Entirely Dog - Trimming Dog Nails

Trimming Dog Nails - Clipping Them Right

Dogs by nature don't like to have their paws and pads messed with. So it's no surprise that trimming dog nails is a sometimes exasperating experience for both the dog and dog owner. So how do you go about making this necessary chore easier?

The first thing you need to do (short of going to a groomer), is to get your pet used to having you handle his feet. As we said, dogs don't normally like this. Try to make it a pleasant experience for him. Starting young will help, but older dogs can learn to appreciate the occasional pedicure.

Don't break out the nail clippers yet. Instead, touch his feed and pads often. Start small and if you dog is reluctant, don't just grab and hold, but keep trying. Do this as often as possible during the day. As he grows more accustomed to it, you'll be able to hold the feet for longer periods of time. When this happens (it could be a couple of days or it could be months), then it's time to break out the clippers and begin trimming dog nails.

How To Clip Dog Nails

The actual dog nail trimming makes many people nervous and for a very good reason. The last thing you want to do is cut into the quick. This is really quite painful for your dog because the middle of the nail contains nerves and blood vessels. Cut into the quick and it will bleed profusely. And good luck getting your dog to allow this again if this happens.

If you're fortunate and your dog has lighter nails, you can possible hold them by a light and be able to view the quick (which will be like a darker vein) in the middle. But not everyone is able to see this, so clipping dog nails becomes a slow process.

By slow that means clipping just a little bit off the end. Then look at the nail and see if you can see the pink of the quick yet. If not, you may be able to cut a little more. With dark nails you still may not be able to see, so just trim a little and let it go at that. Don't risk going too far. The if the ends seem rough, use a file to smooth them out.

It's also a good idea to have some styptic powder nearby just in case. Unfortunately clipping dog nails is not an exact science, and if you are nervous at all, it might be a good idea to let a groomer do it. Although honestly, we've know many a dog to have their quick cut by groomers as well.

It's also a good idea to know when you should begin cutting dog nails. If he clicks when he walks on the floor, chances are the nails are too long. They should barely touch the floor when he walks so clicking is a pretty good indication. How often this needs to be done depends on your dog and where he lives. Generally once every 4-6 weeks is needed, but sometimes you can go longer. Especially if your dog does a lot of walking on concrete or pavement. This will actually wear down the nails naturally, meaning you can go longer between clips.

If you need a good clipper we recommend one of these three products.