We all know that long nails in dogs, including the Belgian Malinois, often have negative repercussions.
Some of these consequences include facing embarrassment when walking with them, sliding on the floor, experiencing ingrown nails, and even damaged sofas and scratched floors.
Nail cutting and trimming is a fundamental part of grooming in dogs. A dog with well-trimmed nails is a sign of good hygiene and health standards.
However, dogs rarely enjoy the process of nail trimming and clipping. It is an anxiety-laden experience that can easily become painful.
This is especially true if you cut the nail too close to the inner nerve and blood vessel that nourishes it.
This detailed article will discuss how to cut Belgian Malinois nails to maintain high hygiene standards.
Without further ado, let us get started!
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How To Cut My Belgian Malinois Nails?
Before you cut your dog’s nails, you have to understand the anatomy of its nails.
Like other dogs, the Belgian Malinois’s toenails consist of two major parts. They are the nail itself, which are similar to human nails, and the quick.
The latter consists of an inner cuticle that consists of the nerve and blood vessel. Since the nail has no nerves, cutting them is not painful until you access the quick.
Start While They Are Young
Cutting the nails of your Belgian Malinois is often a stressful process.
As a result, it is advisable to start handling your dog’s feet and trimming their nails while they are young.
This aids in making them accustomed to the process, making it easier every time you pick up the nail trimmers.
Thus, some dogs will easily sit on a table or your lap and hand you their paw, while others require some restraint.
Some dog owners prefer giving their canine companions a spoon of peanut butter to lick as you handle their feet and nails.
So, let us look at a step-by-step guide on how to cut Belgian Malinois nails.
1. Get Your Belgian Malinois Accustomed To Having Their Feet And Nails Handled
An essential part of grooming your dog’s nails is making the dog used to getting their feet handled.
Begin by frequently holding and touching your dog’s paws and let him sniff the nail cutting tool.
Do not forget to offer him plenty of praise and even a treat if he allows cutting the nails.
If your dog has sensitive feet, start step by step until they allow you to trim the nails.
The training can take several weeks, so remember to be patient and dedicated to the process.
On the day of cutting the nails, the dog should be calm and more docile to facilitate the process.
2. Choose The Most Suitable Nail Cutting Tool For Your Belgian Malinois
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With numerous [amazon link=”B07S1W15YD” title=”nail cutting tools” link_icon=”amazon” /] available on the market, it can be confusing to choose an ideal tool for your dog.
From grinder tools, scissors to guillotine types, ensure you select a tool that you are comfortable using and one fit for your dog.
It is also advisable to have [amazon link=”B0002H3RBU” title=”styptic powder” link_icon=”amazon” /] or any other type of clotting powder nearby if you cut a nail too short.
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3. Proceed To Cut Your Belgian Malinois Nails
Before cutting the nails of your dog, start by thoroughly cleaning your dog’s paws.
Next, firmly but gently place your forefinger above a toe, on the skin above its nail, and position your thumb on the toe’s pad.
Ensure no fur is in the way.
The next step is to slightly push your thumb up and backward on the toe’s pad as you gently push your forefinger forward to expose the nail in its entirety.
Grab your nail cutting tool and only cut the tip of the nail. Likewise, cut the dewclaws found in the inner side of the paw for a thorough job.
Avoid cutting past the nail curve as you risk cutting the quick, which is painful and may cause bleeding.
If your dog has dark nails, be wary of a chalky white ring, which serves as its quick.
Cutting the dog’s nails in a well-lit area also aids in avoiding the quick. Remember to reward your Belgian Malinois after you finish cutting their nails.
Can I File My Belgian Malinois Nails Instead Of Clipping Them?
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Sometimes, you will find that your dog will prove uncooperative when you try to cut their nails.
Filing your dog’s nails is an ideal alternative to simplify the job.
This method is also more comfortable and convenient for owners who are afraid of cutting the quick.
However, it is vital to note that filing can also create an uncomfortable sensation.
Thus, you have to hold down your dog’s paw just like you would when cutting their nails with a nail cutting tool.
Luckily, it is possible to familiarize your dog with the feeling of having their nails filed using [amazon link=”B07PFCLHKR” title=”a motorized tool” link_icon=”amazon” /].
You can associate this experience or sensation with praise, a reward, or other forms of positive reinforcements to make the process an enjoyable experience for the dog.
Several dog care and nail experts specialize in the manufacturing of double-sided dog nail files.
As a result, you are likely to find that such files decrease the chances of your dog’s nails peeling and splitting compared to nail clippers.
Some of them even contain crystal glass, which is a non-porous material that is dishwasher-safe, can be sanitized, and does not absorb water.
Additionally, dog nail files last forever as they do not wear out despite the frequency of use.
Most of them come in a protective casing to prevent them from breaking.
Many experts recommend filing your dog’s nails at least once a week as part of your weekly grooming routine.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to cut your Belgian Malinois nails properly, you can regularly groom them without any fear.
However, if you or your dog are uncomfortable with nail cutters, there are other options available.
You may opt to file his nails instead or use a grinder tool, which works similarly to the dog file.
It is also essential to note that regular maintenance of your dog’s nails is more than for appearance purposes.
Long nails are painful and unhealthy for the dog as they can reduce traction, injure the dog’s tendons, and lead to deformed feet over a prolonged period.
Regularly cutting its nails will eventually cause the quick to recede, which is perfect for easy maintenance and the dog’s overall well-being.
