The Best Dog Nail Grinders

One of the many responsibilities you have as a dog parent is to maintain proper grooming for your pup. Not just for the sake of appearance, but because he needs our help to keep himself healthy and comfortable. Some types of grooming are optional, – he doesn’t need the spa treatment at the groomers every couple weeks. But his paws are one part of his grooming that requires your attention. His nails need to be trimmed down on a regular basis and a grinder can make this less of a struggle. If you’re interested in that (and who wouldn’t be?) then you’ll want to check out our list.

We reviewed dozens of dog nail grinders to identify the best of the best. We looked for the nail grinders that adjust to your dog’s nail size and those that you can take with you wherever you go. We found the dog nail grinders that are fit for professional use and the sets that will let you easily groom your pup’s nails right in your home.

Top Pick
Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder
For a portable nail grinder that will keep your dog’s nails looking sharp, but not feeling it, look no further than the Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder.

From the beginning, we easily identified the Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder as a stand out among its peers for dog nail grinders. With its rechargeable battery and compact portable design, it was the obvious choice for our top pick spot.

The 5 Top-Rated Dog Nail Grinders

Editor's PicksBrandRating
Best Dog Nail Grinder OverallHertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder4.2
Best Durable Dog Nail GrinderDremel 7300-PT 4.8V Pet Nail Grooming Tool4.3
Best Budget Dog Nail GrinderAMIR Pet Nail Grinder4.0
Best Dog Nail Grinder KitI-pure items 2-speed Dog Nail Grinder4.8
Best Professional Dog Nail GrinderCasfuy Dog Nail Grinder Upgraded – Professional4.9

*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change

Best Dog Nail Grinder Overall: Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder

The Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder is a safe and effective way to trim your dog’s nails without running the risk of turning it into a blood bath if you cut too far down. You’ll be able to adjust the size to accommodate your dog, no matter his size. You’ll use the smallest hole for your little dogs, the exposed side for the medium dogs and remove the size guard completely to have unfettered access to the grinding stone that will be needed for your larger dog’s larger nail surface area.

With its USB charging capability and the included cable, you’ll be able to charge it on the go anywhere you have a USB port and take it with you just as easily. It even has a charging light indicator so that you won’t have to guess whether it’s still charging or not, taking the guesswork out of the whole task.

There are over 4,000 customer reviews for this grinder on Amazon, giving it an overall rating of 4.2 stars. That’s certainly enough in the way of supportive numbers to tempt us!

Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder Key Features:

  • USB charging cable included
  • Low battery indicator light
  • 3 size ports

Best Durable Dog Nail Grinder: Dremel 7300-PT 4.8V Pet Nail Grooming Tool

Best Durable Dog Nail Grinder
Dremel 7300-PT 4.8V Pet Nail Grooming Tool
For a dog nail grinder that has a household name with which you may already be familiar, consider the Dremel 7300-PT 4.8V Pet Nail Grooming Tool.

The Dremel 7300-PT 4.8V Pet Nail Grooming Tool has the name that you trust in a pet tool you need. It will offer you a strong, reliable power with its 4.8 volt battery that’s rechargeable with the included base. You’ll receive a full charge after only three hours of charging and a spare battery is also included should you ever need it.

You’ll easily be able to switch the bits for when the time comes to change those sanding bands. And included with the original purchase of this grinder is five sanding bands for your pup’s nails, so you’ll have plenty of back ups for quite some time. They are each a 60 grit band to make sanding fast and gentle. Using its two speeds will also let you customize the speed and intensity for each job. That means you won’t need to use the same speed at the tip of a nail as you will on the part of his nail that’s closest to the quick.

With well over 5,000 customer reviews on Amazon and an overall rating of 4.3 stars, it’s easy to see why it’s an Amazon’s Choice product. If you still have any doubts, you will want to note the warranty and check out the high praise given by those reviews.

Dremel 7300-PT 4.8V Pet Nail Grooming Tool Key Features:

  • 2 rotary speeds
  • Available in kit with extra sanding bands
  • 2-year warranty

Best Budget Dog Nail Grinder: AMIR Pet Nail Grinder

Best Budget Buy
AMIR Pet Nail Grinder
For a dog nail grinder that won’t grind down your budget, try the AMIR Pet Nail Grinder.

