
Comparing the Top 10 Dog Scratch Mats
Bath time, teeth cleaning and of course, nail trimming, are all essential parts of your dog’s care regimen, but they’re also most pet parents’ worst nightmares.
Now, we have the ultimate solution – the dog scratch pad! We’ve curated the perfect list of top scratch pads for dogs to make sure your next nail trim is infinitely easier.
1AnimoGoods™ Dog Nail Scratch Board With Treat Box

Why We Love It
“The universal design works with any dog breed regardless of size.”
The Scratchboard from AnimoGoods is basically a large dog nail file board that comes with a hidden treat box to make training easier. Parents can entice their pup to engage with the dog nail scratch board in a variety of ways. Because of the treat box, the training time is reduced by a lot.
The universal design works with any dog breed regardless of size and is crafted from replanted forest wood making it eco-friendly and sturdy. There won’t be a need to replace expensive nail drums or dull clippers with this simple and effective solution.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Comes with a hidden treat box
- Comes with replaceable sandpaper
- Durable
Cons
- Some dogs may learn too quickly and get to the treat before their nails are fully trimmed. It’s important to keep rotating high-value treats
2SKUUN Dog Scratch Pad for Nails

Why We Love It
“This product includes a comprehensive guide on using the scratch pad.”
This next option may be a little above the regular budget of a dog nail scratch board, but there is a reason for it – it’s vet-approved! The SKUUN dog scratch pad is a great alternative to other forms of nail trimmers and ensures the nails are trimmed at a perfect 45-degree angle.
The size is suitable for various breeds and the compact design makes the nail scratch pad for dogs easy to store away. Not sure how to train your dog? Don’t worry, SKUUN has you covered with an included guide.
Pros
- Vet-approved
- Comes with a hidden treat box
- Anti-slip corners
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- If dogs scratch hard enough, the dog scratching post may still shift
3LovIntry M-Shaped Dog Scratch Pad

Why We Love It
“Compared to boards with a treat compartment, this board is much more pratical.”
The LovIntry M-shaped dog scratch pad is uniquely shaped and one of a kind. The innovative curvy design ensures a comprehensive trim for all nails, not just the middle two. The dog scratching board is primarily constructed with durable plywood that has rounded corners, which won’t hurt you, your dog, or your floors.
While it doesn’t come with a hidden treat box, the LovIntry scratch pad is still easy to use – just keep some treats in your hands! Our advice is to lean the board against your legs at a 45-degree angle for the best results.
Pros
- Ingenius M-shaped design
- Durable plywood construction
- Rounded corners
- Suitable for all dogs
Cons
- Must be propped up or held
4AnimoGoods Dog Nail File

Why We Love It
“Similar to the third nail file, but this one is more portable.”
This next product is just as innovative as our third option. You can view the AnimoGoods nail file for dogs like a manual version of nail grinders, or a large dog nail file tool. Instead of relying on your dog to do the scratching, it’s up to you. You’d take the file to the nails and it can be done anywhere in any position your dog is comfortable in to make it all stress-free.
It is a newer and not-often-seen design, but there’s no need to worry for first-time buyers because these dog nail filing tools come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee!
Pros
- Small and portable
- Easy to use
- Durable
Cons
- More difficult to use on dew claws
5Rundik Scratch Square for Dogs with Treat Box

Why We Love It
“If you’d like to use a scratch board with treats. This is one of the best to use.”
It comes with a treat box and can stand on its own? Oh, yes! The Rundik scratchboard for dogs is one that seems to have a set-it-and-leave-it design, although training your dog on how to use it is still necessary.
It’s a great alternative to nail grinders and clippers as the rough sandpaper surface will do the job for you while your dog is trying to get at the yummy treats. The dog scratchboard is made from 4 layers of durable bamboo that is treated with a weather-resistant coating that will ensure its longevity.
Pros
- Durable and tough
- Has a hidden treat box
- Angled design
- Can be placed flat
Cons
- May need to be leaned against something heavy to not slide
6ASEWOTOS Dog Scratch Pad

