In a hurry? Here is our top pick:
LuckyTail Claw Grinding Device
An innovative, painless and smooth claw grinding device. Suitable for dogs of all sizes, with three grinding ways, two grinding speeds and quick charging time, this is the best choice for your Shih Tzu.
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As you may or may not know, dogs are very big on their grooming. Maybe not for the same reasons as cats are but, nonetheless, their grooming routines fairly impact their overall health.
So what does that mean?
Literally, it means that you don´t get a free pass if you forget to groom your dog. Their health and happiness are generally way better if you tend to this matter regularly.
This is exactly why our topic today is about the best nail grinder for Shih Tzu dogs. Even though they are small, they still require a lot of maintenance. High maintenance to be exact.
So today, we are bringing you a lot of material including why more and more people recommend quiet nail grinders for Shih Tzu dogs, how to use dog nail grinders, and we will also explain all about what exactly is a nail grinder.
Each and every nail grinder has its pros and cons, as well as the overall discussion about its features. For example, our number one is definitely the Lucky Tail Claw Grinding Device.
Dog owners seem to agree with us as this is also their first choice. With a super silent motor, this grinder will be used with ease with your dog and without any fuss. And of course, when it comes to post-grooming, you won´t have any trouble cleaning this bad boy.
As for the rest of the article, let´s begin with a couple of things you should have in mind when going on a shopping spree for your dog and additional grooming kits.
| Lucky Tail Claw Grinding Device | |
| Check best price |
| Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder |  |
| Check on Amazon |
| URPOWER Rechargeable Grinder |  |
| Check on Amazon |
| Petural Dog Nail Grinder |  |
| Check on Amazon |
| Dremel PawControl Dog Nail Grinder |  |
| Check on Amazon |
| Andis 2-Speed Pet Nail Grinder |  |
| Check on Amazon |
Before you buy: 3 things you should consider when purchasing nail grinders for Shih Tzu´s
Is your dog very active?
When it comes to grooming our dogs, some people have it easier than others.
Groomers will agree with us completely but no matter how big or small a dog is, there are always exceptions to which pups are more active and moving around rather than staying still and enjoying the pedicure and wash up.
Of course, there aren´t any particular rules to this, but some dogs are simply afraid of the high sounds a dryer or a grinder makes and due to this, they act out of fear and start biting.
Others are simply too afraid and their bodies get stiff and lack collaboration with what you have to do.
But why are we even talking about this subject?
Simply because this will affect your purchase. It is not going to be the same whether you buy a super silent trimmer or grinder or if you buy one with a cord.
Silent and cordless grinders are way better when it comes to a more active dog which tends to have its small dramas during the grooming sessions.
It is actually less likely you will end up hurting your dog due to sudden changes in mood or jumping around.
So when it comes to our little balls of fire and energy-buzzed dogs, it is better to invest your money into a grooming kit your dog will not be afraid of or its sounds.
Are you grooming a puppy or an adult dog?
A second important question you should be asking yourself is whether you have to groom an adult dog or a puppy.
Although there might be cases where it won´t matter, when it comes to purchasing a grooming kit, you have to have in mind your limitations.
Puppies are new to this whole getting glammed up once in a month or two, so you might want to think about easing them into all of this.
When it comes to buying a grooming kit with grinders in it, it is better if you also think about the silent kind rather than getting the cheapest one on the market that makes a lot of noise.
Your puppy will likely be jumping around happy to play with you without realizing that you are holding sharp objects such as scissors or a nail grinder which is made to trim their nails.
As you don´t want to hurt the little guy, it is best if you search for some nail grinders suitable for puppies.
When it comes to adult dogs, it is more likely they will already be used to the grooming sessions and the whole grooming kit and so, you will have more range of what you can buy without thinking about getting the most expensive one.
Do you need any accessories?
Additionally, grooming kits may come in pairs with some other accessories, but you might also want to think about whether you will need some extra.
When it comes to buying the best nail grinders for Shih Tzu´s, there is a whole market of noise-canceling grinders that come with some nail clippers and we have included one in our article for you.
We have some experience when it comes to accessories and you might also want to think about some straps to use if your dog is misbehaving during grooming sessions and you are worried you might hurt it by accident.
Circling back to the nail grinders, a muzzle is also a good way to invest money if you have a dog that loves to bite if scared.
All of these questions are good to have in mind before you go shopping, as once you get the entire kit you need, the grooming sessions won´t be so bad or time consuming for you as the owner.
And now, as promised, we bring out our list of the 6 best nail grinders for Shih Tzu´s in 2020.
Scroll down, please.
