5 Best Nail Files for Dogs: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide

Designed for pups who dread the nail routine, this file is noise-free, keeping your dog calm and collected. The simple grip ensures pain-free use, making it easy on both you and your furry friend. Crafted from sturdy wood, it’s durable and a breeze to hold.

While it takes a bit longer, the quiet process turns nail care into a chill bonding time. AnimoGoods guarantees satisfaction, so no worries – if it doesn’t vibe with your pup, they’ve got you covered.

We think most pet owners can agree that small dogs are easier to care for in terms of grooming, and this Bona Fide Beauty nail file is simple and can do the trick for tiny pooches. It doesn’t come with a rubber ergonomic handle, but because it’s meant for small dogs, you won’t really need it.

There are inner grooves that are used for buffing and filing and the flat side of the nail filer is meant to shorten the tips. In other words, it’s like getting two tools for the affordable price of one!

Easy To Use

If you’ve read our article on dog nail scratch boards, then you would have seen this one, but it counts as a nail file too! That’s how versatile the WSHWXY nail file for dogs is. If your dog just doesn’t vibe with a scratchboard, then you can take the scratchboard to his nails. 

The groove allows for a firm grip while you gently scrape at the tips of your dog’s nails. The surface is paved with rough grit sandpaper that’s replaceable when it gets dull. 100% satisfaction guarantee these nail files come with. You can get a return or replacement no questions asked.

While the WeinaBingo dog nail file may look delicate, it’s actually made to be strong and is among the most durable of them all! The front side is for filing and polishing while the backside is completely shatterproof, removing the delicacy of some other nail filers.

The WeinaBingo dog nail file has an easy grip and comes with a storage box rather than a sleeve for added durability. It’s essential to keep nail files clean to avoid infection, and this one is extra easy to clean. Just run it under some water and use a mild soap if necessary.

For Big Dogs

Nail grinders are essentially nail files as well, but they’re just automatic. For pawrents who are looking for something more heavy-duty, we have the best nail grinder that comes with a guard. With the Casfuy nail grinder, you can choose from various colors and each one comes with 2 varying speeds to choose from depending on your dog’s nail size and thickness.

The low-noise and low-vibration design definitely helps with more anxious fur babies. There are also customer service representatives always at the ready to answer your questions.

Why Use a Nail File on Your Dog?

One of the biggest reasons for using a nail file on your dog is his anxiety and fear. Many dogs are afraid of the pressure nail clippers give right before the clip, the noise and vibration from a nail grinder, or can’t figure out how to use the nail scratchboard.

 A manual nail file is a great alternative to all of the above. On top of that, there are a few other benefits to using dog nail files such as:

4 Reasons to use a nail file on your dog

• Avoiding splinters - Splintered nails are common with nail clippers, but they are something you won’t face with nail files.
• Having more precision and control - You won’t cut too deep and injure the quick or grind too far with a nail file because of its slow and manual operation.
• Avoiding injury for dark-nailed dogs - You have to go slow with dark nails, so the slow operation of filing will prevent injury.
• Easy regular maintenance - Dog nail files are an excellent tool for regular maintenance so the length of your dog’s nails doesn’t get out of hand.

Types of Nail Files for Dogs

There are various types of dog nail files pawrents should get to know before choosing the right one.

Manual dog nail files resemble the ones humans use and are often made from metal, glass or materials similar to sandpaper. This type is great for smaller breeds and offers more precision and control. 

Rotary grinders, or dog nail grinders, get the job done quickly and smoothly. However, they are more suited to larger breeds or dogs with thicker nails. It’ll also take time for parents and dogs to get the hang of it.

Dog nail filing boards, or scratchboards, are often the suggested alternative to dog nail clippers and grinders. They are typically a wooden board with sandpaper on one side. They are low-effort and easy to use – if your dog learns.

What to Consider When Buying a Nail File for Your Dog

Nail files for dogs aren’t the best if they’re your sole solution for shortening your dog’s nails – especially if you have a big dog with thick nails. Small dogs can get away with using nail files for trimming, but they should generally be used for maintenance and smoothing the tips.

That being said, you should also consider the coarseness of the dog nail file. Some are created with a finer grit while others are rougher. To understand which type to pick, you should examine your dog’s nails first. Remember that it could take some trial and error!

Don’t settle for anything flimsy, because there is a possibility that it could bend and break during vigorous use. Dog nail files worth their salt will be diamond-coated and constructed with professional-grade materials.

Most dog nail files are pretty straightforward to use, but just to add a touch of comfort, we’d suggest looking for ones with an easy grip. There are some models that come with ergonomic rubber handles that take the stress off of your hands and wrists.

