Clickty, clickty, click, click. Do you hear the sound of your dog’s nails? It may be time to trim them.
While it could be a nice alarm system, long dog nails can actually harm your pup. YIKES!
I know a lot of women love beautiful, long, painted fingernails. But we have hands and not paws. The problem is when our dog’s nails get to the point we can hear them they can become painful for our pups.
OUCH!
Plus, those long nails can disrupt our doggie’s gait and cause leg pain. A bell on your dog’s collar sounds much better, doesn’t it? Today, let’s dig in and discover the benefits of a dog nail grinder.
*Updated: September 7, 2024
Budget Tip:
The truth is that a dog nail grinder pays for itself in no time. Additionally, you can do it on your schedule and it's easy. For me, it means I don't have to call the vet or groomer for a nail trim or have to factor that into my monthly bills. It really is a win-win for my dog, Henry and my pocketbook!
What is a dog nail grinder?
My dog, Henry’s nails seem to grow like they’re dipped in Miracle Grow. So, being able to care for them on my own time and save money is a must!
The negatives with most pet nail grinders, in general, have been two-fold:
- Noise
- Vibration
How to use a dog nail grinder
Most nail grinder instructions are very easy to follow. If your dog hasn’t been to the groomer, you’ll definitely want to go very slowly with introducing the nail grinder.
1. Leash
The instructions suggest putting your dog on a leash so he doesn’t want to escape the dog nail trimming session.
2. Introduce without running
Begin by introducing your dog to the uniquely designed grinder without it running and give your dog a treat.
3. Allow inspection with running
Then turn on the nail grinder and let your dog sniff it and give him another treat or a few treats.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 as necessary
The instructions state you may need to repeat the last two steps a few times until your dog becomes comfortable with the grinder.
Let the dog nail grinding begin
This is very similar to the nail grinder I use on my dog. It works great!
1. Turn on the grinder
Once you and your dog are ready to begin the grinding process, turn on the grinder.
2. Select the grinder head
Most nail grinders have multiple openings
- Larger opening for bigger dogs or tough nails
- Smaller side for tiny dogs or softer nails
3. Pick your speed
You’ll also want to select a grinding speed. However, you may want to work up to the high speed. It should be easy to adjust the speed.
4. Grind
Gently place your dog’s nail into the grinding hole you selected. Generally, it’s recommended to not grind any nail for more than 5-6 seconds at one time.
That’s it. Now, work your way around to all your dog’s nails and give a treat as you deem appropriate. Or give your dog a break as he needs.
Is a dog nail grinder safe for home use?
Yes, a dog nail grinder should be built with safety in mind. These products are generally well-tested. You can even read reviews on various nail grinders.
Can I use a dog nail grinder on dark nails?
Yes! Henry has dark nails. To be honest, his nails are dark thus, I have been hesitant about trimming his nails myself. I didn’t want to trim them too short. However, I found that a nail grinder is easy. I’m convinced that a dog nail grinder is a game changer.
Why should I use a dog nail grinder?
Of course, you can use dog nail clippers to trim your dog’s nails. But most groomers will tell you that a grinder does a superior job. Dog nail clippers will leave the nails rough. Additionally, there’s a great chance of cutting the quick, especially if your dog has dark nails.
This is a nail grinder you may love as much as I love mine!
How often should I grind my dog’s nails?
While I have not conducted a DNA test on Henry, I’m absolutely convinced he’s part Chia Pet or at least weed. I swear I’ve never seen anything grow so fast. For Henry, I’ll have to trim his nails every 10-14 days. For most, “normal” dogs it’s recommended every 3-4 weeks.
What are the special features to look for in a great dog nail grinder
There are a few features you’ll want to look for in a dog nail grinder. These include:
1. Whisper quiet
This was huge for grinding since noise has been a major ding on other nail grinders.
2. No vibration
A big negative with most nail grinders has been the vibration, which can scare your pet, make it more difficult, and your pup reluctant to be willing to do it.
3. Long-lasting diamond grinding heads
This is important for me because as I said, Henry’s fur and nails grow insanely fast.
