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Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.
Are you tired of the constant clicking sound of your dog’s nails on your floors? Does it drive you crazy when your pup trots across the room, leaving a trail of noise in its wake?
Well, how to quiet dog nails on floors, you may ask.
Think of it like this: you wouldn’t want to walk around in shoes with nails sticking out of the bottom, right?
Well, your dog probably feels the same way.
Long nails can be uncomfortable and even painful for our furry friends.
Plus, they can cause damage to your floors, carpets, and furniture.
In this post, I will show you the steps you can take to stop this from happening again and also share some tips on your dog’s nail health.
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How To Keep Dog Nails From Clicking On The Floor?
Click, click, click…
Is that your dog’s nails clicking on the floor?
Hearing those clicking sounds can be a real nuisance, especially if you’re trying to relax.
The constant clicking sound is sure to drive you crazy!
But how do you get your dog’s nails from clicking on the floor?
Here’s how.
Do you know why your dog refuses to let you cut its paw hair?
Regular nail trimming
Long nails tend to make more noise when they hit hard surfaces, so keeping your dog’s nails short can significantly reduce their noise.
Here’s how to trim your dog’s nails:
- Use proper nail clippers: Choose a good clipper, including guillotine clippers, scissor clippers, and grinder clippers.
- Identify the quick: The quick is a pink flesh that contains blood vessels and nerves. Avoid nipping the quick because this could cause bleeding and discomfort for your dog.
- Trim a little at a time: Trim a few nails and stop before you get too close to the quick. If you’re unsure where the quick is, look for the pink part using a flashlight.
- Reward your dog: Make the nail trimming a positive experience for your dog by offering treats or praise during and after the session.
- Consider professional grooming: If you are uncomfortable trimming your dog’s nails, consider taking them to a professional groomer.
Tip: Also check if your dog has an overgrown dew claw. You might need to fix that too.
Using nail files
A nail file works by smoothing the edges of your dog’s nails, which can reduce the noise they make on hard surfaces.
A nail file can slow the process more than clippers.
Still, it is a good option for dogs with sensitive nails or owners uncomfortable using clippers.
It is also inexpensive and helps to provide the finishing touch.
Here’s how to use a nail file on your dog’s nails:
- Choose the correct type of file: Choose a good file, including metal files, emery boards, and glass files.
- Hold your dog’s paw firmly: Gently hold it to prevent them from moving while you file its nails.
- File the nails at a 45-degree angle: File on the top and work your way down. Avoid filing back and forth, which can cause the nail to splinter.
- Smooth the edges: Use the file to smooth the edges of the nail and remove any rough spots.
- Reward your dog: Offer treats or praise during and after the filing session to make it a positive experience for them.
Interested to learn home remedies for dog red paws?
Investing in nail caps
Nail caps are small plastic or rubber caps attached to the tips of your dog’s nails.
It can reduce your dog’s nails’ noise on hard surfaces and prevent them from scratching your floors. It is also suitable for older dogs or dogs with joint issues.
Here’s how to use nail caps on your dog’s nails:
- Choose the right size and color: Choose one that matches your dog’s coat or personality.
- Prepare your dog’s nails: Trim and clean your dog’s nails. If this is your dog’s first time wearing nail caps, you may need to acclimate them to the process slowly.
- Apply the nail caps: Add a small amount of adhesive to the nail cap and slide it onto the tip of your dog’s nail. Hold it to dry. Repeat for each nail.
- Check the nail caps regularly: As your dog’s nails grow, the nail caps will fall off. Check them periodically and replace them as necessary.
- Reward your dog: Give your dog treats or praise during and after the application process so it will be positive for them.
Dog socks
Dog socks are soft, flexible material for your dog’s paws to provide traction and prevent them from scratching your floors.
It is also a good option for dogs with allergies to certain materials. It doesn’t tolerate nail trimming or filing well.
Here’s how to use dog socks on your dog’s paws:
- Choose the right size: Choose one that fits your dog’s paws snugly but comfortably.