The AMIR Pet Nail Grinder has an ergonomic design that will allow you to hold it for as long as you need to in order to get your pup’s paws under control. The motor is a single speed and operated by two AA batteries, making its use and maintaining power easier than you may have ever considered. The size ports allow you to customize it to your dog’s needs and the guard and plastic cover will help prevent the spread of his finely ground nail particles.

The super quiet motor will go a long way in keeping your dog calm while you grind down and smooth out his nails and the diamond bit grinder will accomplish your task quickly, making sure you don’t need to torment your dog for long, if even the quiet sound isn’t enough to calm him.

There are over 500 customer reviews on this grinder at Amazon and with that many reviews you can feel confident that the overall rating of 4.0 stars is an accurate representation of its quality. And the best part of this grinder has to be that you can get it for under $10.

AMIR Pet Nail Grinder Key Features:

  • Quiet Motor; under 60 db
  • 2 AA batteries required (and included)
  • 3 size ports

Best Dog Nail Grinder Kit: I-pure items 2-speed Dog Nail Grinder

Best Dog Nail Grinder Kit
I-pure items 2-speed Dog Nail Grinder
The I-pure items 2-speed Dog Nail Grinder set has all you’ll need to make sure your dog’s nails are cut short safely and efficiently.

The I-pure items 2-speed Dog Nail Grinder will have you set to do all you need for any dog’s nails that you’ll have for the rest of your life, regardless of size and temperament. You’ll get the charging cable, the size ports, file, and the trimmers, but the real star of this set is by far the grinder. Because it’s rechargeable, you’ll be able to take this to your pet and not worry about dragging him to the grinder.

The motor is ultra-quiet at just under 50 decibels, so if noise is your dog’s primary concern, this may be just the solution you need. Should anything go wrong with this grinder set, you need not worry – it has a one year warranty and with it’s 100% money back, satisfaction guarantee, you’re taking very little risk on this purchase.

With one look at the listing and you’ll no longer wonder why this made our top five picks and landed as the best kit available. It has an overall rating of 4.8 stars with well over 250 customer reviews on Amazon.

I-pure items 2-speed Dog Nail Grinder Key Features:

  • Includes clippers, manual file, USB cable, size port attachment and cover
  • 2 rotary speeds
  • USB rechargeable battery

Best Professional Dog Nail Grinder: Casfuy Dog Nail Grinder Upgraded – Professional

Best Professional Dog Nail Grinder
Casfuy Dog Nail Grinder Upgraded – Professional
For a professional grinder that you can get in your own home, take a close look at the Casfuy Dog Nail Grinder Upgraded – Professional.

The Casfuy Dog Nail Grinder Upgraded – Professional is perfect for a dog groomer or if you just want a professional appearance without the groomer costs. The diamond bit grinder is a safe and effective wheel that will let you get the exact nail length that’s best for your dog. You won’t need to adjust what you’ll tolerate in his nail length based on how long it takes you to get the nails groomed.

The high-quality wheel will mean that the motor won’t need to compensate for the dull edges and you’ll notice this by its low vibration. The quieter sound is a big perk, but the low vibration means the wheel won’t overheat as easily, making it less likely to burn your pup if it comes into contact with his paw or, worse comes to worst, the quick of his nails.

In case you wanted to make sure you’ll love this dog nail grinder, taking one look at the reviews should do the trick for reassuring you. There are just over 500 customer reviews on Amazon and they’ve given it an impressive overall rating of 4.9 stars. If you want convinced, that should do it!

