Your dog’s sharp nails can cut you and destroy leather, furniture, and put holes in fabrics. But many pet owners do not feel comfortable cutting their pup’s nails with clippers. They can be hard to use on a squirming bundle of energy, and a small slip can cause your fuzzy friend a lot of pain. Beyond that, a visit to the vet or groomer can be inconvenient and expensive.
So what’s the next best option? A dog nail grinder. Since our four-legged friends remain stubbornly silent on the features they need, we have done the homework instead. In the article below, we have reviewed the ten best models available. All-important features such as speed options, port size, battery life, and effectiveness will all be shared along with some other helpful factors.
As a bonus, we have added a buyer’s guide along with some tips on getting the job done quickly and painlessly for both you and your pet. Read below and take the guesswork out of choosing the best option for you.
A Quick Look at the Winners of 2022:
Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
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Best Overall | I-Pure Items Electric Rechargeable |
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Best Value | Damkee Stepless Speed |
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Premium Choice | Dremel Cordless |
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URPOWER Rechargeable |
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Hertzko Electric Painless |
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The 10 Best Dog Nail Grinders:
1. I-Pure Items Dog Nail Grinder – Best Overall
Our overall best pick goes to the I-Pure model, which is an effective, low-noise, low-vibration model that will keep your fuzzy buddy calm and happy. The quiet operation is measured at 50dB and has two speeds, high and low.
This nail grinder charges with a USB cord and comes in either blue or gray. It has an efficient brass shaft motor that will last for years, and uses a diamond bit grinder that reduces the likelihood of overcutting. Not to mention the durable diamond bit, you do not need replacement heads with this model. You will also have three ports sizes to choose from depending on the size of your pup.
This model was upgraded in 2019 with added power to get the job done faster. You will receive a free nail clipper and file with the purchase. You get approximately 25 hours of runtime from a single charge. To top it off, this nail grinder is a comfortable 9.6 ounces.
- Low-noise and low-vibration
- Diamond drum bit
- Durable motor
- Three ports
- Two speeds
- Long runtime
- Your fellow dog lovers will be jealous
2. Damkee Dog Nail Grinder – Best Value
Sometimes, the most affordable option is the right option. This is the case with this little helper. The Damkee is a less expensive, but still effective model that is extremely quiet at 40dB, and has less vibration. You also can adjust your speed with the rotary wheel, making it a step-less speed operation.
Just like the option above, this grinder has three port sizes available and has features such as a durable diamond drum bit that will gently file down your dog’s nails using 100-grit. It runs between 4500-7500 RPM and the USB will give you up to 20 hours of use.
The only downside is the 0.08-pound device is not quite as durable as our number one pick. Also, the rotary speed control is harder to operate while filing your pooch’s nails. Other than that, this is the best dog nail grinder for the money.
- Low-noise, low-vibration
- Diamond drum bit
- Adjustable speed
- Three port sizes
- Long runtime
- Difficult rotary speed adjustment
3. Dremel Cordless Dog Nail Grinder – Premium Choice
Next is a slightly more expensive option that is cordless and runs on a rechargeable battery. The motor totes a strong 6,500 or 13,000 RPMs with two-speed levels. This particular nail grinder uses a standard 60-grit drumhead that will require replacements. Also, though the RPMs are stronger than our options above, the filing will not turn out as smooth as it would with a diamond bit.
As this has a standard drumhead there are no ports available. You simply grind down your dog’s nail one at a time to avoid skipping. Beyond that, you will get a lot of use out of the 1.19-pound durable plastic body and a three-hour continuous-use battery. The ergonomic handle also makes it easy to use when your pooch feels the need to wiggle.
The package includes the grinder, four replacement drumheads, the charging station, and a wrench to easily replace the bits as needed. The device is low-noise and low-vibration as is customary. Overall, though this is a more expensive option, it is not a bad choice for you and your pup.
- Low-noise, low-vibration
- Strong motor
- Durable
- Replacement drumheads
- Ergonomic handle
- More costly
- Filing not as smooth
Other doggie gear you should know about:
4. URPOWER NG-012 Dog Nail Grinder
Moving right along to the number four spot is another diamond drum bit model and USB rechargeable nail grinder. Although this option is a little louder at 60dB, it is still low enough that your pooch can become accustomed to the noise. It also has a low vibration as well to keep fears low.
The motor on this option has a brass shaft for durability and three port options. It is important to note that this model is best used on small to medium breeds, and it only has one speed. You will be able to file down your dog’s nails with the ergonomic handle, and you have three hours of charge time.
This grinder is also an upgraded version and weighs in at a convenient eight ounces. Despite a few drawbacks, this is a decent option for small and medium canines.