The 6 best nail grinders for Shih Tzu´s in 2020
1. Lucky Tail Claw Grinding Device
Best features:
- Whisper quiet
- Ultralight vibration
- Vet approved
Overview
This ultra-quiet claw grinding device will offer you the best control you can possibly ask for, all while enjoying your bonding grooming time with your dog. And yes, we can guarantee exactly that, due to its low vibrating at both speeds.
So not only do you get to enjoy this grooming session alongside with your dog, but you know that it will be calm and happy to spend some more time with you.
On the other side, this product is completely safe to use as it has three grinding ways for most of your convenience. If you are already a professional at doing this with your dog, then you will enjoy styling its nails just as nature intended.
It is chargeable via a wire and unlike many on the market its charging time will be down to just an hour while the operating time is at high 4hrs.
Pros
- Vibration-free
- More than one grinding ways
- Two speed modes
Cons
- Tad more expensive
Bottom line
This fast-charging, long-lasting claw grinder offers most control when you use it at both speeds, and all the possible grinding ways. It will help you make your dog´s nails as soft as butter and will help you have full range of control when grooming your dog.
2. Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder
Best features:
- Ultra-quiet motor
- Sharp tools and motor
- Affordable price
Overview
As it is expected, not all dogs will enjoy their entire grooming session, especially if it lasts long. This nail grinder will help you save time with its powerful and fast motor and grinder which comes in 3 sizes.
This feature is particularly helpful if you have to change between them to grind all the nails properly. Of course, if you have more than one dog and in a different size, you won´t have to invest money into buying another grinder.
This nail grinder comes with a USB charger so it is easily portable and charged for the next grooming session. Of course, the makers of this product had one goal in mind, to be quick, precise, and to offer your dog an experience it won´t hate but rather enjoy. Again, some treats always help but nonetheless, it is a very happy experience for the dog.
One of the best features is the super low noise motor which will help your dog remain calm and happy during the whole session. The grinder itself is equipped with the Diamond Bit Grinder which offers a safer solution when it comes to grooming your dog´s nails as it makes sure you don´t clip your nails too short and cause your dog some pain.
Pros
- It comes in 3 different sizes, so you will be able to accommodate different nail size
- Super-quiet nail grinder offering you a perfectly peaceful grooming session
- It can get cleaned fairly easily, which is a delight for every owner
Cons
- Can´t replace the grinding material, you will have to buy a new one.
Bottom line
This nail grinder will offer you a perfect chance for a precise nail grinding session with your dog without drama due to its powerful but low noise motor. Coming in with three different sizes, you won´t just use it for one dog or one-size nail, but you will be able to adjust and accommodate for more. With its affordable price, you won´t have any trouble ordering it online from the store.
3. URPOWER Rechargeable Grinder
Best features:
- Lasts more than 3hrs
- Recharges with the USB
- Removes thin layers of the nail without a problem
Overview
Another one of Amazon´s choices, this easy-to-use grinder offers a quick way to recharge and grind your dog´s nails without any fuss due to its low vibrating noise. Not only this, but your dog won´t even have the impression that its nails are being trimmed, it is a quick grooming session your dog will be a fan of.
Its durability is all about the short period of recharging and a long period of usage. Easily portable, this grinder charges via a USB device.
This nail grinder fits perfectly in your hand and helps you grind your dog´s nail with ease by allowing you to grind your dog´s nail and think about giving it the natural curve by placing it in your hand and trimming it at a 45-degree angle.
Easily affordable and can be ordered online.
Pros
- Durable, efficient and offers efficacy with its Diamond grinder
- Perfect for Shih Tzu´s
- Super silent motor with low vibrations to help ease your dog
Cons
- Hard nails take longer to trim
Bottom line
This easily chargeable grinder offers the possibility to safely grind your dog´s nail and all its layers without disturbing it or scaring it away due to its low vibration and silent motor. Not only will this tool be amazing for your Shih Tzu but you won´t have to worry about recharging it as it doesn´t even take long.
4. Petural Dog Nail Grinder
Best features:
- 2 grinding speeds
- 2 protective caps for your dog´s nails
- low noise and vibration
Overview
It is our knowledge that most pet owners who grind their own dog´s nails worry about grinding them too far or hurting the dog in general during this session. You won´t have to fear with these grinders as your dog´s nails will be protected by two caps placed over the grinder itself controlling how you trim.
Your dog won´t even be disturbed by the sound the grinder makes due to its low vibrating and low sound feature at both speeds at which you can grind away your dog´s nails.
As well as our previous choice, this one also uses a portable USB charging cable and can be fully charged in just a couple of hours. With its modern look, you will be proud to own this Petural Dog nail grinder and show off your newly acquired dog nail grinding skills.