Casfuy Dog Nail Grinder Upgraded – Professional Key Features:

  • USB rechargeable (charging cable included)
  • 2 rotary speeds
  • Lifetime replacement guarantee

Who Should Buy a Dog Nail Grinder

There are a few big reasons for you to grab up a dog nail grinder, but easily the most common motivation is how scary it can be to cut your dog’s nails. The process of using sharp clippers on a dog’s nails often involves a bit of blood and whimpers when you misidentify the location of your dog’s nail quick. The identification is tricky for most dog nails, but particularly if the nails aren’t clean, are naturally dark, or if they’ve grown more than you had expected. And you have 20 chances to screw it up and hurt your poor pup. If you do mess it up, there’s no going back, it’s a fully exposed quick and will be tender until it heals. A grinder will give you plenty of warning before you fully expose the quick and that means you’re less likely to have a hurt dog after and a skittish dog next time you take care of those nails. You will have to do it more often than clipping but it’s less risk, and when it comes to your fur baby, the extra time spent may just be worth it to you (and him).

Even if you trim your dog’s nails with an old fashioned standard clipper set, a nail grinder will still prove beneficial to you and your pup. After clipping, just as is the case with yours, the nails are sharp and rigid. Grinding those sharp edges will save you and your dog a lot of trouble. Even if your dog does a good job of filing his own nails down with an active lifestyle, until he does, they’re virtually little razor blades on the end of your dog’s feet. To prevent your fur baby from temporarily becoming a little Edward Scissorhands, you can speed the process with the grinder. This is an especially important step if your dog is an affectionate one. A dog who climbs in your lap or jumps up on you (or even your furniture) can do a lot of damage right after a nail clipping. Purchasing a good grinder will save you and your furniture a lot of damage.

Your dog’s health and well-being is a top priority. Check out our posts on the best pet food delivery services for nutritious, fresh diet options and the best pet insurance companies so you can provide the best veterinary care for your pup.

Best Dog Nail Grinder Overall
Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder
For a portable nail grinder that will keep your dog’s nails looking sharp, but not feeling it, look no further than the Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder.

Important Features to Consider

A grinder for dogs’ nails should do several things well. Here’s what to consider when selecting a dog nail grinder:

  • Variable speeds. A dog’s nails have different needs at different lengths. For example, a faster grind will help you cut through his thick exterior nail more quickly, but when it comes closer to the quick, you’ll need to be more careful. Once you’ve eliminated the extra nail, you’ll need that fine detailing the lower you get. The slower grinding speed will let you get a closer trim and minimize the risk of grinding into the quick of each nail. If you only use the grinder after clipping or if you grind frequently, you may not need the two speeds, but if you are infrequent and use it exclusively, the variable speeds may be worth a look. Keep in mind, also, that the higher speeds can break off a smaller dog’s nails, so plan accordingly.
  • Plugs vs. battery. A corded dog nail trimmer has the disadvantage of being tethered to the wall plug, it’s true but consider the two big selling points of the cord. First, you won’t have any inconsistencies in the power your grinder is giving you with a cord. The batteries will ebb and wane in power while they die, so you’ll find yourself compensating for that with the batteries. Doing so is unpredictable and you may inadvertently hurt your pup. Second, the cord will also save you in batteries. (Unless it’s a rechargeable battery set.) You will still spend some money on the electricity used to charge the grinder but you probably won’t even notice the change in your monthly bill but you will notice spending the money on batteries each time they die.
  • Guards. You won’t have the large nail clippings when you opt for a grinder, it’s true, but you will still have some debris. That debris just happens to be a fine powder that you may not even see. While that mess problem is easily mitigated by doing the grinding in the tub or outside, you will want to consider that an extra-fine powder-like nail dust will become air bound. That floating nail dust is absolutely small enough to breathe in. A guard on the grinder will help prevent you from breathing in your dog’s nails. Consider the uncleanliness for a second and we think you’ll be sold on a guard. You don’t want to snort all the gross things your dog’s been digging into; get the guard or at least wear a face mask.
  • Adjustable size. Your Maltese doesn’t have the same size nail as your Labrador; why would you use the same nail grinder adjustment? An adjustable guard will help you with this for smaller dogs especially, but there are several grinders that have what they’ve named “size ports” that will prevent you from grinding any more of the nail than you want. If you use a grinder on your small dog without the size port, you may accidentally grind down the nail at an inopportune angle and get down to the quick on one side but still have excess nail along the other. It is entirely possible to grind your dog’s nails without the size ports, but it will require closer attention.
  • Quiet spinning. The volume of the grinder may be the only reason your dog is bothered by the grinder at all. He won’t be hurt by the grinding itself, so the only potential for fear is an unfamiliar and loud noise. If you’re making the effort to put your pup at ease by choosing the grinder over the clippers, then you have every reason to make a low volume grinder a priority in the selection process, too. After all, if you have a grinder that still scares your pup, the benefits of it is incredibly decreased.
  • Ergonomic. You may be using this grinder for a while after all is said and done, so you’ll want it to be a comfortable fit in your hand. Some dogs will treat the nail grinding as no big deal, and others will act as if it’s a mini spa treatment. If you’re going to be at the grinding for a while, then you’ll have to consider a handle that’s designed for the long haul. If you have a skittish dog, you may break up the process into several sittings, but if that’s the case then it’s perhaps more important that you have a comfortable fit. The last thing you’ll want to worry about while you’re struggling with your dog is an uncomfortable handle; and even worse is if it slips out of your hand. For these reasons, we strongly recommend an ergonomic and a nonslip handle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a dog nail grinder and what does it do?

