Proper paw and nail care is an essential part of your Havanese’s grooming routine. Since Havanese are a small breed with an active and curious nature, their paws and nails require regular attention to prevent discomfort, injury, and health issues. By maintaining their paw pads, trimming their nails, and checking for any signs of irritation or infection, you’ll ensure your furry companion stays comfortable and healthy.

This guide offers a detailed overview of Havanese paw and nail care, including best practices, tools to use, and how to identify potential problems.

Why Paw and Nail Care Is Important

1. Comfort and Mobility

• Overgrown nails can cause pain and difficulty walking, leading to joint issues over time.
• Healthy paw pads prevent slipping and provide stability during movement.

2. Preventing Injuries

• Long nails can split, crack, or break, causing pain and potential infections.
• Rough or dry paw pads are prone to cracking and injuries, especially in extreme weather conditions.

3. Spotting Health Problems Early

Regular paw inspections help identify issues like cuts, foreign objects, infections, or irritants that could harm your dog.

How Often Should You Care for Your Havanese’s Paws and Nails?

1. Nail Trimming:

• Trim your Havanese’s nails every 3–4 weeks, or as needed. If you hear their nails clicking on the floor, it’s time for a trim.

2. Paw Pad Maintenance:

• Inspect and clean their paws weekly to remove dirt, debris, and any foreign objects.
• Moisturize their pads as needed, especially during cold, dry months or after exposure to hot pavement.

Step-by-Step Guide to Havanese Nail Care

1. Gather the Right Tools

• Dog Nail Clippers or Grinder: Choose a high-quality clipper or an electric grinder designed for small breeds.
• Styptic Powder: To stop bleeding in case you accidentally cut the quick.
• Treats: To reward and reassure your dog during the process.

2. Prepare Your Dog

• Choose a quiet, comfortable space with good lighting.
• Handle your Havanese’s paws gently to get them accustomed to the sensation. Offering treats and positive reinforcement helps create a relaxed environment.

3. Inspect the Nails

• Look for the quick, the pink area inside the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves. For dogs with dark nails, trim cautiously in small increments to avoid hitting the quick.

4. Trim the Nails

• Use clippers to cut the nail just below the quick. If unsure, trim a small amount at a time.
• If using a grinder, gently file the nail down in short bursts to avoid overheating.
• Smooth the edges with a file or grinder for a clean finish.

5. Address Bleeding (if needed)

• If you accidentally cut the quick, remain calm and apply styptic powder to the area to stop the bleeding.

Step-by-Step Guide to Havanese Paw Care

1. Inspect the Paw Pads

• Check for cuts, redness, swelling, or foreign objects like pebbles, thorns, or splinters.
• Ensure there’s no sign of infection, such as excessive licking, odor, or discharge.

2. Clean the Paws

• Use a damp cloth or pet-safe wipe to remove dirt, mud, or debris.
• For deeper cleaning, rinse the paws with lukewarm water and pat dry with a towel.

3. Moisturize the Pads

• Apply a dog-safe paw balm to keep the pads soft and supple. Avoid human lotions, as they can be toxic to dogs.

4. Trim the Hair Between Pads

• Use blunt-tipped scissors or a small grooming clipper to trim excess hair between the paw pads. This reduces matting and prevents debris from getting stuck.

5. Massage the Paws

• Gently massage the pads and toes to improve circulation and relax your dog.

Paw and Nail Care Tips

For Paw Pads:

1. Seasonal Care:
   • In winter, protect paws from salt and ice by using dog booties or applying paw balm before walks.
   • In summer, avoid hot pavement that can burn their pads.
2. Check After Walks:
   • Inspect your Havanese’s paws for thorns, burrs, or other debris after outdoor activities.
3. Keep the Paws Dry:
   • Always dry their paws after exposure to water to prevent fungal infections.

For Nails:

1. Start Early:
   • Begin trimming nails during puppyhood to help your Havanese get used to the process.
2. Go Slow:
   • Trim a little at a time, especially if your dog is nervous.
3. Reward Generously:
   • Offer treats and praise throughout the process to create a positive association with nail trimming.
4. Consider Professional Help:
   • If you’re uncomfortable trimming your Havanese’s nails, seek assistance from a groomer or veterinarian.

Signs of Paw or Nail Problems

Watch for these signs that may indicate an issue requiring veterinary attention:

• Swollen Paws or Pads: Could indicate an infection or injury.
• Limping or Reluctance to Walk: May be caused by pain from cracked pads, overgrown nails, or foreign objects.
• Excessive Licking or Chewing: Often a sign of irritation, allergies, or infection.
• Discolored Nails or Pads: Could point to fungal or bacterial infections.

Recommended Products for Havanese Paw and Nail Care

1. Nail Clippers or Grinders:

• Safari Professional Nail Trimmer: A reliable, easy-to-use clipper for small breeds.
• Dremel 7300-PT Dog Nail Grinder: A quiet, cordless grinder for precise nail trimming.

2. Paw Balms:

• Musher’s Secret Paw Wax: Protects paws from harsh weather and rough surfaces.
• Burts Bees Paw & Nose Lotion: A gentle, all-natural moisturizer for dry paw pads.

3. Pet-Safe Wipes:

• Earth Rated Dog Wipes: Gentle, hypoallergenic wipes for cleaning paws after walks.

Summary

Paw and nail care are vital to your Havanese’s comfort and health. Regularly trimming their nails, cleaning their paws, and moisturizing their pads prevent discomfort and reduce the risk of injury or infection. By incorporating these routines into their grooming schedule and using the right tools, you’ll keep your Havanese happy, healthy, and ready for all their adventures.

Sources:
Havanese Club of America, https://www.havanese.org
American Kennel Club (AKC), https://www.akc.org
PetMD, https://www.petmd.com
Merck Veterinary Manual, https://www.merckvetmanual.com
Canine Health Foundation, https://www.caninehealthfoundation.org