Trim Your Dog's Nails Properly: Tips & Tricks

Do your dog's nails sound like they are clickity-clacking on the hardwood floor? That's a clear sign that it's time to clip their nails! Trimming their nails should be done every two weeks or up to six weeks depending on the routine and breed of your dog. One option to manage your dog's nail requirements is to take him to an expert. Another option is to do it yourself.

However, not all of us are confident trimming our dog's nails with a pair of clippers. Most dog parents are scared of puncturing the quick, which is a blood vessel located beneath the nail. But nail-trimming for your dog does not need to be a terrifying experience. Here are four tips and tricks to trim your dog's nails properly in the simplest and most painless way possible.

Get Your Dog Used to It from Young

Dogs that were never or just rarely given nail trims as puppies may have a fear of them. Because of this, it's essential to get your dog used to nail clipping from a young age. Begin by gently massaging your puppy's feet and playing with his toes on a daily basis. Train your puppy to be okay with it by giving him praise and rewards for maintaining his composure. Then, let your puppy sniff the grooming tools once he has grown accustomed to having his paws touched.

When you feel your pup is prepared, begin slowly. Only a small tip of one nail should be clipped. Give him some food treats and carry on to another activity. Then attempt two or three nails in the subsequent session. After the first few sessions, if he appears completely comfortable, proceed to complete trims. Always make sure to reward his positive behavior with plenty of praise and food. Your pup will eventually realize there is nothing to be scared of!

Prepare a Bright Light and Steady Surface

A steady hand and plenty of light are necessary to prevent an unintentional laceration of your dog's quick. The easiest way to avert mishaps is to always be sure you can see properly, particularly if your dog's toenails are black and you need to watch out for the white ring that signals you're getting close to the quick.

Select an Appropriate Nail Trimming Tool           

Any nail-trimming instrument you choose should be an appropriate size—the correct size for your dog’s breed and the proper size for your fingers. Small and miniature dog breeds typically only require scissor-style trimmers. Most scissor clippers include a guard that greatly reduces the likelihood of accidentally clipping the quick.

For pet parents who are scared to trim their dog's nails too short, grinders are another option. You can monitor your progress toward the quick all the time by gradually filing the nail back. Another excellent option for small, medium, ad big dogs is a clipper with a guillotine blade. Using these, you can simply chop off the nail tips by inserting the nail into the hole.

Have a Blood Clotting Agent Ready

Nail-trimming accidents can occur with anyone; even skilled groomers occasionally clip a dog's quick. But you can deal with the problem immediately if you have a blood clotting agent on standby, like styptic powder, to handle the wound and soothe your dog.