Pros
- This grinder offers protection for your dog´s nails by giving you two protective caps
- Depending on your skill and your dog´s calm nature, you have 2 grinding speeds
- Again, low noise and low vibration important for your grooming session
Cons
- Possible issue for those dogs with harder nails
Bottom line
Depending on your skillset and comfort, you will have the option of grinding your dog´s nails quicker and slower depending on whether you are still trying to learn to do this on your own. With protective caps, you won´t have to worry about your dog´s nails getting ground too far.
5. Dremel PawControl Dog Nail Grinder
Best features:
- More speeds
- Instructions are added
- Grinds and polishes your dog´s nails
Overview
Unlike previous grinding tools, this one comes with an interchangeable grinding head for better effects, polishing, and nail grinding. If you are still just finding yourself in this world of grooming your dog´s nails and beginning to understand how everything is supposed to be done, this is the perfect toolkit for you as it comes with instructions you can use for better usage and learning.
If on the other hand, you feel more comfortable with your skillset, then the two-speed option is right for you as the strong grinding head will offer a quicker option for grooming and you will find yourself finishing quicker and more effectively.
Pros
- This grinder comes with instructions on how you can best use its features
- Comes at two speeds, the second running at double the speed
- Sanding bands for nicer nail polishing
Cons
- Some people complained about the blade being too sharp and trimming too fast
Bottom line
This easily portable nail grinder offers a quick solution to dog nail grinding due to its velocity, durability, and double features of grinding and polishing your dog´s nails. With the portable charger, you will be able to bring this charger with you everywhere you go. Without mentioning its low vibrating noise, your dog´s grooming session will be finished quicker than it started.
6. Andis 2-Speed Pet Nail Grinder
Best features:
- Professional grooming grinder
- 13 accessories in a kit
- Able to polish your dog´s nails
Overview
Our last but not least choice is this nail grinder which offers such a variety of options regarding speed and whether you want to polish or grind your dog´s nails. Although comes at a higher price than most, it certainly gives you a lot of features in return.
It offers you a chance to grind even the thickest of the nails, with a more-than-one sanding wheel to be replaced, you won´t have to worry about wearing it out and being left without your grooming kit.
Sadly, this grinding tool has to be plugged into work, but it overcompensates with all the features and the fact that it can be used on cats as well. So if you are looking for a grinder that will be used for both your dog and your cat, you have hit the bullseye.
This grooming kit will help you grind the nail to perfection as it will also help you smooth out the top of the nail and make it look as natural as always.
Pros
- This grooming nail grinding kit can be used on cats as well
- Can trim even the thickest nails
- Comes with a whole kit of 13 features
Cons
- It is not cordless
Bottom line
This grooming nail grinding kit comes with a whole bag of interesting features and possibilities. It comes with a 13-piece kit that will help you grind your dog´s nails to perfection, sand them and give them a polished look. Although it has to be plugged in, this kit has a multi-use for cats and dogs.
How to use dog nail grinder on your Shih Tzu?
As we mentioned above, using a nail grinder on your dogs can be a different experience with every dog, but the rules are quite simple.
Starting us off it is important to emphasize that not all dog owners have the luck of their dog not reacting badly to the nail grooming sessions. This is exactly why some habituation can come a long way.
Getting your dog used to groom takes some time and a gentle touch. It isn´t as easy as taking it and approaching your dog.
You have to have in mind that dogs tend to react if they get scared. And just like some other animals, dogs get scared of sudden and quick movements. Especially smaller breeds such as the Shih Tzu´s.
1. Familiarization
Take a step-by-step approach letting your dog sniff all of the kits before you start and if you see your dog is having a reaction, stop, take a step back and slowly start again.
The first couple of times might take more time than you might want to invest, but your dog´s well-being comes first. This is why we would suggest doing this when you are not in a time jam. Treats always help.
2. Tactics
When approaching the dog, your ambition to finish all of this quick is going to be your enemy. Take one of your dog´s nails and trim it a little bit. If you notice your dog is getting anxious, stop for a treat and a pat.
The important part is to hold your dog´s toe without pulling or squeezing. This might provoke another reaction of your dog. The key to success in these types of situations is to get a good grip on the grinder but also hold it higher and at a 45-degree angle.
3. Stop for a break
Rushing at this point might backfire completely making your dog fear the whole grooming process, including nail trimming. This is a great opportunity for you to bond with your dog, so these moments are and should be special rather than just rushing the whole process.
Taking smaller breaks to pet your dog and possibly even throw in a nice treat with help your dog love the process and will keep you away from a headache every time you have to groom your dog and think it hates it.
4. Finishing touches
As Shih Tzu´s are pretty unpredictable when it comes to grooming (some attack the groomer or its owner while others enjoy the whole process), it is important to know that your dog might need some of your best tricks to continue post that break.
