Trimming your dog’s nails is an essential part of caring for your pet, but many people find it intimidating. If you’re nervous about accidentally hurting your dog while cutting their nails, you can always take them to the vet or groomer to get the job done. Another great option is using a dog nail grinder at home, which can save you both time and money.
As a former veterinary assistant who has trimmed thousands of dogs’ nails, I know that not all nail grinders are created equal. Some models are designed for professional groomers who are already confident and skilled in using them. For most dog owners, though, extra safety features make all the difference when it comes to using a nail grinder for dogs. That’s why I recommend the Dremel PawControl Deluxe Pet Nail Trimming Kit. The Dremel nail grinder is effective, easy to use, and features a guard that helps protect you and your dog from the tool’s spinning parts.
How it works
Nail grinders work well for most dogs, even those with very thick nails. They’re especially helpful for dogs with black nails where the quick — the vein inside the nail — isn’t visible. Many dogs that get anxious when having their nails trimmed with traditional clippers may also be more comfortable with a grinder.
The Dremel PawControl Kit includes everything you need to safely and easily grind down your dog’s nails, including an optional guard attachment and a variety of sanding bands and discs. The guard acts as a protective barrier around the tool’s spinning parts so nothing can get caught up in them.
Despite my experience grinding dogs’ nails, I preferred using the sanding disc, which the manufacturer recommends for beginners. You insert your dog’s nail through the opening in the clear guard attachment that’s designed to ensure you are grinding the nail at the ideal 45-degree angle.
Our review of the Dremel dog nail grinder
I first tried the Dremel PawControl while testing grinders for my guide to the best dog nail clippers. I tested four different nail-grinding tools on two dogs with different-sized nails.
The Dremel PawControl stands out for several reasons. It’s lightweight, gentle, and quiet, with four speed settings that let you choose what’s most comfortable for you and your dog. Designed with pet owners in mind, it’s easy to use and comes with multiple grinding attachments for flexibility. The guard attachment also provides extra peace of mind so you can focus on the task at hand without worry.
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Dremel is known for its high-quality rotary tools used for cutting, sanding, and engraving, and the PawControl lives up to that reputation. It’s built to last for many years and can even be used for tasks beyond nail grinding, such as sanding and polishing. While the grinding heads will need to be replaced from time to time, the included ones should hold up for several years of use with your dog. The tool is powered by a USB rechargeable lithium-ion battery, so you can use it anywhere and without the hassle of a cord getting in your way while you work.
Like all nail grinders, there’s a definite learning curve. Fortunately, the PawControl comes with an easy-to-follow Quick Start Guide that walks you through every step. It explains which attachments and grinding speeds are best for beginners and offers tips for getting your dog comfortable with the tool.
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Cons to consider
At around $60, the Dremel grinder is about $45 more than our favorite nail clippers. The guard attachment adds an extra layer of safety, but its single opening for inserting your dog’s nail can make maneuvering a bit tricky. If you’re feeling confident in your skills, you can always remove the guard attachment. The only other caveat is that you’ll need to remember to charge it before use.
The bottom line
If you’re in the market for a pet nail grinder, the Dremel PawControl Deluxe Pet Nail Trimming Kit is an excellent option, especially if you’re new to using these tools. It’s effective, gentle, quiet, lightweight, and cordless, and its guard attachments provide unparalleled safety.
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