Does it hurt a dog to cut their whiskers? The answer is NO! It does not hurt dogs at all. Your dog’s whiskers can be cut without causing pain or discomfort. They are simply an extension of the hair follicles that line your dog’s skin, and they help with touch sensitivity and temperature regulation. But you should consult with a vet before having your dog’s whiskers cut.
Signs of Dog Whiskers Pain
Whisker pain is a relatively common problem in cats.
It can occur when the whiskers are accidentally caught or entangled while your pet plays, eats, or grooms.
However, it’s essential to recognize that whisker pain may also be caused by something more serious such as an ear infection or oral tumor (lip cancer).
If you think the ongoing symptoms of your cat‘s facial discomfort seem out of place for normal play behavior and continue for longer than several days, then it would probably be best to take him to see his veterinarian right away.
The Science of Dogs Having Whiskers
Dogs have whiskers, but why?
What could dogs possibly use their vibrissae for that makes the need so much greater than what humans require?
A lot.
Whiskers are a touch sensation similar to human hair and eyebrows; however, they’re not extensions of our skin like hairs on our arms and legs.
Instead, they grow from within the dog’s follicle—a small pocket at the base of each hair shaft responsible for producing new cells as needed to keep growing hair healthy.
Vibrissae are thicker and coarser than regular dog hairs (and ours, too!) and must be tough enough to withstand damage without breaking off during normal wear-and-tear in the environment or while playing with other canines.
The follicles at the base of vibrissae are chock full of nerves that transmit important sensory messages to a pet’s brain that their body is experiencing touch.
Caring for Your Dog’s Whiskers
Now that you know a little more about dog whiskers, it’s probably evident to you now why they’re there.
But what are you supposed to do when your pet’s whiskers seem to be getting in the way?
For some owners, particularly those who show their dogs at canine competitions or exhibitions, a face full of stray facial hair can seem more minor than aesthetically pleasing.
Final Thoughts, Does it hurt a dog to cut their whiskers?
In conclusion, yes, it does hurt a dog to cut its whiskers. But don’t be afraid of that!
It doesn’t hurt them and can help them keep themselves cool in the summer months.
If you want your dog’s face to look good, we recommend that you groom their whiskers every few weeks to keep them looking healthy and symmetrical.
FAQs
What happens when you cut off a dog’s whiskers?
If you cut off a dog’s whiskers, they will likely experience some discomfort and may have a more challenging time sensing their surroundings. Whiskers are essential for dogs because they help them navigate their environment, so cutting them off can disrupt their daily lives.
Should you cut the dog’s whiskers?
No, you should not cut a dog’s whiskers. Whiskers are vital sensory organs that help dogs navigate their environment. Cutting them could impair a dog’s ability to detect obstacles and prey.
Do dogs grow back whiskers?
Dogs do not grow back whiskers. Whiskers are hair found on some animals’ faces and muzzles. They help the animal determine its surroundings, as they are sensitive to air movement.
Why Do Dogs Have Whiskers?
Dogs have whiskers because they help them navigate in the dark and in tight spaces. The whiskers on a dog’s muzzle are especially sensitive and can help the dog determine if there is something in its path that it needs to avoid.
Can you trim dogs’ whiskers above their eyes?
Yes, you can trim a dog’s whiskers above their eyes. You should only do this if they are significantly longer than the rest of their whiskers, as they can help the dog sense their surroundings. If they are not significantly longer than the rest of the whiskers, it is best to leave them alone.
how to avoid cutting dog whiskers
You can do a few things to help avoid cutting your dog’s whiskers. One is to keep their hair trimmed around their face, so the whiskers have less chance to get caught in anything. You can also try to be more aware of your dog’s whiskers when petting them and avoid pulling on them.
What happens when dog whiskers are pulled out?
The whiskers on a dog’s face are essential for sensing their environment. They help the dog understand what objects are close by, and how big they are. When someone pulls out a dog’s whiskers, it can be harrowing for the dog and cause them to become disoriented.
Further Reading
https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/why-do-dogs-have-whiskers
