How to Tell If Your Dog's Nails Are Too Long
When it comes to grooming, it’s easy to forget about nail trimming until something doesn’t feel right. Dogs don’t usually tell us with words, but their paws do. Long nails can throw off the way a dog walks, make simple movements uncomfortable, or even lead to health issues. That’s why understanding how to tell if your dog's nails are too long matters so much.
The good news is there are some clear signs to watch for. And with a few easy dog nail trimming tips, we can help keep our pups feeling their best. Whether we notice something’s off during a walk or during cuddle time on the couch, small checks now can prevent bigger issues later.
Signs Your Dog’s Nails May Be Too Long
One common clue that nails are getting too long is the tap-tap sound they make on hard floors. If you hear your dog clicking across tile or wood, those nails are probably overdue for a trim. Ideally, a dog’s nails shouldn’t touch the ground enough to make noise with each step.
Another thing to watch for is how your dog’s nails actually look. Are they starting to curl? Do they press into or sit close to the paw pads? If you see any nails that are growing sideways or downward into the pads, that can cause pain or a shift in how your dog walks.
Sometimes the changes are more about movement. You might see your dog standing stiffly, walking slower than usual, or hesitating to jump onto furniture. These small adjustments are often their way of avoiding pressure on sore paws. Long nails interfere with how their foot touches the ground, which can throw off their balance and cause discomfort over time.
Check Nail Length While Standing Still
One of the easiest ways to figure out nail length is by checking how the nails sit when your dog is standing completely upright. If they just barely graze the floor, that’s usually the right length. Nails that bend, curve, or stick out to the sides—especially the dewclaws—may need to be trimmed.
It's helpful to look at your dog’s paws from both the front and the side. You want to see that the toes stay straight and close together. If the toes spread out when standing, a long nail might be pushing everything out of place. This spreading also puts stress on the joints, especially in older dogs or those with existing joint tightness.
Don't skip the dewclaws, either. They’re easy to miss because they rest slightly above the paw and don’t hit the ground as often. But that also means they don’t wear down naturally and can grow faster than the rest. Keeping these in check is part of a full nail care routine.
How Long Nails Can Affect Your Dog’s Health
Long nails do more than just affect how your dog walks. Over time, they can create pressure that reaches up into the joints. Each step can bend the toes in a direction they’re not meant to go, which can cause joint stress, discomfort, or make an old injury feel worse.
Outdoors, overgrown nails are more likely to snag on roots, fences, or even their leash, especially if the nails have started to curve. A small snag can lead to a torn or split nail, which is painful and sometimes needs extra medical care to fix.
In some cases, we’ve seen dogs stop playing as much or hesitate to run. A once active dog might slow down simply because walking doesn’t feel good anymore. Keeping an eye on nail length gives us a way to spot those kinds of changes early, so we can help our dogs stay more comfortable and confident on their feet.
When and How to Check Their Nails
Nail checks don’t require a big process. One of the easiest ways to stay ahead is by pairing quick nail checks with routines you already do. Bath time is one of the best moments. Wet fur lets you see the nails better, and many dogs are already calmer during a bath. Another good time is during brushing or cuddle time when your pup is in a relaxed mood. Video tutorials in The Dog Buzz’s learning center show safe handling and grip for checking and trimming nails at home.
We like to remind people that regular nail trims keep the quick (the part inside the nail with nerves and blood vessels) shorter too. Long gaps between trims make the quick grow out, which makes the next cut harder. Keeping up with a regular pattern—even small trims more often—makes a big difference.
There are many dog nail trimming tips that can help make the experience smoother. Things like using a file on sharp edges, taking breaks to offer a treat, or using a tool that fits your dog’s size and coat can make a big difference. For thick nails or nervous dogs, staying calm yourself helps your dog feel calm too.
When to Get Professional Help
Not every dog is open to nail trims, and that’s okay. If your pup pulls away, hides their paws, growls, or flinches when you touch their feet, it may be time to let a professional take a look. Groomers can trim nails quickly and safely, especially for dogs who resist handling at home.
You might also see nails that are cracked, extra curved, or looking discolored. Some dogs naturally have irregular nail shapes that require tools you may not have. If the nails are putting pressure on the pad or rubbing against other toes, getting help makes the trim safer and more comfortable for your dog.
Sometimes it’s just about peace of mind. If you’re unsure about where the quick is, or nervous about trimming too short, a groomer can show you what to watch for or take care of it altogether. Getting help doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong—it means you’re doing what’s best to care for your dog in a way that works for both of you.
Keep Those Paws Comfortable This Fall
The start of fall gives all of us a good reason to look over the grooming routines we’ve been following. Cooler walks, hikes through fallen leaves, and time spent indoors can all shift how much wear and tear your dog’s nails get. That makes this a perfect time to check if their nails are in good shape.
Short, healthy nails help dogs move comfortably across slippery floors and uneven trails. They protect the foot structure and keep your pup feeling good as the weather cools. With a few checks and some patience, fall can be a comfortable, healthy season for your dog’s paws—and a little peace of mind for you every time you hear silence instead of that tap-tap on the floor.
For more help keeping your dog’s paws healthy and stress-free, we’ve put together videos that share calming techniques, tool tips, and gentle dog nail trimming tips you can use anytime. At The Dog Buzz, we believe a little knowledge and routine care go a long way in helping your pup stay happy on their feet. We’d love to hear your best nail trimming tips in the comments below!