Why We Love It
“No need for tools as the dog nail board comes fully assembled.”
Following in the footsteps of an angled design, the ASEWOTOS dog scratch pad can not only be angled, but adjusted as well! There are three notches at the back for you to find the perfect slant for your pooch. If your dog prefers it flat, you can do that too!
This dog scratchboard is also made with durable and robust materials and comes with a non-slip silicone base to keep it in place. There is no need for tools as the dog nail board comes fully assembled.
Pros
- Comes with 2 pieces of sandpaper
- Adjustable angles
- Strong and tough build
- Easy to store
Cons
- No hidden treat box so training will take a bit longer
7Bamboo Dog Scratch Pad

Why We Love It
“Mounting is very easy with the cute dog bone design on top.”
Maybe your pooch doesn’t need something too elaborate and a regular dog scratching board could work just as well. If so, then we would suggest the one from FL Falatier. It’s also crafted from durable yet pliable bamboo and instead of needing to hold it, the simple scratch pad can be easily wall-mounted (it comes with the screws) for your dog.
The scratch pad for dog nails comes with replaceable sandpaper as well, and is in an extra large size that is suitable for dogs of various sizes. Not to mention, there is a cute dog bone design on it that makes mounting easier.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Can be wall-mounted
- Comes with replaceable sandpaper
- Comes with screws for mounting
Cons
- Wall mounting makes it hard to trim back nails
8Tiatailtoys Foam Padded Dog Scratch Board

Why We Love It
“Some people rather prefer a simple design that is more flexible to their use. This product is perfect for them.”
Sometimes a simple board with sandpaper on it is really all you need, like the option above and this dog nail scratch board from Tiatailtoys. Having a simple board increases its applications. You can lean it on the side of the couch, point a laser pointer on it for easy training, or place treats on it and stick it under a cabinet so your dog will try to paw it out.
The sandpaper does the job, but there’s also added cushioning to make sure your fur baby is never uncomfortable. The sandpaper is attached to a strong bamboo board and the sandpaper comes in different colors just to add some vibrancy to the tool.
Pros
- Foam-padded sandpaper
- Easy to apply
- Bamboo board
- Comes with extra sandpaper
Cons
- Smaller size
9Monciysn Scratch Square

Why We Love It
“Compared to other scratch pads, this one is a bit more advanced.”
Are you looking for an all-in-one slow feeder, dog toy, and scratch mat for dogs? Well, then look no further because the Monciysn dog scratch square is just that! The surface is paved with sandpaper, which hides two treat boxes that can hold enough in both for a meal for some dogs.
Your dog will have fun looking for treats, eating his meals, and also trimming his nails without fear. Using this scratch square can also be a form of mental stimulation and help your dog eat slowly for all those voracious feeders we have out there.
Pros
- Versatile design
- Can help with mental stimulation
- Encourages slow eating
- Trims nails easily with a hidden treat box
Cons
- Not the best choice for large to giant breeds due to the size
10VIROTEE Dog Scratch Pad for Nails

Why We Love It
“Everything the other scratch pads have, but just an alternative option to consider.”
We round out our list with the VIROTEE dog scratch pad. It’s not anything we haven’t seen before, but it is just as good as the other options we presented. You have a choice between medium and large sizes with adjustable notches for different angles.
This emery board for dogs comes with replaceable sandpaper so you won’t have to worry about the original piece wearing down. VIROTEE also thoughtfully included a training guide because they know some fur babies and their pawrents may need a little bit of help.
Pros
- Comes with a training guide
- Extra sandpaper included
- Adjustable angles
- Two sizes
Cons
- Not every dog will like using it
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
We are coming to the end of this post, but before that – let’s answer some of the most frequently asked questions related to dog scratch mats.
What grit sandpaper for dog nails?
For dog nails, the sandpaper grit you want to go for is between 80 to 120. There is a range depending on your dog’s nail hardness, length, and size. We’d suggest starting from the lower end and working your way up until you find the right coarseness.
Conclusion
Who knew there was so much to consider when buying something that looks as simple as a dog nail scratchboard? Carefully assess the size, material, and style that best fits your pooch. Whether you choose to make your own or settle for one of the options we suggested, cleaning and maintenance are key aspects of effective grooming as well.
With a little bit of patience, consistency, and help from your dog’s favorite treats, your new scratch mat will be a very rewarding addition to your grooming arsenal.


