Bringing home a pup can lead to some less-than-desirable moments, like the constant destruction of your favorite items by tiny teeth. However, why do dogs have such an affinity for those pesky emery boards? Is there something more intriguing about filing down their claws than chasing after treats? Indeed!
To better understand your pet’s strange obsession with these odd tools and uncover the benefits behind this funny habit, let’s dive in and discuss five reasons why pups love emery boards so much.
5 Reasons dogs like emery boards
1The act of scratching feels good
Scratching feels good because it releases endorphins. Endorphins are neurotransmitters that function as natural painkillers. They produce a sense of well-being and can even act as mild sedatives. In other words, they make us feel good!
Dogs also have endorphins, so it’s likely that they experience the same sense of relief and pleasure when they scratch. Additionally, scratching can help to relieve itchiness and irritation.
2They enjoy the smell
Emery boards have a strong, distinctive smell, and they pick up the scent of your hands every time you use one. This may be another reason why dogs like them. Dogs have a much keener sense of smell than humans, so the emery board smells even stronger to them, and an object that smells like you is always interesting.
3Some dogs see it as a form of play
Just like any other toy, an emery board could be seen as a form of play for some dogs. The rough surface makes a satisfying noise under their paws, and it moves when they push it. If your dog enjoys playing with you, they may see the emery board as another way to have fun and bond with you.
4They enjoy the interaction with their owner
For some dogs, anything that involves interacting with their owner is a good thing! They may see emery boarding as a way to get attention and spend time with you.
5Association with grooming
Dogs that are frequently groomed with an emery board may come to associate the activity with positive experiences, such as being petted or receiving treats. This could explain why some dogs seem to enjoy emery boarding even if they don’t particularly enjoy the act of scratching.
Is it safe for dogs to play with emery boards?
Scratching at an emery board is harmless. The grit is fine and won't hurt their paw pads, and a few swipes will even smooth the tips of their nails.
Chewing is a different story. A regular emery board is made of cardboard or foam with a layer of glued-on grit, and neither belongs in a dog's stomach. Small pieces usually pass without trouble, but a dog that swallows a whole board or a large chunk can end up with an upset stomach or, in rare cases, a blockage.
Keep a close eye on your dog after they eat part of one, and call your vet if you notice any of these signs:
- Vomiting, especially repeated vomiting
- Not wanting to eat
- Straining to poop, or no poop for more than a day
- A sore, tight belly or unusual restlessness
- Lethargy
Metal and glass nail files don't break apart, but they have sharp edges and points, so they shouldn't be left out as chew toys either.
Turn the habit into easy nail care
If your dog loves scratching an emery board, you can put that to work. A dog scratch board is basically a large emery board fixed to a piece of wood: you hold it at an angle (or lay it flat), ask your dog to scratch, and reward them with a treat. Every scratch files their front nails down a little.
To get started:
- Hold the board flat on the floor and let your dog sniff it. Reward any interest.
- Tap the surface with your fingers so they want to paw at it, and reward the first scratch.
- Add a cue such as "scratch", and keep sessions short: a minute or two a day is plenty.
- Once they've got the idea, tilt the board up slightly so the nail tips do more of the work.
A scratch board won't reach the back nails or the dewclaws, so you'll still need a file or clippers for those. Our guide on how to file your dog's nails instead of clipping them walks you through the rest, and we've compared the best nail files for dogs if you want a tool that's made for the job. If your dog hates having their paws handled, start with these tips on how to trim a dog's nails when they hate it.
When the habit might be a problem
Occasional scratching is nothing to worry about. Pay closer attention if your dog:
- Goes looking for emery boards and chews them up every chance they get
- Also eats other non-food items like paper, socks or plastic
- Scratches or licks their paws so much that the skin looks red or sore
Constant chewing and eating of non-food items can be a sign of boredom, stress or, occasionally, a medical issue, so it's worth mentioning to your vet. More exercise, puzzle toys and plenty of safe things to chew usually help. Dogs that dig and scratch at other surfaces often do it for similar reasons, which we cover in why dogs scratch the carpet.
Conclusion – Let them be!
While the reason why your pup loves emery boards may remain a mystery, it’s certainly nothing to fret about! Just make sure they scratch the board rather than eat it, and keep spare emery boards out of reach.
Allowing your canine buddy to delight in an occasional grooming session with an emery board is simply another way of showing them some extra love and care. So go on – let them have their fun!
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