Shih Tzu´s will generally stay calm during grooming but even a nail trimmer might cause your dog to say ¨enough¨. These finishing touches include you trimming the nail in such a manner that it isn´t too close to the end of the nail or too high up, causing yourself to have to repeat the whole process quicker than needed.
Since all grinders should inspire durability and multiple speeds, you can use the features as per every situation. If your dog is comfortable with what you are doing, you can take your time to grind the nail to perfection. Why not, right?! The good news is most grinders now have safety modes and you won´t have to worry about it getting jammed up if your Shih Tzu´s hair gets wrapped inside, it will automatically stop and not pull your dog´s hair in.
The good news is, your dog will end up having fresh and gentle nails once you are done.
How we chose these products?
Our choices formed a part of a deep dive into the internet and previous experiences from experts that know their way around a good nail grinder.
All of the groomers we have contacted to get you the best information on the market said one thing and gave one advice: Super quiet grinders are the way to go. So we followed that advice by giving you products we know have been confirmed by experts.
Of course, our local vets have given us a short introduction to why dogs behave in a certain manner when afraid, so we understand these products can cause your dog anxiety if forced upon a dog who doesn´t stand grooming, especially nail grinding.
On the other side, we chose all these products based on our own experience. Even though we understand some dogs will panic at the sound of a grinder, there are genuinely good and calm ways you can ease your dog into loving the grooming sessions with you alongside a lot of bonding, pets, treats, and kisses.
FAQ
Is it better to cut or grind Shih Tzu’s nails?
When it comes to which is better, they both have their own pros and cons. regarding grinders, their pros are simple: the nails will simply grow healthier, you might have more control over a grinder, and there isn´t a lot of noise, and the nails will not crack. On the other side, these benefits come from nail grinding taking generally more time than you might want. Additionally, since this product is one that uses electric energy or batteries, they might break and simply stop working, so you will have to replace them.
On the other side, cutting your dog´s nails might be easier and faster if you are experienced or your dog has lighter nails and you know what the limits are. And of course, the time-consuming nail grinding is definitely a negative versus with clippers you are done faster.
How do you grind overgrown dog nails?
The truth is there isn´t a much different approach. The important part is that you grind part by part and not go for the entire nail. There is also a question about length so make sure you are not overdoing it or hurting your dog. Its safety is number one.
Do dogs feel pain when you grind their nails?
Some dogs are simply more sensitive than others. Of course, let´s not forget some dogs are simply drama queens and love to fake being hurt for extra attention and pets.
Although some dogs might have more sensitive nails, there might also be an issue of already having damaged or cracked nails. Although dogs shouldn´t feel pain when you grind their nails it is certainly possible, which is why grinding their nails is a process that shouldn´t be rushed.
Are nail grinders safe for dogs?
Nail grinders for dogs are actually safer than clippers due to the time it takes for you to trim the nails as well as the control if offers, whereas with clippers you might even cut off the nail too short and cause your dog´s nail to start bleeding.
What are dog nail grinders and how do they work?
Dog nail grinders are grooming tools you can use to shorten your dog´s overgrown nails by trimming a part by part of the nail down to a level that is acceptable and suitable for your dog. They work by reducing the length slowly and safely.
How often should you grind your dog’s nails?
It is actually advised that you shouldn´t grind your dog´s nails too often. Once every month and a half/ two months is completely okay for the length of the nail to grow.
Is a nail grinder the right option for my dog?
As we discussed above, nail grinders may be better options for a calmer breed and older dogs that don´t get quite so anxious due to noise.
Of course, the more active dogs will not like to wait for you to finish grinding their nails before they get up and go to play on the other side. So before you invest in your dog´s grooming kit, think about the personality of your dog.
What to do if I trim my dogs nail too far?
This is usually a bigger concern for people who use clippers to cut their dog´s nails, but nonetheless, if you experience this type of a situation, you have the option of trying to stop the bleeding if it isn´t too bad, or simply and safely take your dog to the vet as they are quite familiar with what to do in these situations.
At what angle should you grind your dog’s nail?
It is best advised to trim and grind your dog´s nail at a 45degree angle. This degree angle is crucial for the nail to have the same natural look it did before trimming it.
Can you use a nail file instead of a nail grinder?
You can, but have in mind that this will take even more time than the grinder and it is unlikely that your dog will let you do this for such a period. Nail files are better tools for finishing touches rather than just using it to trim your dog´s nail.
Conclusion
After this article, you will have the full knowledge of our choices of the best nail grinders for Shih Tzu dogs. Not only this, but we have answered a wide range of questions that might be of great help to you during grooming times.
And now, it is up to you to tell us your opinion. What is your experience with nail grinders and do you have any advice on which one or ones we have forgotten to put in the article?
Let us know in the comments below as we love to read them and use them to improve our whole process and knowledge. Looking forward to hearing from you.
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