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Last Updated: January 2026
Best Overall: Casfuy Dog Paw Trimmer - Ultra-quiet, rechargeable, perfect for anxious dogs
Best Value: oneisall 2-in-1 Dog Clippers - Waterproof, dual blades, great for beginners
Professional Choice: Wahl Professional ARCO - Salon-quality, durable, multi-purpose
Prices accurate as of January 2026. Available with free UK delivery on Amazon.
Quick Answer: Yes, you should trim your dog's paw hair every 2-4 weeks to prevent slipping, matting, and debris buildup. Use a specialized paw trimmer (never scissors) for safety. The best UK options include the Casfuy Dog Paw Trimmer for beginners and the Wahl ARCO for professional results.
Short answer: Yes, you absolutely should.
While it might seem like a purely cosmetic task, trimming the hair around your dog's paws is actually a simple but important part of their grooming routine. Both veterinarians and professional groomers recommend it for your dog's comfort and health.[1]
Think of the pads on your dog's feet as the soles of their shoes. They need direct contact with the ground for proper traction. When the hair grows too long, it covers the pads, essentially turning them into furry slippers.
On smooth surfaces like hardwood or tile, this can easily lead to slips and slides—which can cause injury.[2]
Beyond the "slip factor," long paw hair is a magnet for dirt, debris, and moisture. In winter, this means ice balls can form between their toes (which is incredibly painful). In summer, it can trap allergens, burrs, or foxtails.[3]
All of this can lead to painful matting, skin irritation, and discomfort for your dog. A quick trim keeps them clean, comfortable, and steady on their feet.[4]
It's a great question, and the answer is yes—but only to a certain extent.
The hair that grows between your dog's paw pads serves a few natural purposes:
Necessary hair: The bit that stays nestled between the pads.
Excess hair: When that hair grows out and starts covering the bottoms of the pads—this is what needs trimming.
The goal isn't to scoop out all the hair and leave the paw bald. It's simply to trim the overgrowth so the paw pads are level with the hair. This ensures your dog keeps their natural protection while being able to get a proper grip on the ground.
Leaving the hair on your dog's paw pads to grow wild isn't just a matter of appearance—it can lead to some real and uncomfortable problems for your furry friend.
This is the most immediate issue. Dogs rely on their paw pads for grip. When hair covers those pads, they lose traction on smooth indoor floors.
It's like trying to walk on ice in socks. This can lead to slips, falls, and potentially serious injuries—especially in older dogs or those with joint issues.
The hair between the paw pads can easily become matted from a combination of friction, moisture, and dirt. These tight knots of hair pull on the delicate skin between their toes, causing constant discomfort and even sores.
Important: Mats aren't just tangled hair—they can be incredibly painful.
Long paw hair acts like a tiny broom, sweeping up everything it comes into contact with:
Dogs regulate their body temperature partly by sweating through their paw pads. If thick hair covers the pads, it interferes with this natural cooling mechanism.[5]
Keeping them trimmed helps your dog stay cool more effectively when the weather heats up.
When it comes to grooming the delicate area around your dog's paws, the right tool makes all the difference for safety and ease. You'll generally find two categories, but one is a clear winner:
We strongly advise against using these for paws. The risk of accidentally nicking the skin or paw pads is just too high, especially if your dog is fidgety.[6]
This is your best and safest bet. These are not the same as the large, noisy clippers used for body grooming. Paw trimmers are specifically designed for this delicate task.
| Product | Noise Level | Battery Life | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Casfuy Dog Paw Trimmer | Ultra-quiet (<50dB) | 3+ hours | Anxious dogs |
| oneisall 2-in-1 | Low noise | 2.5 hours | Beginners |
| Wahl ARCO Professional | Moderate | 5+ hours | Professional use |
The Casfuy Dog Paw Trimmer is our top pick for UK pet owners, offering exceptional value and performance. This trimmer is specifically designed for precision trimming around sensitive areas like paws, face, and ears, making it perfect for nervous dogs.
Pros:
Cons:
Perfect for: First-time users, anxious dogs, regular maintenance trimming, small to medium breeds
The oneisall 2-in-1 offers exceptional versatility with both full-body clipping and precision paw trimming capabilities. This dual-function tool is perfect for UK pet owners who want one device for all their grooming needs, especially during the wet British weather.
Pros:
Cons:
🎯 Perfect for: Budget-conscious owners, multi-pet households, those wanting full grooming capability, outdoor dogs
For those seeking professional-grade quality, the Wahl ARCO is the gold standard used by professional groomers across the UK. While it's an investment, its durability and performance make it worthwhile for serious pet care or grooming businesses.
