I’m not very well at the moment, with a temperature and feeling urgh, but I don’t think it’s coronavirus as I haven’t got a cough. It could be just because I’ve been working a bit too hard and I’m run down. Thank you to everyone who has sent messages and posts – they’ve really meant a lot and helped me.
So Catherine, one of my wonderful assistants, has stepped up and uploaded today’s Coronavirus Canine Challenge. It’s most suitable for her to do anyway, because she’s a groomer so she knows what she’s talking about.
A few people have contacted us, worried about how to care for their dog’s nails, with groomers and vets being shut for routine stuff. Today’s challenge is therefore to give your dog a pedicure.
Many dogs generally keep most of their own nails trim, because walking on hard surfaces helps wear the nails down. But with fewer walks that might not be working as well as usual. And the dew claws, the nails on the side of the front legs, don’t wear down easily at all with normal exercise and these are the nails that most owners will need to cut.
Just like with us, dogs’ nails grow at different rates. Some people will need to trim their dogs nails every week, others just once every two months or so. Watch Catherine’s video in the group to find out how to trim nails safely.
The key points are:
– cut the nail parallel to the curve, not across it
– trim only tiny bits at a time
– use an emery board or file if your dog has black nails and you can’t see the quick (the pink bit) or if you’re nervous about cutting them
Teaching your dog to be happy being handled, to be brushed or have their nails clipped is an essential part of early socialisation.
I’m worried about the new puppies at the moment. It’s almost impossible for them to get the range of socialisation opportunities they need to become well-adjusted happy, confident pets. Because socialisation can’t wait for us to come out of lockdown. The socialisation window closes at around 16 weeks of age, so the clock is ticking.
I’ll be back with a new training tip tomorrow and a new challenge on Monday.
Keep training and keep safe,
Carol
PS There’s lots more information and downloadable help sheets on our Free Stuff page, too. We’ve lots of ideas for training you can do while you’re stuck at home.