A nail grinder for your dog’s nails is a tool that will spin a sandpaper wheeled topper in order to groom your dog’s nails to an appropriate and comfortable length. The head is a rigid and durable stone or metallic material that will, essentially, file down your dog’s nails and allow you to soften the edges as you do so. It’s very similar to the electronic sanding tools you may have in your workshop but smaller so as to better accommodate your dog’s smaller nails. Most often the head is removable and replaceable, so you will be able to maintain a rough surface and make the grinding of your dog’s nails as easy as the first time, every time. With a dog nail grinder, you’ll be able to get the same, consistent result each time you do this with your pup.

Are nail grinders safe for dogs?

If used properly, dog nail grinders are completely safe for your dog. By properly we mean that you’re doing the “press, release; press, release” method. You won’t want to hold the grinder to the nail for more than a second or so each time because it can get away from you faster than you think. This method will help prevent you from reaching the quick without knowing and it will keep your dog’s nails from overheating. Remember that a vibrating machine will often heat after a while of operation and even though a dog’s nails are more resilient than yours and more than any other part of his body, that doesn’t mean he wants a hot iron held to his nail. And should the worse happen and you get to the quick before you realize with a hot grinder, that will hurt him all the more. For a nail grinder to be safe, you will have to take precautions; but if taken, grinders are a sensational fix for your dog’s unruly nail situation.

Are dog nail grinders better than clippers?

If you want an overall, definitive answer for which is better for grooming your dog’s nails, grinder or clippers, unfortunately, there isn’t one. Clippers will be undoubtedly faster and are likely a much cheaper investment. Because of the speed, you will spend less time with your dog in a state of panic, even if he gets hurt as a result. The grinder, however, will present a lower risk for your dog’s discomfort and anxiety. But if he’s still skittish even about the grinder, be aware that it will be a longer time spent for him in a slightly less panicked state. The grinder will also give your dog a finer finish that will prevent any potential damage caused by the cut nails that are still sharp after being cut to a point. The answer to which is better will rely on your priorities and skills. If you are skilled at clipping nails without getting the quick, or if your dog isn’t as bothered by an occasional jolt, then the clippers may work fine. For our recommendation, we think the best of both worlds is probably both the clippers and the grinder and using each for what you’re comfortable with at different lengths and with different dogs.

Can you use a regular Dremel on dog nails?

You absolutely can use a Dremel tool on your dog’s nails. In fact, Dremel even makes a pet-specific grinder tool. The only difference between a regular Dremel tool and a dog grinder is the accessories and if you get the Dremmel pet nail grinder, they’re pretty much the same thing. The benefit here is that it will have a powerful tool that is consistent with its power, comes with a large following, and is a product of well-established company that’s bound to have plenty of support. The electronics inside the Dremmel are fine-tuned over years of manufacturing, and as such will probably last for years and years. Of course, the downside for a Dremmel is that the price tag is just slightly steeper, but to counter that, the bigger names are more likely to have epic sales come sale seasons. Look on Black Friday or holiday weekends and you’re probably going to find a great deal on one.

