A dog’s Nail health is more important than you may think. Keeping nails trimmed not only helps dogs to feel more comfortable but it protects them from infections and possible injuries. Keeping nails short may even help prevent digging and scratching behaviors. Clippers and nail files are helpful in maintaining the fast-growing nails of a dog, but the easiest way to help grind down sharp nails is by using a Dremel.

Dremels are safer to use on a dog’s nails than you would believe. They might even be the healthiest and simplest option when it comes to filing down those tough doggy-nails. Since it may seem difficult to choose the best Dremel for dog nails, here are some helpful tidbits to simplify the process.

About Nail Grinders and Dremels

A Dremel is a rotary grinding tool that is perfect for sanding down or entirely removing rough edges. Nail grinders like this have a spinning sander tip that gently grinds surfaces. There are many different tips, bits, and sanding drums that can be attached to the Dremel. Dremels have been used by professional dog groomers for years to grind down thick nails.

Reasons Using a Dremel is a Great Option

Standard nail clippers can not only be frightening to dogs but can pinch sensitive nerve endings. Additionally, some dogs have tougher nails than others and may have different nail shortening requirements. Dremels are great because they gently sand down the nail and give users lots of time to decide exactly what length nails need to be. In many cases, dogs respond better to Dremel nail grinding than they do to clipping. Some Dremels even have variable speeds and power settings so that new or inexperienced users can shorten the nails of their dogs easily.

Best Dremel Reviews

1. Dremel 7300-PT 4.8V Pet Nail Grooming Tool

This Dremel provides a safe, effective, less stressful alternative to clipping and lets you safely and carefully grind nails in stages. It’s conveniently cordless and compatible with an array of Dremel sanding drums and bands. Its battery can last for up to three hours which gives you plenty of time to trim nails.

Pros:

• Cordless

• Easy to Use

• Compatible with Many Sanding Bits

• Designed Specifically for Use on Pets

Cons:

• Not all Users Prefer Battery Operated Dremels

• May Loose Charging Life Over Time

• Of Medium Quality

What’s Unique?

What’s so great about this sander is its versatility, low-price, simplicity in use, and cordless applications.

Approximate Cost: $30

2. Dremel 8220-1/28 12-Volt Max Cordless Rotary Tool

The compact size and weight of this Dremel allows access into tighter areas and reduces user fatigue which makes the entire sanding process more enjoyable. This Dremel is of premium design and made with quality materials. It can be used with many attachments and charges in under an hour. Its high-performance motor lasts and lasts. The Dremel comes with a kit that contains 28 accessories, carrying case, 1-hour charger, and one 12V max lithium-ion battery

Pros:

• Can be Used With or Without Cord

• Made of Premium Materials

• Comes With Versatile Kit

Cons:

• More Expensive Than Some Dremels

• Not Specifically Designed for Dogs

• Would be Good for Experienced Dremel Users

What’s Unique?

This is one of the lightest and highest quality small Dremels out there. It’s reliable, of good design, and will last a long time.

Approximate Cost: $80 for smaller set

3. Dremel 7300-N/8 MiniMite 4.8-Volt Cordless Two-Speed Rotary Tool

This is a fantastic small cordless Dremel that is compatible with many Dremel bit accessories. It’s ideal for the delicate task of trimming nails and has two speeds which are great for smaller dogs or for regular nail maintenance. The kit this Dremel comes with contains a 4.8-volt cordless two-speed rotary sander, eight accessories, wrench, and rechargeable battery. It also comes with a 2-year warranty for your peace of mind.

Pros:

• Small and Lightweight

• Inexpensive

• Easy to Use with Two Speeds

• Great for Beginners

Cons:

• Not Ideal for Big Dogs or Overgrown Nails/ Tough Jobs

• Built With Lower Quality Materials

What’s Unique?

This is a great inexpensive light Dremel that works well. It’s ideal for smaller dogs or routine maintenance and is also perfect for beginners who aren’t quite ready for a high-power Dremel. It would make a great Dremel for groomers that have to travel as well, as it is so light and small. This is one of the smallest Dremels out there that can still be used for dogs. It would work on larger dogs in a pinch but probably shouldn’t be purchased for continuous use on larger dogs.

Approximate Cost: $25

How to Grind Your Dog’s Nails

If you aren’t sure what the grinding process looks like, here is a quick step by step guide on using a Dremel to trim the nails of a dog.

1. Be sure you have all of the tools you need. This means the Dremel of your choosing, the sanding drums of your choice, a damp rag to wipe up any dust and clean the sanded nail, and possibly safety glasses.

2. Get the dog in the correct position. It may take time for dogs to be comfortable with having their nails done, but they will adjust when they realize how painless the process really is. For small to medium dogs, holding them on your lap belly up will work best. Larger dogs can be laid on a table on their side. Comfort your dog and have them in a calm state of mind before you begin. You may want a partner to help you hold a larger dog if this is their first time having their nails done.

3. Turn your Dremel on and start grinding one nail at a time. Beginners should use a low speed. Aim for a rounded edge. Do not sand down too far! The “quick,” which is where all of the dog’s nerve endings are, should never be exposed. If you begin to see the tell-tale pin-prick of white preceding the quick, or if your dog starts showing heightened sensitivity to the grinding, stop. Continuously watch for signs of discomfort and be aware that each nail may have a slightly different quick length. Don’t assume that each nail will be the exact same length. When each nail is rounded and smooth, move on to the next, remembering to calmly reassure your dog that everything is okay as you go.

4. Seal the nail by rubbing it down with olive oil or by using a petroleum jelly. This will help clean up any dust and prevent air drying and sensitivity. Sealing the nail will also help it retain moisture and stay healthy. Other great nail sealants include coconut oil, shea butter, mineral oil, and grape-seed oil. Do not seal a nail with conditioners that contain high amounts of water or silicone. The goal is to smooth the nail, keep moisture in, prevent drying or flaking, and protect the freshly sanded nail from the elements.

Things to Consider

• Remember to check with your veterinarian before using any tool on your dog. Some dogs may have issues with their nails that should be treated carefully. This is especially true for dogs who have overgrown nails or impacted dew-claws.

• Keep in mind that you never want to grind nails down too far. Dogs have sensitive nerve endings inside of their nails that should never be exposed.

Finally

Using a Dremel for dogs is a great idea for many reasons. If done correctly, Dremel nail grinding is painless, simple, and fast. There are many Dremel nail grinders for sale today, and choosing the best Dremel for dog nails is easier if you do your research. All of the Dremels listed above are highly-rated by consumers and trusted by groomers across the country. You can research more on Dremels to find that it may just be one of the best ways to maintain a dog’s nail health. Dremels are truly one of the best ways to trim a dog’s nails.