Why I Prefer Using a Nail Dremel Over Nail Clippers
Do you get anxious every time you try to trim your dog’s nails with clippers? I sure did. Professional groomers make it seem effortless, like they’re slicing through butter. But when I tried, it felt more like trying to cut through concrete with dental floss.
A few years ago, I decided to switch things up and try a nail dremel instead of clippers. Did it make the job enjoyable? Not quite, but it certainly made the whole process a lot easier. Here’s why I made the change and why I now prefer a nail dremel over traditional nail clippers.
Are Your Dog’s Nails Difficult to Trim?
Trimming your dog’s nails can be a real struggle, and if you find it challenging, you’re not alone. Most dogs dislike it, and many pet owners do too. So how did I make it a bit easier? By swapping out my clippers for a nail dremel. While a nail dremel might not be for everyone, it’s a great option for those who find traditional clippers tough to use.
For this comparison, I looked at Safari nail clippers and the 7300 dremel, available on Amazon.
Why I Prefer a Nail Dremel Over Nail Clippers
My dog Laika is quite large with thick nails, making them hard to clip even with new clippers. Plus, most of her nails are black, so I can’t see the quick (the part with blood vessels), which makes me nervous about cutting too short.
The main reasons I recommend a dremel over clippers are control and confidence. With clippers, I never feel in full control—they can get dull, and the whole process becomes nerve-wracking. I’m also clumsy and lack the confidence to clip quickly, so I worry about making a sudden mistake. With a dremel, I don’t have to fret about these issues.
Ever cut into your dog’s quick? It’s unforgettable for both you and your dog. With a dremel, I can see exactly how much I’m trimming and avoid cutting too short. While nail trimming is never fun, using a dremel makes it much easier for me. It boosts my confidence and calms my dog, making the experience more bearable for both of us.
What is a Nail Dremel?
A nail dremel is a rotary tool that grinds your dog’s nails down, making it a good alternative for dogs who hate traditional clippers. The noise might take some getting used to, though.
I use the 7300 dremel, which is cordless and comes with rechargeable batteries and four replacement drums. It’s lightweight (1.4 pounds) and easy to control. It has two speed settings: high and low. For Laika, who weighs 70 pounds, I use the high speed.
Even after three years, I’ve only had to replace two drums, and it still holds its charge well.
How to Use a Nail Dremel
Using a nail dremel is straightforward. Just tap the grinder lightly onto your dog’s nails. They can get hot with prolonged use, so it’s best to hold it against the nail for just a second or two at a time. One of the things I like most about the dremel is how precise I can be with it, getting those tricky nails to a manageable length.
Switching to a dremel has, without a doubt, made nail trimming manageable and less stressful for both me and Laika.