8 Best Dog Nail Grinders with Grinding Guide and Answers to FAQs

When it comes to caring for your dog’s basic needs, you probably think of things like feeding him a healthy diet and taking him to the vet.

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Many dog owners neglect to trim their dog’s nails often enough and a shocking number fail to understand the importance of this seeming simple task. The fact of the matter is, however, that trimming your dog’s nails is extremely important.

If you’ve ever tried to trim your dog’s nails, you already understanding that it is not always an easy task. Between getting your dog to sit still for more than 30 seconds and knowing where it is safe to cut, trimming your dog’s nails can be a nerve-wracking experience.

That’s where a dog nail grinder comes in.

Dog nail grinders enable you to trim your dog’s nails without worrying as much about cutting them too short and you can actually shape the nail as well. Keep reading to learn more about how to grind your dog’s nails and to see our reviews of the top 9 dog nail grinders.

Why Is it Important to Trim Your Dog’s Nails?

Your dog spends a lot of time on relatively soft surfaces such as carpet and grass – these surfaces don’t wear down his nails like concrete sidewalks or asphalt roads. Your dog’s nails grow continuously, so if they don’t wear down naturally, they can grow too long and cause a number of problems.

Here are some of the reasons why it’s important to keep your dog’s nails trimmed:

  • Long nails will click on hard surfaces like flooring which can be very loud.
  • Excessively long nails may hamper your dog’s ability to walk and run properly.
  • Overly long nails can be uncomfortable or painful for your dog.
  • Long nails can catch on bedding and other things, creating a risk for injury.

If you forget to trim your dog’s nails one week, it may not be a big deal.

If you fail to trim them for months at a time, however, they can grow so long that they actually start curling under your dog’s feet. From there, they can start growing into the pads of his feet or they could cause such discomfort that your dog is forced to alter his gait. In the long-term, this can lead to joint problems which may increase his risk for arthritis.

4 Things to Look for in a Good Grinder for Dog Nails

Trimming your dog’s nails is tricky business.

You need to cut enough of the nail to prevent overgrowth, but not so much that you sever the quick (the vessel that supplies blood to the nail).

If your dog doesn’t like to sit still, the task of trimming his nails could become quite the ordeal. You may also have trouble if your dog’s nails are dark – you may not be able to see the quick. In both of these cases, there is a unique solution to consider – a dog nail grinder.

The term “nail grinder” may conjure images of medieval torture chambers but the fact of the matter is that nail grinders for dogs are an easy (and safe) solution for keeping his nails trimmed.

But what are the advantages of a dog nail grinder? Here are a few:

  • The grinder shortens the nail slowly to reduce the risk of cutting too short.
  • Dog nail grinders allow you to shape the nail for better wear.
  • A dog nail grinder is ideal for dogs with large or thick nails that don’t clip well.
  • Most dog nail grinders are battery-powered or rechargeable.

Though dog nail grinders are great, there are some downsides to consider. For example, some dogs are frightened by the sound or the vibration of the grinder. Fortunately, all you need to do is buy a quiet dog nail grinder to solve that problem.

Additionally, it is still possible to hit the quick with a dog nail grinder, though you should be watching carefully as you grind to prevent that from happening. You should also be aware that grinding your dog’s nails will produce some odor and dust, so be prepared for that.

So, what should you look for when shopping for a dog nail grinder? Here are a few things:

  • Size – Dog nail grinders come in different sizes, so you can choose the one that is right for your dog – you should also pay attention to what size is most comfortable for you to hold.
  • Power – Some dog nail grinders offer different grinding speeds – this is good for when you are first getting your dog used to having his nails trimmed with a grinder.
  • Grit – The grit simply refers to the coarseness of the grinding bit (like sandpaper) – the coarser the grit, the more it will take off at a time.
  • Price – Most dog nail grinders are very affordable, but you do need to factor in the cost of replacement batteries and replacement grinding bits.
  • Noise – All dog grinders are going to make some noise, but quiet dog nail grinders do exist – they usually have a lower speed than noisier grinders.

If you think grinding your dog’s nails might be a better option than clipping, keep reading to learn about our top 9 picks for the best dog nail grinders.

Overall Best Dog Nail Grinder

Dremel 7300-PT Dog Nail Grinder

Easily the most popular dog nail grinder on the market, the Dremel 7300-PT grinder is a cutting-edge tool that takes all the work out of trimming your dog’s nails. This grinder features two grinding speeds and comes with 60 grit sanding drums to make quick work of even the thickest dog nails. The wireless design is easy to use and the battery charges quickly. Plus, it is compatible with a wide variety of Dremel sanding drums so you can use a finer grit, if desired, or use the tool for other applications.