We should mention that if you do use your Dremmel tool for your dog’s nails, it would be smart to purchase a grinding tool exclusively for your dog’s nails to prevent any contamination if you nick the quick during the grinding process. The last thing you’ll want is to give your dog infections because you use the same grinder on his nails that you used to sand down a wood piece you were working on earlier.

Other Dog Nail Grinders We Reviewed

Best Dog Nail Grinder Overall
Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder
For a portable nail grinder that will keep your dog’s nails looking sharp, but not feeling it, look no further than the Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder.

We looked at 20 other nail grinders for a dog. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best dog nail grinders list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your dog. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.

Battery Operated Dog Nail Grinders

INNOPAW Dog Nail Grinder

INNOPAW Dog Nail Grinder

 

You can easily operate this dog nail grinder anywhere you go by removing the cover, using the correct size for your dog, and turning it on with the touch of a button.

Key Features:

  • 3 size ports
  • Contoured grinder
  • 2 AA batteries

Cost: $25

Oster Gentle Paws Less Stress Dog and Cat Nail Grinder

Oster Gentle Paws Less Stress Dog and Cat Nail Grinder

With a whisper-quiet rotary, you’ll be able to use this grinder on your pet without sending him into a panic.

Key Features:

  • 2 speeds
  • Includes a stone head, fine band, and 2 coarse bands
  • Adjustable safety guard

Cost: $20

Dog Nail Grinding Kits

Enjoy Pet 2 Speed Pet Nail Grinder

Enjoy Pet 2 Speed Pet Nail Grinder

There are three different openings to make sure you’re fitting this grinder to fit your specific pet’s needs.

Key Features:

  • 2 speeds
  • USB charging cable included
  • Includes manual file, trimmers, and grinder

Cost: $20

Pet Republique Dog Nail Clippers and Dog Nail Grinder Series

Pet Republique Dog Nail Clippers and Dog Nail Grinder Series

This rechargeable grinder includes the USB with which you’ll recharge it and a set of trimmers just in case you need those, as well.

Key Features:

  • Quiet motor; under 60 db
  • 3 size ports
  • 1-year warranty

Cost: $20

Zerhunt Dog Nail Clippers, Electric Pet Nail Grinder

Zerhunt Dog Nail Clippers, Electric Pet Nail Grinder

There are three size ports for you to use and trimmers, too, so no matter what the nail situation is with your dog, you’ll be equipped to handle it.

Key Features:

  • Quiet motor; under 60 db
  • Rechargeable via included USB cord
  • Includes file, trimmers, and electric grinder

Cost: $20

Corded Dog Nail Grinders

Conair Pro Pet Quiet Friendly Nail Pedicure Grinder

Conair Pro Pet Quiet Friendly Nail Pedicure Grinder

If you’re looking for power and speed, this dog nail grinder operates with 7,500 rotations of the wheel every minute.

Key Features:

  • Adjustable cover
  • Ergonomic design
  • Includes 4 sander bands and 2 grinding stones

Cost: $20

ConairPRO Dog Professional Nail Grinder

ConairPRO Dog Professional Nail Grinder

With this powerful grinder, you may think it’s more likely to overheat, but this will stay cool for the duration of your dog’s grooming.

Key Features:

  • Adjustable size cover
  • Tool included for changing the head
  • Extra bands and stones included

Cost: $25

Oster Professional Corded Pet Nail Grinder Kit

Oster Professional Corded Pet Nail Grinder Kit

If you can find a grinder with two speeds, you’re ahead of the game, but this particular grinder has a wheel that lets you gradually increase the intensity, allowing you maximum customization.

Key Features:

  • Whisper-quiet motor
  • Auto-stop safety feature
  • Includes 4 grinding bands

Cost: $50

Rechargeable Dog Nail Grinders

AIBORS Dog Nail Grinder

AIBORS Dog Nail Grinder

This dog nail grinder will allow you 15 hours of continuous use before you’ll need to plug it in for another charge. It also comes with a pair of clippers.

