Another spur (& maybe beak) too long question

[huntersmoon]

Hi,

I've left my rooster's spurs alone mainly due to reading here for a long time the consensus that unless they are causing damage to himself or hens, that it's best to not trim them.

My rooster (4-1/2) has really long spurs. He has adjusted his gait to lift his foot up and over his spur, and I'm fine leaving them as-is as long as that's okay. I have, a few times, used dog manual clippers on the very tips but it only removes 1/4". It doesn't anger him. Mainly just want to check to see if I need to do the hot potato method and reduce the length.

Also I noticed as I uploaded this photo that his top beak seems too long. Should I nip the tip with the dog clippers or just put more brick/rocks in there for them to rub on?

Thanks
Shannon

 

[MysteryChicken]

Hi,

I've left my rooster's spurs alone mainly due to reading here for a long time the consensus that unless they are causing damage to himself or hens, that it's best to not trim them.

My rooster (4-1/2) has really long spurs. He has adjusted his gait to lift his foot up and over his spur, and I'm fine leaving them as-is as long as that's okay. I have, a few times, used dog manual clippers on the very tips but it only removes 1/4". It doesn't anger him. Mainly just want to check to see if I need to do the hot potato method and reduce the length.

Also I noticed as I uploaded this photo that his top beak seems too long. Should I nip the tip with the dog clippers or just put more brick/rocks in there for them to rub on?

View attachment 4234440


Thanks
Shannon

Way too long. Definitely trim them, even if they're not causing problems with the hens. Spurs this long will inhibit him from moving quickly enough to take cover from a potential predator. Another possibility is him get snagged onto something, & can't free himself.

 

[huntersmoon]

Thanks for the quick reply. I can do the hot potato method tonight when he goes to roost

 

[MysteryChicken]

Thanks for the quick reply. I can do the hot potato method tonight when he goes to roost

I just use pliers, & do the twist, & pull.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Beak could use a trim as well. I've used dog nail clippers without issue, you just want to steer clear of the quick in the center of the beak but the clear-ish tip can be safely cut. And then yes having plenty of rocks, bricks or other hard surfaces will give him options to hone it on.