Most dog owners don’t realize how much pain long nails can cause — especially in older dogs with arthritis or joint stiffness.

Here’s what every owner should know.

🔸 1. Overgrown Nails Change How a Dog Walks

When nails touch the ground, they force the toes upward.

Every step becomes a painful push into the nail bed.

Over time, this leads to:

• altered posture

• spine misalignment

• sore hips and shoulders

• worsening arthritis

Many senior dogs who seem “slow” or “stiff” are actually walking with constant nail pain.

🔸 2. Long Nails Increase Slipping and Falls

Big nails = less paw pad on the ground.
Less paw pad = less stability.

For senior dogs who already struggle with balance, this is dangerous.

🔸 3. Long Nails Can Curl Into the Paw Pad

This is more common in small breeds and seniors who move less.
It’s extremely painful and can cause infection.

🟩 How to Keep Senior Dog Nails Safe

⭐ Trim tiny amounts at a time

Older nails often have longer quicks.
Small trims reduce the risk of bleeding or pain.

⭐ Support the whole limb

Never pull a senior dog’s paw far from their body.
Lift gently, keep joints close, and always support the elbow or hip.

⭐ Use non-slip surfaces

A towel, yoga mat, or rubber mat gives stability during trimming.

⭐ If you’re unsure — ask for help

Nail pain is serious for a senior dog.
Professional guidance is always better than avoiding the issue.

🐱 What About Cats? Do Their Nails Need Trimming?

Cat claws are different — they shed naturally.
But senior cats often struggle to shed the outer layers.

You should trim cat claws if:

• they’re thick

• they’re curving toward the paw pad

• they’re snagging fabric

• the cat is inactive or arthritic

You should not trim claws to save furniture.
Scratching is a natural behaviour that supports:

• stretching

• emotional health

• grip

• spinal mobility

Claw trimming for cats should be about health, never convenience.

💛 Final Thought

Nail care isn’t cosmetic.

For senior pets, it’s pain prevention — and sometimes, life-changing.

When we understand how aging really affects our pets, we can help them live more comfortably, securely, and happily.