  • Pros: Two grinding speeds, 60-grit sanding drum works quickly, rechargeable battery pack, wireless design, compatible with other Dremel drums
  • Cons: Somewhat loud on the high speed setting, assembly instructions are confusing

Best Nail Grinder for Small Dogs

Oster Gentle Paws Premium Nail Grinder

For small dogs, you want to avoid taking off too much of the nail at once because you could accidentally cut the quick. That’s why the Oster Gentle Paws Premium Nail Grinder is such a great choice. This nail grinder features two grinding speeds with an ultra-quiet motor so it won’t scare or stress your dog. This quiet nail grinder also features an adjustable safety guard which not only ensures that you don’t grind too far and also catches the shavings for easy clean-up. With a cordless, battery-operated design, this grinder is easy to use and it works on dogs of all breeds and ages.

  • Pros: Two grinding speeds, adjustable safety guard, catches shavings for easy cleanup, cordless battery-powered design, good for all breeds and ages, quiet motor
  • Cons: May not work as well for large dogs, may be louder on high speed

Best Nail Grinder for Large Dogs

Wahl Ultimate Corded Pet Nail Grinder

If your dog has large, thick nails then you may need a nail grinder designed specifically for that purpose. The Wahl Ultimate Corded Pet Nail Grinder offers variable speeds up to 13,000 RPM to tackle even the thickest nails, but it still runs quietly so as not to frighten your dog. This dog nail grinder is ergonomically designed for comfort with finger grips for added control. It comes in a kit with the corded grinder, a large sanding drum, a small sanding drum, six replacement sanding wheels, a power cord and charger, a wrench, and a durable storage case for all of these accessories.

  • Pros: Variable grinding speeds up to 13,000 RPM, large and small sanding drum, six replacement drums, comes with all necessary accessories, quiet-running motor, ergonomic design
  • Cons: Sanding drum may come loose over time, corded design can be awkward

5 More Top-Rated Nail Grinders for Dogs

If the three dog nail grinders above aren’t quite what you’re looking for, never fear! There are other options available. Here are six more top-rated dog nail grinders to consider:

Furminator Nail Grinder

Brought to you by one of the top pet grooming supply companies, the Furminator Nail Grinder is quick and easy to use. This nail grinder features a cordless design that runs on four AA batteries. It offers two grinding speeds and comes with two replaceable grinding bands as well. The device runs for over 100 hours and offers features such as an automatic LED for safety, ergonomic grips for comfort, and anti-microbial plastic for cleanliness. It is also affordably priced under $15.

  • Pros: Two grinding speeds, cordless design, comes with batteries, comes with replacement bands, runs for over 100 hours, automatic LED for safety
  • Cons: Somewhat loud, grinding bands may come loose

Andis EasyClip 2-Speed Pet Nail Grinder

If you’re looking for a tool to give your dog the perfect pedicure, look no further than the Andis EasyClip 2-Speed Pet Nail Grinder. This dog nail grinder offers two grinding speeds at 7,000 and 12,000 RPM to file your dog’s nails both safely and efficiently. The kit includes the Andis EasyClip 2-Speed Pet Nail Grinder as well as large and small sanding drum attachments, replacement wheels, a finishing stone, a detachable power supply, a wrench, and a silicone sleeve and soft storage case. Plus, this nail grinder is lightweight with an ergonomic design for comfort.

  • Pros: Lightweight and ergonomic design, two grinding speeds, includes large and small sanding drums, works for all breeds and sizes, comes with replacement bands
  • Cons: Not cordless, may be somewhat loud

ConAir Pro Pet Products Dog Nail Grinder

If you don’t mind a corded nail grinder, the ConAir Pro Pet Products Dog Nail Grinder is a good option. This nail grinder is ideal for dogs of all sizes and it is one of the best quiet dog nail grinders on the market. Even though the motor runs quietly, it is a powerful and lightweight nail grinder with an ergonomic grip for comfort. This grinder features a compact design for easy storage and the power cord is very long. Plus, it comes with a protective cover to contain nail dust as well as multiple interchangeable stone and sanding attachments.

  • Pros: Quiet-running motor, lightweight, ergonomic design, interchangeable sanding and stone heads, compact for storage, cover to contain nail dust
  • Cons: Not cordless, safety guard could be better, motor could be stronger

Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Trimmer

If you’re worried about trimming your dog’s nails too short, the Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Trimmer might be a good choice. This nail grinder features an adjustable safety guard with three different openings to accommodate dogs of all breeds and ages. The motor runs very quietly so as not to frighten your dog, and it is ultra-portable with its compact design. Another feature that makes this grinder unique is the fact that it comes with a USB plug so you can charge it anywhere.

