Dog Nail Clipping: Why It Matters, Costs, and When to See a Vet
Dog Nail Clipping: Why It Matters, Costs, and When to See a Vet
Dog nail clipping costs $15-$30 in Australia when done by a professional groomer, or $20-$50 at a veterinary clinic. Long nails cause posture problems, joint pain, and difficulty walking. Most groomers can safely trim nails, but severely overgrown nails or dogs with bleeding quicks should see a vet. Regular nail trimming every 4-6 weeks prevents these issues.
If you’ve ever heard your dog’s nails clicking on the floor, or noticed them struggling to walk comfortably, it’s likely time for a trim. But how often should you clip your dog’s nails? And should you use a groomer or a vet?
In this guide, we explain why nail clipping is essential for your dog’s health, break down the costs, and help you decide when to book with a groomer versus a veterinarian.
Why Long Nails Are Dangerous
Long nails don’t just look unsightly—they can cause serious health problems. According to the Australian Veterinary Association, overgrown nails can lead to:
- Posture Problems: Long nails force your dog to shift their weight, causing unnatural stance and gait
- Joint Pain: The altered posture puts stress on joints, leading to arthritis over time
- Difficulty Walking: Nails that touch the ground can cause your dog to slip, especially on smooth surfaces
- Ingrown Nails: Severely overgrown nails can curl and grow into the paw pad, causing infection
- Broken Nails: Long nails are more likely to snag and break, causing bleeding and pain
When nails are too long, your dog’s toes can’t make proper contact with the ground. This forces them to walk on the back of their paws, similar to walking in high heels. Over time, this causes permanent damage to joints and tendons.
How Often Should You Clip Your Dog’s Nails?
The frequency depends on your dog’s lifestyle and nail growth rate:
| Lifestyle | Nail Growth Rate | Recommended Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Active (walks on pavement) | Slow (nails wear down naturally) | Every 6-8 weeks |
| Moderate Activity | Moderate | Every 4-6 weeks |
| Indoor/Senior Dogs | Fast (no natural wear) | Every 3-4 weeks |
| Dewclaws Only | Very fast (never touch ground) | Every 2-3 weeks |
Signs your dog’s nails are too long:
- You hear clicking when they walk on hard floors
- Nails touch the ground when standing
- Your dog is limping or favouring certain paws
- Nails are curling or growing sideways
- You can’t see the “quick” (the pink part inside the nail)
Dog Nail Clipping Costs in Australia
Nail trimming is typically included in a full groom, but standalone nail clipping services cost:
| Service Provider | Standard Trim | Overgrown Nails | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional Groomer | $15 – $25 | $20 – $30 | Usually included in full groom |
| Veterinary Clinic | $25 – $40 | $40 – $60 | May include sedation if needed |
| Mobile Groomer | $20 – $30 | $25 – $35 | Convenience fee included |
Additional costs to consider:
- Nail Filing: $5-$10 extra for a smooth finish
- Bleeding Quick: Usually no extra charge (groomers use styptic powder)
- Sedation: $50-$150 if your dog is too anxious or aggressive (vet only)
- Infection Treatment: $100-$300 if nails are infected (vet required)
Groomer vs Vet: When to Use Each
Use a professional groomer if:
- Your dog’s nails are moderately long (not severely overgrown)
- Your dog is calm and cooperative during handling
- You’re already booking a full groom (nail trim is included)
- The quicks are visible (white or light-coloured nails)
- You want a quick, affordable service
See a veterinarian if:
- Nails are severely overgrown (quicks are very long)
- Your dog is extremely anxious or aggressive during nail trims
- Nails are infected, bleeding, or ingrown
- Your dog has black nails and you’re unsure where to cut
- Your dog has a medical condition (diabetes, bleeding disorders)
- You need sedation for the procedure
According to the RSPCA Australia, most dogs can have their nails trimmed by a groomer, but severely overgrown nails may require veterinary intervention to safely shorten the quicks over multiple visits.
Black Nails: Can Groomers Handle Them?
Yes, experienced groomers can safely trim black nails. They use techniques like:
- Small Incremental Cuts: Trimming tiny bits at a time to avoid the quick
- Visual Inspection: Looking for the “chalky” appearance that indicates the quick is near
- Dremel Tool: Using a grinder to gradually shorten nails without cutting
However, if you’re unsure or your dog has very dark nails, a veterinarian can use specialised equipment or sedation to ensure a safe trim.
What Happens If You Cut the Quick?
The “quick” is the blood vessel and nerve inside the nail. If cut, it will bleed and cause pain. Here’s what to expect:
- Bleeding: Usually stops within 2-5 minutes with styptic powder
- Pain: Your dog may yelp or pull away, but the pain subsides quickly
- Recovery: Most dogs are fine within minutes, though they may be hesitant for the next trim
Professional groomers are trained to handle quick cuts and will apply styptic powder immediately. If bleeding doesn’t stop after 10 minutes, contact a vet.
Preventing Overgrown Nails
The best way to avoid expensive vet visits and keep your dog comfortable is regular maintenance:
- Schedule Regular Trims: Book nail clipping every 4-6 weeks as part of your grooming routine
- Walk on Pavement: Regular walks on hard surfaces naturally wear down nails
- Check Dewclaws: These nails never touch the ground and need more frequent trimming
- Start Early: Puppies who get used to nail trims early are less anxious as adults
To find a dog groomer near you who can safely trim your dog’s nails, browse our verified directory of professional groomers across Australia.
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