Noah Sinclair
Bearded dragons' nails need to be trimmed when they start feeling or looking sharp, or when their feet are propped up because their nails have begun to curve. The frequency of nail trimming depends on the type of flooring in their enclosure. Abrasive substrates like rough tiles help keep the claws in check, while smoother surfaces like newspaper or reptile carpet may require monthly trimming. Captive beardies may also need more frequent trims as they are less active than their wild counterparts. When cutting the nails, only the sharp point at the tip needs to be removed.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How often to cut nails | Depending on the flooring, every month or more frequently if needed |
| When to cut nails | When the dragon's toes begin to twist to the side, or when the claws begin to curl |
| What to cut | Only the sharp point at the tip of the nail |
| Tools | Cat nail clippers, small animal clippers, or human nail clippers |
| Precautions | Sanitize the clippers before and after use; have styptic powder or a styptic pen on hand in case the dragon's nails are cut too short |
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What You'll Learn
How to know if your bearded dragon's nails need cutting
Bearded dragons' nails can become overgrown if they are not sufficiently worn down through physical activity. Captive bearded dragons are less active than their wild counterparts, so their nails may need trimming.
You can tell that your bearded dragon's nails need cutting when, on a hard surface, its toes begin to twist to the side, or when the claws begin to curl. Another sign is if their nails are scratching you or feel sharp. If their nails have grown too long, your dragon's feet may not be flat on the ground. Instead, their nails may prop their feet up.
If you are unsure whether your bearded dragon's nails need trimming, you can ask your vet for advice.
It is important to only cut the very tip of the nails to avoid drawing blood. Bearded dragons' nails are different from cats' and dogs' nails in this regard. You can use human toenail clippers, but if your dragon is over 24 inches long and has thick claws, you should use pet nail clippers, such as those made for cats or birds.
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What tools to use to cut your bearded dragon's nails
Bearded dragons' nails are circular and tend to be thicker than human nails. Therefore, it is recommended to use pet nail clippers that are designed to provide circular pressure, keeping the pressure even across the nail. You can use the Pecute Nail Clippers with a sharp stainless steel curved head and an LED light to help with visibility, or simple Candure Nail Clippers.
Some people also use cat nail clippers or small animal clippers, or even human nail clippers with caution. If your bearded dragon is over 24 inches long and has very thick claws, you will need to get a specific pair of pet nail clippers, like the kind made for cats or birds.
Before cutting, make sure to sterilize your tools with rubbing alcohol to limit the spread of bacteria. You should also sanitize the clippers after each use and never share them with other pets.
If you are inexperienced with trimming your bearded dragon's nails, only cut the very tip of the nails every so often. It is also important to have something to stop bleeding in case you cut too short, such as styptic powder or styptic pens.
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How to cut your bearded dragon's nails
When to Cut
You will know it's time to cut your bearded dragon's nails when you notice their nails are scratching you, or they look or feel sharp. Another sign is when their feet are not flat on the ground because their nails have curled, propping their feet up. The frequency with which you'll need to cut your dragon's nails will depend on the type of flooring in their enclosure. Abrasive substrates like rough tiles will naturally keep your dragon's claws trimmed. If you're using a smoother flooring type, you'll probably need to cut their nails about once a month or more frequently.
What to Cut With
You can use human toenail clippers for your bearded dragon's nails, especially if they are small. However, if your dragon is over 24 inches long and has thick claws, you'll need to get a specific pair of pet nail clippers, like the kind made for cats or birds. Baby nail clippers or small nail clippers meant for birds can also work well.
How to Cut
Wait until your dragon is calm or asleep. Hold your dragon firmly without squeezing too tight. If your dragon is large or easily agitated, you may want help from another person. One person can hold the dragon while the other trims. Make sure you don't hold the dragon too high in the air while cutting its nails—do it over a table or on the floor so it won't fall if it squirms.
When cutting the nail, just remove the sharp point at the tip. You don't need to remove much. Look for the "'quick" which is the piece of the nail where blood runs, and cut outward from the claw below it. Avoid cutting into the vein. Look at the nail from below in some light, and you will see the darker part where the vein is, leading to the toe. Trim beyond that point, leaving some nail where there is no vein.
After you're done, offer your bearded dragon a treat, like a hornworm, wax worm, or some berries.
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How to make your bearded dragon feel calm during the process
Bearded dragons typically need their nails trimmed three to four times a year. However, the frequency can vary depending on their activity level, the type of surfaces they walk on, and the flooring of their enclosure. To ensure a calm nail-trimming experience for your bearded dragon, consider the following:
Create a Relaxing Environment
Provide a familiar and comfortable setting for the nail-trimming process. Wrapping your dragon gently in a towel or blanket can help restrain their movements while keeping them calm. Ensure their head is exposed, as covering it can simulate darkness and induce relaxation. Additionally, perform the trimming in a well-lit space to clearly see the nail's structure and avoid cutting the quick, the living part of the nail filled with nerves and blood vessels.
Handle with Care
It is important to make your bearded dragon feel secure and comfortable in your hands. Ensure that you are calm and patient throughout the process, as bearded dragons can be sensitive to changes. If your dragon is large or easily agitated, consider having one person hold the dragon gently but firmly, without squeezing too tight, while the other person trims. Avoid holding your dragon too high in the air, and opt for a flat surface or the floor to prevent any injuries in case they squirm.
Positive Reinforcement
Offer your bearded dragon treats after a successful nail trim to create a positive association with the experience. Hornworms, wax worms, and berries are some tasty options to reward and spoil your pet.
Choose the Right Tools
Use reptile-specific nail clippers designed to handle the delicate circular structure of their nails. These clippers provide circular pressure, reducing the risk of injury. Human nail clippers are not recommended due to the risk of applying uneven pressure.
Be Prepared for Accidents
Accidents can happen, and cutting the quick can lead to pain and bleeding. Have styptic powder or a styptic pen on hand to control any bleeding. If bleeding persists, consult a veterinarian.
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How to prevent your bearded dragon's nails from overgrowing
Bearded dragons' nails can overgrow if they are kept in captivity and are less active. This can be prevented by providing more rough surfaces in their enclosure and encouraging physical activity. You can also trim their nails occasionally.
The frequency of nail-cutting depends on the type of flooring in your dragon's enclosure. If you use a smoother surface like newspaper or reptile carpet, you'll need to cut their nails about once a month or even more frequently. If you use a rougher surface like tiles, these will help to keep your dragon's claws at bay, and you won't need to cut them as often.
What to cut their nails with
You can use regular nail clippers, but it is recommended to use small clippers designed for cats or birds. Human nail clippers can also be used with caution. Only cut the very tip of the nail to avoid drawing blood.
How to cut their nails
Wait until your dragon is calm or asleep. Hold your dragon firmly but not too tight, and if it is large or easily agitated, ask someone to help you. One person can hold the dragon while the other trims. Make sure you don't hold the dragon too high up, and do it over a table or on the floor so it won't fall if it squirms.
Aftercare
Once you're done, offer your dragon a treat, like a hornworm, wax worm, or some berries.
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