As the proud owner of a new Jack Russell Terrier, you may be curious if they need their nails cut, how often to cut their nails, and how to complete a nail trimming in the most straightforward fashion possible.
I want to start with the basic question first, and after, I will dive into the details and break it down for you.
Do Jack Russell’s need their nails cut?
I have now been raising my Jack Russell for over a year, and here is what I can tell you on this subject.
Jack Russell Terriers need their nails cut. Jack Russell Terriers will need their nails trimmed every 4-6 weeks unless they get regular wearing on their nails through exercise. It is possible that if your Jack Russell Terrier regularly gets exercise and walks, their nails will naturally file themselves.
That is only the quick and short answer to the question, so I want to make sure I take the time to break this down in-depth and show you how to trim your Jack Russell’s nails.
- Do Jack Russell’s Need Their Nails Cut?
- How to Cut A Jack Russell’s Nails Correctly?
- What Happens If You Do Not Cut Your Dogs Nails?
- Cutting Your Jack Russell’s Nails Is Part of Proper Grooming
Do Jack Russell’s Need Their Nails Cut?
Like I mentioned at the beginning of this post, it is possible that your Jack Russell Terrier gets enough exercise that they will not need their nails trimmed as often.
However, most of us live in areas where climate changes and walking our Jack Russell’s every day or giving them enough time on asphalt may not be enough to keep those nails short and looking fresh.
If this is the case, you are going to need to trim your Jack Russell’s nails yourself to keep them from growing too long.
Long nails for a Jack Russell can be a problem for several reasons.
In case you were not aware yet, a Jack Russell Terrier loves to jump.
They also get very hyper and excited around visitors, especially when they are young.
Long nails for your JR may make it uncomfortable for visitors or even yourself to handle a Jack Russell without being scratched.
Not to mention, we do not want those nails to be digging into our floors, carpet, and even furniture.
The point here is simple.
If you are not able to allow your Jack Russell to file down their nails naturally through exercise, you will need to remain consistent and diligent trimming their nails.
Now the question becomes, how do you trim a Jack Russell Terriers nails correctly, without causing pain and in the most straightforward fashion possible.
I am glad you asked because I want to dive into those details next.
How to Cut A Jack Russell’s Nails Correctly?
Trimming a Jack Russell Terriers nails is relatively easy if you ask me.
I want to start with a quick video on how I trim my Jack Russell’s nails and then we will move into the specifics in the rest of this post.
All you need is a pair of reliable clippers and a few basic rules to keep in mind.
First, never go to short (I will cover this more shortly).
Next, make sure you have good control of your Jack Russell if they get skittish during the process.
Lastly, trim each nail down to the desired length, and you are good to go.
I personally use the Boshel Nail Clippers (Link to Amazon), and they work flawlessly.
They have excellent grips and make a quick, clean, and smooth cut through the nails.
It takes less than 5 minutes most of the time to trim my Jack Russell’s nails.
Seriously, it is easy with these trimmers.
It is also essential to use an area that has excellent lighting when trimming your JR’s nails.
This makes seeing the nerves inside the nail extremely easy, which you always want to avoid trimming into.
Never Go to Cut Your JR’s Nails to Short
A second ago, as mentioned, use great lighting to ensure you never go to short when trimming your Jack Russell’s nails.
Doing so can cause a lot of pain, and the lighting will make it much easier to see what you are working with.
The nails for your JR never need to be too short.
A good clip is good enough.
If you do happen to strike a nerve when trimming your JR’s nails, you will want to wrap the nail at least long enough to stop any blood from dripping.
After the fact, they may be a bit agitated or in discomfort.
The good news is that it will heal, so do not beat yourself over it.
It happens more frequently than you think.
Make It Comfortable Before Beginning to Cut Your Jack Russell’s Nails
Another key to cutting your Jack Russell’s nails like a pro is to ensure you make them comfortable.
You do not want them jerking or even getting agitated during the process if you want it to be as easy as possible.
Get them in a spot where you can have good control over them during the trimming process.
I personally like to do it outdoors, during the day so I can have good lighting.
I also like using a lead on her while I do it just to have that extra control.
Depending on your Jack Russell’s behavior, you may or may not find this necessary to do.
Remain Diligent with Nail Cutting
Another tip I have for you is to remain diligent with trimming your Jack Russell’s nails.
The more you do it, the easier it becomes, and the more your Jack Russell will grow comfortable with the process.
Not to mention, a clean set of nails looks good on a well-maintained and well cared-for Jack Russell.
What Happens If You Do Not Cut Your Dogs Nails?
In all reality, the only thing that happens if you do not cut your Jack Russell’s nails often enough is long unkept nails that may cause discomfort while handling your Jack Russell.
The long nails may also do damage to indoor furnishings.
Lastly, if they nail grow too long, you could run into issues with your Jack Russell, such as them snagging them during exercise or just going about throughout the house.
If this happens, it may break the nail off in a manner that causes a lot of pain or discomfort, so it’s my best advice I can give you just to remain diligent with the nail trimming and cutting right out of the gates.
Cutting Your Jack Russell’s Nails Is Part of Proper Grooming
Cutting and trimming your Jack Russell’s nails is part of learning how to take care of a Jack Russell and just part of the journey.
You should keep up on it, and you should be making your Jack Russell look like the show dog they are capable of.
Luna and I certainly wish you the best of luck with your new Jack Russell’s and hope this guide helped break down how often, how to do it and what you need to know about trimming your Jack Russell’s nails.
Share Your Thoughts and Tips About Effectively Trimming Your Jack Russell’s Nails
Do you have any tips to provide the Terrier Owner Community about trimming your Jack Russell’s nails like a pro?
Do you do anything differently or have any cautions you think need to be shared with everyone reading?
Be sure to share those thoughts, stories, and concerns by dropping a comment below.
As always, Luna and I appreciate you stopping by and reading today, and we will see you again next time.