best to go to the Vet, and ask how it's done.

Most dogs will react to toe nail clipping in a negative way. It probably causes discomfort in that the nail is usually pulled a little during clipping. I've always tried to make it sort of a game with mine. After clipping 1 or 2 nails I stop to give em a treat. They eventually come to associate nail clipping not only with slight discomfort, but also with ... treats!

**joanofark** · 09-15-2004, 09:21 PM

Thanks everyone!

We will try to do what you all said and tell you all how it goes! If you all have any other advise please tell me!

Thanks again!

**wolf_Q** · 09-15-2004, 09:30 PM

Please get them trimmed soon as they will start growing right into the pad. I have found that it is easier to use cat nail clippers to trim curled dewclaws because it's smaller and can fit in the curl. If he's ok about it you can try clipping the very end of the curl just a *tiny* bit at a time...maybe wait a few days in between so the quick can recede, eventually you should be able to get them trimmed back. Make sure you have styptic powder/quick stop on hand to stop bleeding in case you cut too far. If you are not comfortable with it then take him to a vet or groomer.