Every dog owner wants their canine companion to look their best. While frequent grooming is essential, some pet parents go the extra mile to pamper their pooches. Dog grooming has become a hip activity, with doggy fashion items, color trends, and even nail polish gaining popularity. But with any pet grooming trend, you need to ensure that whatever you put on is safe for your dog.
Among the growing list of dog pampering services, nail polish has been a new and eye-catching trend. Dog grooming salons worldwide are offering canine manicure services, and some dog owners may even attempt the DIY route. But the question is: is it safe to use human nail polish on dogs?
Why You Should Not Use Human Nail Polish on Dogs
The quick answer is that human nail polish is not safe for dogs. While it's acceptable for humans to use, the majority of the components in standard nail polishes are toxic to animals. The risks are in the hazardous chemicals found in most nail lacquers, which can result in severe injury if swallowed or absorbed by your dog.
The Dangers of Human Nail Polish for Dogs
Common human nail polish includes several poisonous ingredients that pose a grave risk to your dog's health. Some of the most poisonous chemicals are:
Dibutyl Phthalate: This is usually utilized as a plasticizer added to products where it makes your dog gag, drool, and vomit upon ingestion. Symptoms of poison are far worse for larger intakes.
Toluene: A volatile compound found in many nail polishes, toluene can cause serious health issues in dogs. Not only is it toxic when ingested, but even when inhaled, causing respiratory issues and other conditions.
Formaldehyde: A known carcinogen, formaldehyde is poisonous to canines, especially when absorbed dermally. When a dog is chewing on its nails, it ingests such chemicals, which can lead to poisoning as well as long-term illness.
Other than that, nail polish remover is equally dangerous, as it contains acetone in it, a highly toxic and flammable compound. Physical contact with acetone can cause severe damage to your dog's skin, and ingestion can result in life-threatening conditions such as respiratory failure or even coma.
Safe Alternatives: Dog-Friendly Nail Polishes
Though human nail polish is a no-go for pets, there is some good news. There are pet-safe nail polishes available, and they are specially designed for dogs so that they won't be harmful. They are non-toxic and safe to apply to your dog's paws and are an excellent method of spoiling your pup without stress.
What Makes Dog Nail Polish Different?
Dog nail polishes are formulated to not include all the nasty things that human products include. The formulas are designed to benefit your dog, with agents like aloe vera and vitamin E, to nourish and hydrate your dog's nails. In contrast to human polish, which dries with a rotten smell, scent-free nail polish for dogs has a very slight odor, without upsetting your dog.
The second main difference is the drying time. Normal nail polishes can take longer to dry, but dog polishes are specifically designed to dry quickly so that your dog can return to their normal activities without any irritation.
Types of Dog Nail Polishes Available
The dog nail polish market offers several options, from standard bottles to pen applicators. Pen-type polishes are particularly popular for intricate designs with greater control and are thus best suited for creative dog owners.
Others even come with extra accessories like base coats and top coats. A base coat provides a smooth, light background for the polish to stick to for dogs with dark-colored nails. Top coats give an extra coat of protection, which allows the polish to stay on longer and reduces chipping.
Top 3 Dog-Safe Nail Polishes to Try
In case you're up to adding some color to your dog's nails, below are three top-rated dog-safe nail polishes that you can try:
Dog Fashion Spa Nail Polish
This fast-drying, environmentally friendly polish is available in eight vibrant colors. It is easy to use and contains moisturizing agents that work to hydrate and protect your dog's nails from brittleness and cracking.
Warren London Pawdicure Dog Nail Polish Pen
It is available in metallic and regular colors. This water-based, odorless polish dries in 40 seconds. Its pen-like design ensures that the application is mess-free and precise, and the use and control of the design are simple.
Lesotc Non-Toxic Water-Based Pet Nail Polish Set
This set of six vibrant colors offers a range of shades to match your dog's personality. The water-based formula is non-toxic and can last up to 30 days. Removal is simple—just wipe the polish off with a damp cloth, without nail polish removers.
### How to Apply Dog Nail Polish
Painting your dog's nails might appear daunting, particularly if your dog is not accustomed to remaining stationary for grooming. Here is a step-by-step guide to make the process as easy as possible:
Inspect the Nails
Before applying any polish, check your dog’s nails for any signs of damage or cracks. If there is any physical damage, it’s best to wait until the nails have healed before applying polish.
Trim and Shape the Nails
Trim the Nails
Utilize nail clippers or a nail grinder to trim your dog's nails into a symmetrical shape. Curve the tips so that they do not get caught on anything and chip the polish.
Trim the Fur Around the Paws
Make sure the hair around your dog's paws is trimmed so that it does not get trapped in the polish.
Apply the Base Coat
For dark nails on dogs, apply a base coat so the polish color can be seen. Allow the base coat to dry first.
Apply the Nail Polish
Gently apply the nail polish on your dog's nails. Be patient and gentle, and provide breaks in between if your dog becomes anxious or uncomfortable.
Reward Your Dog
After the polish has dried, reward your dog with praise or a treat. Positive reinforcement will help your dog associate the process with something pleasant.
Conclusion
Dog-safe nail polish is a fun and safe way to add a bit of glam to your pet's appearance. It’s important to remember that human nail polish should never be used on dogs due to the harmful chemicals it contains. Opt instead for specially formulated pet-friendly polishes that will allow you to keep your dog safe while still expressing their personal style. You can give your pup a trendy, colorful look without the health risks if you have a little patience and use the right products.