- Low-noise, low-vibration
- Diamond drum bit
- Durable motor
- Three ports
- One speed
- Not recommended for large dogs
5. Hertzko HNG-31 Dog Nail Grinders
Right in the middle comes the Hertzko model that features three ports and a diamond drum bit. Recommended for all size dogs, this option is low-noise, but the vibration can be a bit louder than the other options. This can make your pup nervous, so additional time for the dog to become accustomed is necessary.
This little grinder is lighter at 4.8 ounces, and it is not as durable as some of the other options. On the other hand, it features a battery indicator light, and charges via USB in about two hours. You will also get about ten hours of work time from a full battery.
If your pooch can become comfortable with the vibration, you will be able to get a smooth and effective nail job accomplished. This model only has one speed, but it is great for trimming down overgrown claws.
- Low-noise
- Diamond drum bit
- Indicator light
- Quick charge time
- Not as durable
- One speed
- Higher vibration
6. Casfuy N10 Dog Nail Grinder
Our next review is a two-speed nail grinder that has the speed switch located on the base, which can make changing the power level while filing more difficult. This model also uses a diamond drum bit to quickly and safely smooth down your pup’s nails.
You can make use of three ports and will be able to use this on small, medium, and large size breeds. The uniquely designed handle allows you to use it with your left or right hand, although it weighs a slightly heavier 10.4 ounces.
This option features a battery indicator light and will fully charge via USB in two hours. The only drawback is that you only get a three-hour charge time. Also, the 50dB low-noise level is great, but again the vibration is louder making this a less pet-friendly device.
- Diamond drum bit
- Low-noise
- Use with the left or right hand
- Quick charge
- Difficult speed control
- High vibration
- Short charge time
- Heavier
7. Peroom Dog Nail Grinders
This nail grinder is good for all size dogs and weighs a heftier 9.8 ounces. This is a two-speed three-port option that has a 50dB noise level and low vibration. Although this model comes with two diamond drum bits, it is not as effective as some of the other picks we have gone over so far.
You will have a battery indicator light that will let you know when this option is ready for use, but it does take five hours to charge and you will only get four hours of use. Also, the battery must be fully charged for this device to work at top speed.
On the upside, you can conveniently charge the grinder with a USB cord, and it does have a strong and durable motor.
- Low-noise, low-vibration
- Two speed
- Three ports
- Durable
- Heavier
- Not as effective
- Longer charge time
- Shorter use time
- Battery needs to be full for best use
8. INVENHO Nail-Grinder for Dogs
Our next dog nail grinder sports three ports and a diamond drum wheel plus a bonus wheel for additional use. This is a rechargeable USB port model that takes up to eight hours to charge and gives you about four hours of use before it begins to lose power.
This device is advertised to have a low-noise level of 50dB, although it is quite a bit louder than that especially for its eight-ounce weight. The vibration is also strong which makes most dogs pretty nervous. Also, this is a better-suited option for larger dogs, as it is too invasive for your smaller pup’s more delicate nails.
Like many of the other grinders, there is an indicator light that will let you know when the device is ready to use. On the other hand, a big drawback of this model is that it is recommended that you cut your pup’s nails with clippers before grinding. This makes this option better for cosmetic nail appearance.
- Three ports
- Two speeds
- Indicator light
- Not for small dogs
- High noise and vibration level
- Long charge and run time
- Need to clip nails first
9. Rucacio Dog Nail Grinder
The Rucacio has a two-speed 8,000-RPM motor that is good for small, medium, and large size breeds. While this option does have three ports, they are not as easy to use, and the diamond grinder skips when the power level is on high.
Charged via USB, you can make use of the indicator light which will let you know when the device is ready to go after a long eight-plus hour charge time. Though this option is advertised to charge quicker and run longer, you will have about two hours of run time with a full battery,
That said, the 6.4-ounce handle is comfortable to use, but the noise and vibration level is to the point that your pooch may never become comfortable around it. This is especially true if they have any anxiety issues.
- Good motor
- Comfortable handle
- Skips when on high
- High noise and vibration level
- Long charge time
- Short run time
10. Oneisall B95 Dog-Nail Grinders
The final option on our list is the Oneisall dog nail grinder. This two-speed option does not have a lot of power even on high, yet it will still skip on the nail even with low speed. This will cause your pooch to get nervous quickly.
The USB charge only takes about two hours to complete, but you will only have three hours of use. The grinder is meant for all breed sizes although tough nails on bigger breeds are not recommended. Plus, you will have to cut the nails with clippers (regardless of size) before using this option.
The three ports are also small, again making bigger breeds more difficult to work with. On a slightly brighter note, this model uses a durable diamond drum bit, and it has an indicator light. At the same time, it is heavier at 9.9 ounces; it is loud and vibrates, and as mentioned, the two speeds do not live up to their 7,000 and 8,000-RPM respective levels. If you have the option to make use of one of the dog nail grinders above, your pup will be thankful.