4. Grinding heads easy to replace
Again this is important for me because I know I’ll have to replace the grinding head more often than most dog parents. Most dog nail grinder tools will have different grinding heads available. For example:
- Super Soft – Best for finishing
- Regular – Best for average dog nails (this is the one that comes with most grinders)
- Extra hard – Best or thick or large breed dogs
5. Built-in LED lights
These are great for helping to see your dog’s nails while grinding. Henry is mostly black so the added light really helps me.
6. USB charging mode
This means, no need for batteries which means no waste of batteries when they are used. On a personal note, this is a biggie for me.
7. Lightweight and easy design
This is important to me because holding heavy things for a long time will make my hands cramp.
8. Easy to clean
Once again I know this is important because I will be using this grinder more than the average dog parent.
Are there any other features that make a dog nail grinder stand out?
Yes, there are a few other features that are very useful.
- Charge lasts for at least 4 hours
- Safety cover (great for those wiggly dogs so that no accidents happen)
- Two speeds or more for easier grinding of hard nails
- Safety cap to keep the grinder clean and protected
- 30-day (or more) return policy just in case it doesn’t work for your pup or you
Is a dog nail grinder right for my dog?
I can tell you a nail grinder has been a game-changer for Henry and me. If you want to decrease your expenses, your dog is game for a home nail trim, and you’re up to a new task, it could be a great option.
Want to try a dog nail grinder? This is one you may really like!
How does a dog nail grinder make my wallet happy?
You may not think that a dog nail grinder can save money. But surprisingly, it can keep your pup healthier. Consider the following for a moment.
| Issue | Potential Cost |
| Vet visit | $50-250 |
| Arthritis | $225 |
| Vet nail visit | $40-70 |
| Grooming nail visit | $25 |
| Pain medication | $10-50 |
| Pain-free dog | BEYOND WORDS!!! |
Related articles:
- Steps To Build A New Dog Budget
- How to Find the Best Vet
- How to Find the Best Dog Groomer
- Mobile Dog Grooming – Fact and Fiction
- My Dog Loves Savings Accounts. Surprised?
- Can Healthy Dog Paws Improve Your Bottomline?
Paw-some Savings Alert: How a Dog Nail Grinder Could Be Your Wallet’s New Best Friend
Admittedly, I wasn’t sure if I was up to grinding Henry’s nails until I tried it. Surprisingly, it has been easy, convenient, good for Henry, and great for my wallet. You may be shocked at how a dog nail grinder can change your dog’s health and your pocketbook. Never think you can’t do something. You can always do more than you think. Also, if you find you or your furry friend just can’t deal with a home dog nail grinder, then return it and look for cost savings elsewhere.
Very cool! I’ve been dremeling my dogs’ nails since my Kitsune was a puppy, so 13ish years now. I very much prefer it to using nail clippers on them. My dogs must REALLY be part weed, because I do their nails once a week. I’ve never heard of this brand before. I just use an old fashion nail dremel. It’s like 6+ years old, noise, vibrations, and all. Lol. Thankfully I took the time to really get my dogs used to it- they sometimes fall asleep while I’m doing their nails! I can see how something quieter would be helpful, especially to owners just starting to grind their dog’s nails.
I’m so impressed you can use a dremel so successfully. Henry had a groomer who used a dremel. It never bothered him. I would be bothered by the noise and vibration. I suppose like anything, practice makes perfect. But like you said, with a dremel, you’d definitely have to do a lot of training with your dog, if it was something new to him or her. Or like for me, new to me. I’m totally impressed with your skills, Michelle! Two paws up!
To a cat owner using a grinder sounds so weird (as cats only have small paws and I use clippers!) but I know this is often a very important skill for any dog owners armoury and that a dog would suffer without proper paw care.
Your post covers all the questions I know I would ask myself and you made me laugh with your dog weed 😉 comment. I like that the grinder is not loud (which would startle some dogs I am sure) and easy to use. For anyone new to this type of equipment your post is immensely helpful.
This sounds a big leap forward in dog paw care and the company has done a fantastic job.
You’re so kind. I’m really happy to know you found this article informative and a bit humorous. Two things I aim for in each post.
You are absolutely correct. LuckyTail is a big step for home dog nail care. There’s always got to be a pack leader that solves the problems. This company seems to be it.