Your dog should go on a walk or spend some time outside every day, so can you imagine the stuff they get under their nails? Grooming tools should be kept clean for hygiene reasons and the well-being of your fur baby. The dog nail file you consider should be easy to clean.

The budget is a consideration for most people when purchasing anything, and the same goes for dog nail files. However, the good news is dog nail files are typically pretty affordable. Just make sure the one you pick strikes a balance between affordability and quality.

Does your dog’s nail file come with replaceable parts? Does it come with extra items to keep it safe like a carrying case or sleeve? Having it come with storage options will also help keep it clean.  

How to File Your Dog’s Nails?

So you’ve chosen the ultimate tool, but actually getting to use it on a dog who hates is another story. Don’t worry, we have some tips down below to make the process easier.

Get everything together first, and try to do it subtly so your dog doesn’t sense something is amiss. Get plenty of treats ready, because they’re going to be your best friend during this process.

If your dog starts to get anxious, remember to keep a calm demeanor and try not to alarm him. Use soothing tones and entice your dog with treats.

The next step is to pick the right environment. Choose an area of the house that is away from all distractions or things that could set your dog off. Make sure it is also a place of peace and calm, one where your dog feels comfortable. You should also make sure the area is well-lit so you can see exactly where the quick is when you’re trimming.

Just like any other item you bring into the house for your dog, introduce him to the nail file slowly. Let your dog sniff it, examine it, and make his own judgement about it (but try to sway him in a positive direction with treats). 

You don’t even have to use it on the same day your dog meets the nail file. This way, he won’t immediately associate the tool with one of his most hated activities. Don’t be afraid to take things slowly.

Try to grasp your dog’s paw gently and take the nail file to each nail and gently tap against each one. This is just to get your dog used to the file being around and on his nails. It could take some time before your dog accepts it, so patience is the key. We would also suggest not engaging in any type of filing until your dog feels okay with the tool.

Once you’re confident your dog has accepted the nail file, you can begin the filing. Your dog should be calm during this time and reward him whenever he does a good job. The filing should be quick and light strokes in the same direction.

There is a good chance your dog will not stay still for all 4 paws. If your dog has had enough, it’s okay to give him a break, especially in the beginning stages. It’s okay to start again an hour or two later.

Once you and your dog have become pro nail filers, the next step is just to keep an eye on the nail growth and use the file to keep the nails at an appropriate length. 

Extra Tips

• Keep an eye on the quick and don’t file too close to it
• Angle the file for a smoother finish
• Use short and controlled strokes
• Clean the nail file and store it away properly after each session

Are There Alternative Products for Filing Dog Nails?

Aside from manual nail files, you’d be surprised how many alternative products there are for your dog’s nails. 

Electric or battery-operated, dog nail grinders are designed to grind and shorten your dog’s nails gradually. They have different rotary attachments with varying coarseness and are excellent for dogs with thicker nails – typically big dogs.

However, the vibrations, sound the motor emits, and the heat it creates from friction can be scary for your dog. There is also a learning curve that presents opportunities for mistakes, which can be detrimental to the whole nail grooming process so they must be used with care.

Aside from clippers, you can also find nail scissors, which have a curved blade and are very intuitive since they work like regular scissors. What’s great about these scissors is many of them can come with nail guards that can prevent you from cutting too close to the quick. 

Lastly, which we’ve mentioned a bunch of times are nail scratch boards or emery boards. Your dog does all the work with this tool, but the learning process is on you. They can work just as well as nail files and your dog will know when to stop so it’s unlikely that he will ever injure his quick. One problem with these boards is it can be difficult to get the dew claws. 

Luckily, the cost of dog nail files is pretty affordable. It can range anywhere from $5 to $20 for manual nail files and you can expect around $20 to $40 for electric tools. Remember that this is just an estimate and it’s possible to find premium tools that are outside of the range. 

Filing and clipping methods are often used in tandem with clipping meant to shorten your dog’s nails and filing meant to smooth out the tips. One isn’t better than the other, it really depends on what your dog is okay with and what he needs.

If an electric grinder is suitable for your dog’s nails, then you don’t necessarily need the nail file to get the job done. However, having a nail file on hand is still useful for maintenance trims rather than a full shortening.

Which nail file for dogs is best? There isn’t one definitive answer. It all depends on your dog’s size, nail thickness, and preference, but the best dog nail file to get for your pooch will be one that is crafted from durable materials. It should also be easy to clean, straightforward to use, and comfortable for your dog.

Conclusion

It doesn’t matter if you opt for an automatic or manual tool, the key is finding one your dog accepts and gets the job done. Please prioritize your dog’s safety, comfort, and well-being above all. 

Our best advice is to experiment with different options to figure out which one suits your dog the best. Follow our step-by-step guide to nail trimming and remember to reward your dog and be gentle and patient.