- Quick charge time
- Battery indicator light
- Not effective
- Short use time
- Low motor power
- High noise and vibration
- Nails need to be clipped first
- Ineffective ports
Buyer’s Guide
When the time comes to buy a nail grinder, there are a few things you want to consider. First, you want to make sure you are buying the correct size device for your pet. The size of the ports and the speed levels are important for filing down your pup’s nails without causing any undue stress.
There are also different options when it comes to the type of drum bit you want to use. New diamond grinder wheels are the most effective. They are also the most durable and do not need to be replaced nearly as often as tradition bits. You do want to be careful, however, that the power is not too much for smaller dogs with more delicate nails.
Typically, nails should be filed about once every six weeks depending on the rate the nails grow. If you only have one pooch to consider, the charge and run-time are not as important. If you have several dogs, or you are using the device for commercial use, you want to find an option that is going to last quite a while.
Finally, factors such as durability, the handle design, and the location of the speed control can be important to how well you are able to utilize the model. Plus, you want to decide whether a USB option is preferable to a unit that has a charging station.
Important Things To Know About Dog Nail Trimmers
Trimming the nails on your pup is essential. Not only can long nails scratch you, but they can also be painful for your furry friend. That being said, there is one very important aspect of a dog nail grinder not mentioned above: the noise and vibration level. Both factors are going to determine whether or not you can use the device on your pet at all.
With that being said, here are some helpful steps on how to get your pooch accustomed to the nail grinder.
- First: The first thing to do is allow your pet to sniff the grinder while it is off giving them positive reinforcement even if it’s just saying “good boy!”
- Second: The next step is to turn the device on while in the same room as the pup. If they are not too skittish, you can slowly bring the device closer. If they react scared or hostile right away, it is better to turn the unit off. Continue to turn it on while in the same room until the dog becomes accustomed. Give praise as soon as your pup is calm.
- Third: Next, you want to gently touch your pooch with the device while it is on. You can do this exactly as you did in the step above. Let your pal sniff the unit while it is on, as well.
- Fourth: Once you can have the grinder next to the dog while it is running, you will be able to start filing. Just be sure to show the dog the device before you turn it on so you don’t startle them.
Depending on the individual dog’s personality, it can take anywhere from five minutes to a week or more to get them comfortable around the nail grinder. Once you do though, you will be able to comfortably trim down the nail.
To grind the nails, you want to start by selecting the right port size. Always start with the lowest speed and move up as needed. You will want to hold the grinder in one hand and your pet’s paw in the other and use the device at a 45-degree angle.
Start slowly by only holding the device to the nail for three to five seconds at a time while continually talking to your pup. If your dog has clear nails, you should be able to see a red line running vertically down half the nail. You want to stop filing a good distance before you get to the red. Going beyond can be hurtful for the dog and will make them bleed. Once the filing has been done, praise your brave pooch and clean the device.
Two additional things to keep in mind: One, you should always check your manual for additional instructions from the manufacturer. Two, larger breeds with thicker nails may need to have their nails clipped before you file them to a smooth finish. Clipping requires a similar procedure to the filing, but just remember to cut well below the red line.
Conclusion:
After a lot of digging (into the products), chewing (over the info), and scratching (our heads), we have concluded that the I-Pure Items Dog Nail Grinder is the best option available on the market. We have also found the Damkee Pet Nail Grinder to be the best affordable option. Both of these picks are well worth it and will have your pup’s toes looking great in no time.
Does your pooch have painful nails from biting them? Check out this article on non-toxic bitter sprays that can help your dog stop chewing in the most humane way possible.
If this article has helped figure out what you need to look for in a dog nail grinder, then it is a job well done. Our reviews are here to give you the most accurate and unbiased information available.
We truly hope that this article will help you find the best nail grinder for your dog. Best of luck with your search!
Contents
- A Quick Look at the Winners of 2022:
- The 10 Best Dog Nail Grinders:
- 1. I-Pure Items Dog Nail Grinder – Best Overall
- 2. Damkee Dog Nail Grinder – Best Value
- 3. Dremel Cordless Dog Nail Grinder – Premium Choice
- 4. URPOWER NG-012 Dog Nail Grinder
- 5. Hertzko HNG-31 Dog Nail Grinders
- 6. Casfuy N10 Dog Nail Grinder
- 7. Peroom Dog Nail Grinders
- 8. INVENHO Nail-Grinder for Dogs
- 9. Rucacio Dog Nail Grinder
- 10. Oneisall B95 Dog-Nail Grinders
- Buyer’s Guide
- Conclusion: