6 Tips for cutting your dog’s nails

Video: How to Cut My Pet's Nails - Ask A Vet

Possibly the most intimidating home grooming task is cutting your dog’s nails. It is actually fairly simple and safe, as long as you know what you’re doing. Most owners are worried about clipping a nail a bit too short, but that’s inevitable – it’s going to happen at least once, no matter how careful you are. And don’t think that his nails will wear down on their own. Cutting your dog’s nails is an absolute must!

The quick inside your dog’s nail is very sensitive, and it contains nerves and blood vessels. If you do trim the nail too short it will be painful for your pet and the quick will bleed. The pain will not be unbearable. Your dog will still be able to walk normally, although putting pressure on the paw will be a bit uncomfortable.

The first thing you need to understand is that cutting quick is not going to be the worst thing in the world. It will happen, and you need to accept that. Don’t let the fear of it keep you from cutting your dog’s nails. Having the right set of dog nail clippers can help you avoid some mistakes, but generally, be prepared for this to happen.

Of course, you want to make sure that it happens as few times as possible. As the nail grows, the quick lengthens. As you trim the nail, the quick will recede. Keeping your dog’s nails properly trimmed will make him more comfortable and keep the quick from growing too long.

Video: How to Trim / Clip Puppy Dog's Toenails / Nails / Claws Safely. Bull terrier puppy featured

VIDEO INSTRUCTIONS: How To Cut Dog’s Nails 101 – A Step by Step Guide

6 Tips for Cutting Your Dog’s Nails

Video: How to Trim Your Dog's Nails Without Cutting

1. DogsNaturally Magazine

Yes, it’s true that running and playing outside will shorten your dog’s toenails a bit. Unless he’s running on rough terrain, cement or pavement all the time, it’s not likely that everyday wear will keep his nails short enough. If you don’t trim your dog’s nails regularly, it will cause pain and could lead to health issues.

DogsNaturally Magazine explains the dangers of untrimmed nails and shares some tips for cutting your dog’s nails in this post.

• The first consequence of long toenails is painful feet. When a dog’s toenails contact hard ground, like a sidewalk or your kitchen floor, the hard surface pushes the nail back up into the nail bed. This either puts pressure on all the toe joints or forces the toe to twist to the side. Either way, those toes become very sore, even arthritic. When the slightest touch is painful to your dog, he will fuss when you pick up his paw to cut nails.

2. Love That Pet

If you’re more of a visual learner, check out this article by LoveThatPet.com. There is a great infographic and videos which incorporate many different tips for cutting your dog’s nails. One of the best tips they give is to start with some dog treats. You want your dog to associate nail clipping with happy thoughts, and what could be better than dog treats?

• The first step is to get some treats, make the whole experience positive and don’t feel like you need to be a hero and trim all the nails at once. Start with one, reward and come back later if you or your pet is nervous.

3. Wahl explains everything you need to know about cutting your dog’s nails

Wahl is one of the top makers of professional quality dog grooming products. From clippers to nails trimmers, they make it all. The company’s website also has a very informative blog that covers all topics related to dog grooming. This post discusses clipping your dog’s nails, and it explains why it is so important to start slowly and gradually get your pet comfortable with having his nails clipped.

• As you start to clip, gently press on your dog’s paws to help him become accustomed to the feeling of having his nails clipped. Then, work gradually, shaving down just a thin portion of the nail at first to make sure you don’t reach the quick. Clip one nail, reward your dog with a treat, and stop to give him some positive reinforcement before moving on.

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