Key Features:

  • 4 hours to full charge
  • USB recharging (cable included)
  • 1-year warranty

Cost: $25

Bonve Pet Pet Nail Grinder Electric Paw Trimmer

Bonve Pet Pet Nail Grinder Electric Paw Trimmer

This grinder includes a diamond bit grinder which the manufacturer claims will never dull or need replaced, and that will save you big.

Key Features:

  • Quiet motor; 40 db
  • Easily dissembled for cleaning
  • USB recharging (cable included)

Cost: $20

BOSHEL Dog Nail Grinder

BOSHEL Dog Nail Grinder

This quiet pet nail grinder will allow you to get your dog’s nails to a more comfortable length without the risk of accidentally cutting down too far.

Key Features:

  • USB recharging (cable included)
  • Ergonomic design
  • 3 port sizes

Cost: $25

Bousnic 2-Speed Dog Nail Grinder

Bousnic 2-Speed Dog Nail Grinder

This dog nail grinder includes a battery charge indicator that will take the guesswork out of determining if it has finished charging.

Key Features:

  • 2 rotary speeds
  • USB recharging (cable included)
  • Lifetime warranty

Cost: $25

INVENHO Pet Nail Grinder Electric Paw Trimmer

INVENHO Pet Nail Grinder Electric Paw Trimmer

The two speeds on this dog nail grinder will allow you to speed through the beginning of his nail grinding and slow down to focus when you’re getting closer to the quick of his nails.

Key Features:

  • USB recharging (cable included)
  • Quiet: 40 db
  • 2 size ports

Cost: $25

I-pure items Dog Nail Grinder

I-pure items Dog Nail Grinder

This rechargeable dog nail grinder will work for four full hours of continuous use in between each charge.

Key Features:

  • 1-year guarantee
  • 1 hour to full charge
  • USB recharging (cable included)

Cost: $20

oneisall 2 Speed Powerful Dog Nail Grinder

oneisall 2 Speed Powerful Dog Nail Grinder

The thick and high quality of the diamond bit grinder will make grooming your dog’s nails a breeze.

Key Features:

  • 2 rotation speeds
  • USB recharging (cable included)
  • Lifetime warranty

Cost: $25

Pecute Dog Nail Grinder Rechargeable Electric Pet Nail Trimmer

Pecute Dog Nail Grinder Rechargeable Electric Pet Nail Trimmer

The two speeds on this nail grinder vary from 6,000 rotations per minute to 6,800 rotations per minute (RPM) giving you better control on your task.

Key Features:

  • 2 color options
  • Replacement heads available
  • 1-year warranty

Cost: $20

SHU UFANRO Pet Nail Grinder Electric Dog Nail Trimmer

SHU UFANRO Pet Nail Grinder Electric Dog Nail Trimmer

This pet nail grinder features a convenient cover that will prevent at least some of your dog’s nail dust from becoming airborne.

Key Features:

  • USB recharging (cable included)
  • 3 size ports
  • Bonus grinding wheel included

Cost: $20

URPOWER Rechargeable Pet Nail Grinder

URPOWER Rechargeable Pet Nail Grinder

You can use this nail grinder on any of your dogs with its three size ports that will prevent you from grinding more than you should and keep the process pain-free.

Key Features:

  • 3 hours continuous use for each charge
  • Charging indicator light
  • USB recharging (cable included)

Cost: $20

WWVVPET Pet Nail Grinder

WWVVPET Pet Nail Grinder

The motor in this dog nail grinder is so quiet that it’s virtually that of a whisper – only 35 decibels.

Key Features:

  • Included USB charging cable
  • 2 speeds: 7000/8000 rpm
  • 3 size ports

Cost: $25

YEOTWIN Pet Nail Grinder

YEOTWIN Pet Nail Grinder

Should anything happen to your grinder’s wheel and it becomes dulled or less effective, you will have a backup with this grinder’s included bonus wheel.

Key Features:

  • USB recharging (cable included)
  • 3 size ports
  • 2-year warranty

Cost: $25