Give your kitties a pet for Henry and me. He would LOVE a kitten of his own. 🐶💖🐱
I have a love-hate relationship with nail-grinders. I love the professional-grade ones we have at the vet clinic. But they take a bit of getting used to and because the entire grinding head is open a quick movement from a pup can make for you accidently grinding your hand rather than the dog’s nail (ouch!). But they are relatively quiet and don’t “tug” on the nail or leave sharp edges. All of the at-home nail grinders I’ve found either take forever to work, are SUPER loud or “tug” on the nail. I’d definitely be open to trying out something new – this sounds awesome! Right now I just use regular nail-trimmers, which are fine, but I don’t like the sharp edges.
Oh my! Those professional grade dog nail grinders would make me nervous. I’d probably end up grinding one of my fingers off. I really like how safe the LuckyTail grinder is for both dog and operator. Plus, with it being quiet and with no vibration, it helped me be calm too the first time I tried it. I have admit I was a bit worried. But it was silent and motionless. So, I was able to be much calmer than if there was a lot of noise or vibration. I would image that helps many dogs too. As dog parents know, our pups easily pick up on our emotions. If you’re thinking about upgrading to a home dog nail grinder I would definitely recommend LuckyTail.
What a great review. I like that the Lucky Tail Dog nail grinder is quiet and has an LED light so you can see better when trimming your dog’s nails. Plus, the quiet grinder doesn’t scare your dog. I can appreciate that Lucky Tail is an environmentally responsible company. Thanks for sharing your review of this product. This would make for a great practical gift for dog Moms and Dads.
Kamira,
Thank you for your kind words.
You’re absolutely right LuckyTail dog nail grinder would make a terrific dog parent gift. I hadn’t thought of that until you mentioned it. I know I would be thrilled with receiving as a gift.
By the way, those LED lights are genius! I can easily see Henry’s nails.
Great review and it sounds like an amazing solution to cutting their nails but having lousy vision I pay my groomer every two months to do Layla’s nails, I am petrified to even try by myself especially as she is a wiggle butt.
That’s a good idea to leave the nail trimming to the groomer since your eyesight isn’t so great. Good recognition. Wiggle butts can also be a bit difficult. It’s definitely good to know what you should and shouldn’t tackle as a dog parent. That’s the sign of a great dog parent.
Such a great and helpful post! I used to trim my dwarf bunny’s nails, but after a few times with my Huskies, (who would intensely dislike getting their back paws done!), I decided it was safer to let the groomer come in between “spa” days to just do their nails and to trim the paw pad fur! Yup. I chickened out of nail care and left it to a pro! I’m Pinning this great info to share!
Awe, thank you! If you are having major issues with your dog in trimming nails or you have anxiety in doing it, then by all means it’s a super idea to leave it to the professionals and have the groomer do it. That’s great recognition of your skills as a dog parent and it’s being a responsible dog parent. Great job!
Thank you for this very detailed review. We have a “problem” dog who is a major struggle with taking him to the vet. We now have someone come to the house but I would like to try doing ourselves. This sounds like a great tool.
I’m actually really amazed at how easy LuckyTail dog nail grinder is to use both for my dog and for me. I was nervous at first. But turning it on and hearing almost nothing and feeling nothing, put me at ease. I think that also help put Henry at ease. If you’re thinking about a way to take care of your dog’s nails easily, then LuckyTail is definitely worth a try.
Wow! Such a helpful and detailed review. I am definitely going to try this one. Thank you for letting us know about it.
I’m so glad I was able to provide good information about LuckyTail. I hope you enjoy your dog nail grinder much as Henry and I do ours. 😊💖🐶
After reading your review, I just ordered a Lucky Dog nail grinder, fingers crossed it will work for my pups!
My fingers are crossed as well, Beth. It works really well for Henry. I have to admit, I was nervous at first. Now, it’s easy, just like brushing him.
I’d LOVE to hear how the nail grinder works for you.
I’ve found the Luckytail Dog Nail Grinder to be a worthwhile tool for keeping my furry friend’s nails trimmed and comfortable!
I’m glad to hear you’re enjoying your Luckytail Dog Nail Grinder as well. It certainly does work well for Henry’s nails. Thank you for sharing your experience!
I highly recommend the Luckytail Dog Nail Grinder as it is efficient, user-friendly, and delivers excellent results for your furry friend’s nail grooming needs.
I really like Luckytail Dog Nail Grinder too for Henry as well. I’m so happy you are enjoying it as too. Thank you for sharing your experiences.