Pros:
Cons:
Perfect for: Professional groomers, multiple large dogs, frequent use, show dogs, grooming businesses
Challenge: Fast-growing, curly hair that mats easily
UK Weather Impact: Wet conditions worsen matting
Best Tool:Casfuy for precision, Wahl ARCO for thick coats
Frequency: Every 2 weeks in winter, weekly checks
Challenge: Thick undercoat, feathering between toes
UK Weather Impact: Mud and debris collection
Best Tool:oneisall 2-in-1 for versatility
Frequency: Every 3 weeks, more in muddy seasons
Challenge: Silky hair that tangles easily
UK Weather Impact: Rain causes rapid matting
Best Tool:Casfuy for gentle, quiet operation
Frequency: Every 2-3 weeks, daily brushing needed
Breeds: Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Newfoundlands
UK Considerations: These breeds handle British weather well but need regular maintenance to prevent debris buildup. Focus on trimming hair that extends past paw pads.
Breeds: German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Dobermans, most Terriers
UK Considerations: These breeds typically have shorter paw hair but still benefit from occasional trimming, especially during wet British winters when traction is crucial.
Solutions: Start with short 2-minute sessions, use high-value treats, consider a grooming hammock, or book a Professional Dog Groomer in your area.
Solutions: Clean and oil blades, ensure hair is completely dry, brush out tangles first, replace dull blades.
Solutions: Hair will regrow in 2-3 weeks, keep paws clean and dry, apply paw balm if pads are exposed, monitor for sensitivity.
Emergency Action: Apply pressure with clean cloth, use styptic powder if available, contact your vet immediately. UK Emergency Vets: Call your local practice or Vets Now for 24/7 care.
Average UK grooming costs: £25-45 for paw trimming, £40-80 for full groom
The short and emphatic answer is NO.
We strongly advise against ever using scissors to trim the hair on your dog's paws.
While it might seem like a quick and easy solution, it's incredibly risky. The skin between your dog's paw pads is thin, delicate, and webbed. It's very easy to accidentally pull this skin up along with the hair and cut it.
Even a small nick in this area can bleed a lot and is prone to infection.
Dogs can be wiggly and unpredictable. A sudden move at the wrong moment is all it takes for a serious injury to occur.
Professional note: Grooming and veterinary professionals have specialized, blunt-nosed scissors for specific situations, but for at-home use, the danger far outweighs any convenience. Stick to a safety paw trimmer designed specifically for the job.
Trimming your dog's paws at home doesn't have to be a stressful event. With a little patience and the right approach, it can be a quick and calm bonding experience. The key is to make it positive from the start.
Before you even grab your dog, get everything you need in one place:
The goal here is to desensitize your dog to the trimmer. Don't rush this part:
Most important tip: Know when to stop. For the first few sessions, your goal might be to just trim one paw, or even just one section of one paw. End the session before your dog gets stressed or fussy.
Always finish on a positive note with lots of praise and a jackpot treat. This ensures they'll be more willing to do it next time. You can always finish the other paws the next day.
Once you're done, wipe your dog's paws with a cloth to remove any tickly stray hairs. This is also the perfect time to apply a soothing paw balm.
Follow up with a fun game or a good cuddle session to reinforce that grooming is a positive experience.
There's no single magic number, but a good general guideline is to check your dog's paws every 2 to 4 weeks.[7]
The exact frequency really depends on your dog's breed and coat:
High-maintenance breeds: Dogs with continuously growing hair—like Poodles, Doodles, Shih Tzus, and Spaniels—have lots of fur on their feet and will likely need a trim closer to the two-week mark.
Low-maintenance breeds: Short-haired dogs like Beagles or Boxers may only need a light trim once every month or two, if at all.
The best way to know for sure is to simply look. Flip over their paw—if the hair is growing past the paw pads, it's time for a trim.
Making a quick paw check part of your weekly routine is a great habit. It takes just a few seconds and tells you exactly when it's time to pull out the trimmer.
It's a definite possibility, and it's often a great first step in troubleshooting paw licking.
If the licking is caused by irritation, then trimming can absolutely solve the problem.
When the hair between their toes gets long, it can become a magnet for uncomfortable things:
In these cases, your dog is licking to try and soothe the irritation or remove the foreign object. A quick trim removes the source of the problem, and often, the licking stops.
However, if you've trimmed their paws and the obsessive licking continues, it's likely a sign of another issue. Compulsive paw licking can be caused by:
When to see a vet: If the licking persists after trimming, or if you notice redness, swelling, or a bad smell, it's time for a professional evaluation.
While dog paws are naturally tough for walking on different surfaces, they shouldn't be dry, cracked, or rough to the point of discomfort.
If you've noticed your dog's pads feeling more like sandpaper than the durable-yet-flexible pads they should be, you can easily soften them at home.
