How often should you trim your dog's nails? There isn't one number that fits every dog, but there is a simple way to know when it's time, and a routine that keeps paws comfortable for life. Here's what veterinary organizations and recent research say.
Key takeaways
• Trim when nails touch the ground as your dog walks; for many dogs that's about once a month.
• Dogs that rarely walk on hard surfaces, seniors and some breeds need it more often.
• Small, frequent trims help the quick recede so nails can stay short.
The short answer
The American Kennel Club advises trimming your dog's nails when they are long enough to touch the ground while walking. For most dogs that works out to roughly once a month. Dogs that walk a lot on pavement may naturally wear their nails down and go a little longer, while less active dogs or those that spend most of their time on soft surfaces may need a trim every two to three weeks.
Some dogs need it more than others
A 2025 VetCompass study estimated that 5.64% of dogs had a nail-clipping event recorded in UK primary veterinary care during 2019. Researchers reviewed 2,440 confirmed cases drawn from a source population of 2,250,741 dogs. Chihuahuas and Beagles had higher odds of a recorded clipping event than the reference group. This describes veterinary records; it does not compare grinders with clippers or show that Silenza Pro prevents injuries (Ahmed et al., 2025).
Signs your dog's nails are too long
- You hear clicking on hard floors.
- Nails touch the ground when your dog is standing.
- Toes look spread apart or twisted.
- Your dog slips on smooth floors or seems reluctant to walk.
- Nails snag on carpet or blankets, or scratch more than usual.
Why little and often works best
The quick, the living part inside the nail, grows along with the nail. Veterinary guidance explains that trimming a small amount frequently encourages the quick to recede, so nails can be kept short while avoiding the quick. Short sessions are also far less stressful for your dog than an occasional big trim.
What about cats?
Cats are different. Not every cat needs routine claw trimming. Cats with limited mobility or overgrown claws may need help; ask your vet to assess whether trimming is appropriate. Overgrown claws that curve toward the paw pads should always be addressed.
Make it a routine your pet doesn't mind
- Pick a regular day, for example every other Sunday.
- Choose clippers or a grinder according to your dog's response and the guidance of your groomer or veterinarian.
- File 1–2 seconds per nail, check, and repeat.
- Reward with treats and praise, every time.
Sources
- American Kennel Club. How to Trim Your Dog's Nails at Home.
- American Kennel Club. Good Grooming: Improving Your Dog's Nail-Care Routine.
- Ahmed L.A. et al. (2025). Epidemiology and clinical management of nail clipping in dogs under UK primary veterinary care. Journal of Small Animal Practice, 66(12), 925–933.
This article is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. For injured or infected nails, talk to your veterinarian.