  • Pros: Lightweight design, adjustable safety guard, USB charger, quiet-running motor, ultra-portable compact design, easy to clean
  • Cons: Doesn’t hold a charge as well as some models, may take longer for thick nails

FurryFido Pet Nail Grinder Kit

If you’re looking for an affordable dog nail grinder that offers quiet operation and multiple grinding speeds, consider the FurryFido Pet Nail Grinder Kit. This nail grinder features an ultra-quiet motor with speeds up to 10,000 RPM. This makes it a great choice for all breeds and ages, plus it has a sturdy brass tip for long-lasting durability. This ginger comes with six sanding tips and a carrying case, though it doesn’t include the two AA batteries needed to run it.

  • Pros: Quiet operation, multiple grinding speeds, six interchangeable heads, sturdy brass tip, kit comes with case for storage, good for all breeds and ages
  • Cons: Higher speed is somewhat loud, sanding heads may come loose

A Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Nail Grinder on Dogs

guide to using a dog nail grinder

Now that you’ve seen some of the top dog nail grinders on the market, you can see what makes them so great. Not only are they often a safer alternative to traditional clippers, but they enable you to shape the dog’s nail and to take off a little at a time.

So, how exactly do you use a dog nail grinder? Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Get your dog used to the nail grinder by turning it on and off near him several times a day for a few days – you can also give him a treat when you turn it on to help him form a positive association instead of a negative one.
  2. Take your dog’s paw in your hands and check to make sure the hair isn’t so long that it might get caught in the grinder – if it is long, band it back or trim it short.
  3. Check your dog’s nails to see if you can see the quick – it is the dark blood vessel running through the middle of the nail (you may not be able to see it in dogs with dark-colored nails).
  4. Find a comfortable and secure position for your dog – if he’s small you can hold him in your lap, otherwise you may need to put him on a table or counter.
  5. Hold your dog securely with your non-dominant arm, extending his paw with your hand – hold the dog nail grinder firmly in your dominant hand.
  6. Turn the dog nail grinder on and give your dog a few seconds to adjust to the noise.
  7. Working one nail at a time, apply the grinder to each nail – start at the bottom of the tip, slowly bringing the grinding bit up the top of the tip.
  8. Grind the nail one layer at a time, slowly reducing the length and rounding the tip so there are no sharp edges.
  9. Keep checking the nail to see how close you are to the quick – when you see a dark spot appear in the center of the nail, you’re nearing the quick and it’s time to stop.
  10. Finish each nail by grinding in a circular motion around the tip to polish it. Repeat the process with the rest of your dog’s nails.

As you can see, using a nail grinder for dogs is pretty simple and straightforward. Even so, you may still have some questions. Keep reading to see our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about dog nail grinders.

FAQs About Nail Grinders for Dogs

Using a dog nail grinder is simple enough, though it may take a few tries to really get the hang of it. When you do, however, you’ll find that it is an excellent solution for keeping your dog’s nails short. If you still want to learn more, here are the answers to some of the top FAQs about dog nail grinders:

  1. Can You Use a Nail File on a Dog? – A dog nail grinder is similar to a nail file except for the fact that it is electronic. If your dog doesn’t tolerate a nail grinder and you’re not comfortable using clippers, a nail file might be an acceptable alternative. Keep in mind that a nail file won’t take off very much at a time, however, so you may need to use it several times a week to keep his nails short.
  1. What is Dog Nail Dremeling? – Some of the most popular dog nail grinders are Dremel tools. A Dremel is simply a small, handheld rotary tool that uses interchangeable bits. Dog nail dremeling involves using a Dremel tool with a sandpaper-like bit to grind down the dog’s nails a layer at a time.
  1. What Sanding Grit Should You Use on Dog Nails? – When using a dog nail grinder, you need to avoid taking off too much of your dog’s nail at once, otherwise you could cut the quick. The best way to avoid this is to use a fine sanding grit – 120 usually works well for dog nails.
  1. How Long Should Your Dog’s Nails Be? – The speed with which a dog’s nails grow differs from one breed to another, so there may not be a one-size-fits-all solution for how often to trim your dog’s nails. Instead, you should pay attention to the length and determine when it is time to trim them. Your dog’s nails should be just above the pad when his foot is flat on the floor.
  1. How Often Should I Trim My Dog’s Nails? – Generally speaking, you should plan to trim your dog’s nails once every week or two, depending how quickly they grow. If you choose to use a nail grinder, you may want to do it once a week to maintain the proper length. For nail clippers, every two weeks may work better just to make sure you don’t accidentally cut the nail too short and sever the quick.

As simple a task as it may seem, keeping your dog’s nails trimmed is very important.

When your dog’s nails are the proper length, he can run and play without discomfort. Plus, you don’t have to worry about him scratching your floors (or yourself, for that matter).

With a dog nail grinder, keeping your dog’s nails trimmed is easier than ever, so give it a try with one of the top-rated dog nail grinders we’ve reviewed above. Good luck!

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