The key is to use simple, dog-safe ingredients. Coconut oil is one of the most popular and effective natural choices:
Beyond moisturizing, the best way to keep paws healthy naturally is through simple maintenance:
Wipe paws after walks: Use a damp cloth to remove allergens, salt, or chemicals they may have stepped on.
Keep nails trimmed: Overly long nails can change how your dog's foot makes contact with the ground, putting stress on paw pads.
Regular checks: Make a habit of checking their paws for cuts, scrapes, or embedded debris.
Yes, but with the right products. Just like our hands can get dry and cracked, so can your dog's paw pads.
Regular moisturizing can prevent painful cracks and keep their pads supple and healthy. This is especially important in extreme weather—both hot summers and cold, dry winters can be tough on paw pads.
Never use human lotions or creams on your dog's paws. Many contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs if ingested. Always choose products specifically formulated for pets, or stick to safe, natural options like coconut oil.
Caring for your dog's paws is a small task that makes a huge difference in their comfort and health. From keeping their fur trimmed for better traction to soothing their pads after a long walk, you have all the tools you need to keep their feet in top shape.
If you're new to dog grooming, paw trimmers are just one part of a complete grooming toolkit. Check out our comprehensive guide on essential grooming tools for beginner pet owners to build your complete home grooming setup.
By making paw care a regular part of your routine, you're ensuring your dog stays happy, healthy, and steady on their feet for years to come.
Quick Answer: The Casfuy Dog Paw Trimmer is the best overall choice for UK pet owners, offering ultra-quiet operation and rechargeable convenience. For professional results, the Wahl ARCO is unmatched in quality.
Quick Answer: Trim your dog's paw hair every 2-4 weeks. Active outdoor dogs may need trimming every 2 weeks, while indoor dogs can go 3-4 weeks. Check weekly for overgrowth that extends past the paw pads.
No, never use human clippers. Dog paw trimmers are specifically designed for pet hair texture and sensitive paw areas. Human clippers can cause injury, discomfort, and poor results. Always use dedicated pet grooming tools.
Risks include: Slipping on smooth surfaces, matting and painful tangles, debris and bacteria buildup, reduced traction and mobility, potential infections, and difficulty walking on wet surfaces.
High-maintenance breeds: Poodles, Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, Shih Tzus, Yorkshire Terriers, and Maltese. These breeds have fast-growing, thick paw hair that requires regular trimming every 2-3 weeks.
Yes, with proper tools and technique. Use a quality paw trimmer, go slowly, trim only visible hair beyond paw pads, and never cut between toes. If your dog is anxious or aggressive, consult a professional groomer.
Best UK retailers:Amazon UK (widest selection, next-day delivery), Pawda of London (premium grooming tools), Warren London (professional-grade equipment), Pets at Home, and local pet stores.
Key differences: Paw trimmers are smaller, more precise, often cordless, designed for detailed work, and have safety features for sensitive areas. Regular clippers are larger, more powerful, and designed for body grooming rather than delicate paw work.
Price ranges: Budget options: £10-20 (basic functionality), Mid-range: £20-50 (rechargeable, quiet operation), Professional: £50-100+ (salon-quality, durable). The sweet spot for most pet owners is £15-30 for reliable home use.
Professional groomers shave paw pads for several reasons: It provides better traction on slippery surfaces, prevents painful matting between toes, removes trapped debris and allergens, allows for proper inspection of the paw pads for cuts or infections, and creates a cleaner, more hygienic finish. Groomers use professional-grade clippers with narrow blades designed specifically for this delicate area.
Overgrown paw hair is often the culprit. When hair covers your dog's paw pads, they lose the natural grip their pads provide on smooth surfaces like hardwood, laminate, or tile floors. The solution is simple: trim the hair level with the paw pads using a quality paw trimmer. Other causes include overly long nails, dry paw pads, or underlying mobility issues—consult your vet if trimming doesn't help.
Yes, quiet operation is essential for nervous dogs. Many dogs are frightened by loud buzzing sounds, which can cause stress and make grooming difficult. Ultra-quiet trimmers like the Casfuy Dog Paw Trimmer operate at under 50dB—about the volume of a quiet conversation—making them ideal for anxious dogs who need calm, gentle grooming sessions.
They're often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences. "Paw clippers" typically refers to small electric grooming tools designed for paw hair (like those reviewed in this guide). "Nail clippers" are manual or electric tools specifically for trimming nails. Some products marketed as "paw clippers" include both hair trimming and nail grinding functions. For paw hair specifically, look for electric trimmers with narrow blades designed for precision work around sensitive paw pads.
This guide is based on verified sources from UK and international veterinary organisations, grooming professionals, and pet care authorities:
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