By restyourpaws | July 27, 2025

A Small Trim, a Big Difference: Trimming Toe Fur for Stability

Submitted by Dr. Nikki Defina
A close-up of a person's hands using a small electric clipper to trim the long hair from between a dog's toes. The dog has light-coloured fur on its paws, and the scene demonstrates safe grooming practices for a dog's paw pads.

When our dogs are on smooth floors, long hair between their toes can act like a pair of socks, making it harder for them to get a good grip and increasing the risk of slipping. This is a common issue that can be easily overlooked, yet it significantly impacts your ageing dog’s stability and confidence.

For senior dogs or those with existing mobility issues, keeping the fur around their paws neatly trimmed is a small but impactful grooming step. By removing the excess hair between and around the paw pads, you can dramatically improve traction and provide the extra grip they need on hard, slippery surfaces. This simple change helps them feel much steadier on their feet, reducing the risk of falls and preventing the kind of strain that can exacerbate joint pain or arthritis.

This small grooming task can make a big difference in how secure your dog feels navigating your home. If you are ever unsure how to safely trim the toe fur, a professional groomer or your veterinarian can demonstrate the correct technique. A little bit of attention to this detail contributes immensely to your dog’s comfort and confidence in their retirement.

Categories: General Advice, Grooming & Hygiene
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