- Acclimate your dog to the socks: Introduce the socks slowly and allow them to sniff and investigate them before putting them on.
- Put the socks on your dog’s paws: Adjust them several times to be in the proper position.
- Check the socks regularly: Dog socks can become loose or twisted, so check and adjust them as necessary.
- Reward your dog: Offer treats or praise during and after the process to make it a positive experience.
Carpet and rugs
Adding soft surfaces to your floors can reduce the noise your dog’s nails make and prevent scratches on hardwood or tile floors.
It is also suitable for dogs with joint issues or prone to slipping and falling.
Here’s how to use carpets and rugs:
- Choose the right carpet or rug: Choose a thick, soft carpet or rug cushioning your dog’s paws. Avoid rugs with a rough or scratchy texture, as they can be uncomfortable for your dog.
- Place the carpet or rug strategically: Place the carpet or rug in areas of your home, such as hallways or near doorways, that you want to protect from dog nails.
- Clean the carpet or rug regularly: Vacuum the carpet or rug regularly to remove dirt and debris.
- Replace the carpet or rug as needed: Over time, the carpet may wear or flatten, which can reduce its effectiveness in reducing noise.
Importance Of Keeping Your Dog’s Nails Clipped
When our nails get longer, it can be uncomfortable for us. The same is true for dogs, and if they are not well taken care of, problems will arise like having a white bump on a dog’s paws.
When you care for your dog’s nails, your dog will likely be healthy and safe.
Here’s why:
- Prevent discomfort and pain: Long and broken nails can cause discomfort, pain, and bleeding in dogs, especially if they grow into the paw pads.
- Reduce the risk of injury: Long and broken nails can also increase the risk of injury, as they can get caught on carpets, furniture, and other objects.
- Promote healthy foot structure: Overgrown or broken nails can alter the shape of your dog’s paws and lead to long-term foot problems.
- Reduce noise and scratches: Clipping your dog’s nails can reduce the noise and damage they cause.
- Improve traction and balance: Long nails make it hard for dogs to walk on slippery surfaces. If you cut your dog’s nails, it will be easier to walk on slippery surfaces.
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Thank you. The rest of the article continues below.
Doggy says, you might be interested to read this too: Why did my dog’s nail turn black?
FAQ
How often should I trim my dog’s nails?
Most dogs need their nails trimmed every 4-6 weeks. If your dog’s nails are clicking on the floor or starting to curl, it’s time for a trim. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and long-term foot problems.
Why do dog nails make noise on the floor?
Dog nails make noise because of a hard substance called keratin, which can create a clicking or tapping sound when it hits hard surfaces. If the nails are too long, they can cause discomfort, damage floors, and increase noise levels.
How do I know if my dog’s nails are too long?
You can identify dogs with long nails through clicking sounds on hard floors, visible nail curling, snagging on surfaces, and pain or discomfort while walking or standing.
How does the sound affect the dog and its human family?
Dogs’ nails clicking on the floor can be irritating and stressful to humans, especially if the sound is constant or loud. The sound may not bother dogs, but long nails can cause discomfort, pain, and long-term foot problems. Quieter nails can benefit both dogs and their human families.
Are there any risks associated with using nail caps?
Nail caps are safe and painless if used as directed. While the risk of infection is low, ingestion is possible if the caps fall off, or dogs may try to remove the caps, which could harm their nails or gums.
In Conclusion: How To Quiet Dog Nails On Floors?
As you can see, there are several effective ways to quiet your dog’s nails on the floor.
Your best bet would be trimming your dog’s nails regularly to prevent long, sharp nails from making noise.
Remember, while noisy nails can be a tad annoying, it’s important to prioritize your dog’s comfort and health by keeping their nails properly maintained.
With a little patience and persistence, you will surely find a solution that works for you and your furry friend.
Check out other dog care tips such as what to do if your dog refuses to pee while traveling, transitioning your puppy from litter box to outside and many more on our blog!
