How to Cut Long Claws on Dogs

Dogs require nail trimming to prevent ingrown nails, breakage and bleeding. If you hear your dog's nails clicking on the ground when it walks, it's time to trim its nails. If you're hesitant to clip your dog's nails, your veterinarian or dog groomer can initially show you how to clip them. At home, it will help to have a family member assist in the process or to help soothe your dog until the nail trimming is completed.

Things You'll Need

  • Table
  • Scissors-type dog nail trimmer
  • Dog nail file
  • Dog styptic pencil
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put your dog on a table. Lay your dog on its side. Using your left forearm, gently hold your dog's head down.

    • 2

      Push on your dog's pads, which will thrust your dog's nails outwards. Cut your dog's nail at a 45 degree angle, suggests Pet Education.

    • 3

      Trim the nail within 2mm of your dog's nail quick, advises Washington State University. The quick appears as a pinkish color in dogs with white nails. In dogs with black nails, trim the nail in shorter sections until a black dot appears in the center of your dog's nail, recommends Pet Education.

    • 4

      Use a dog nail file if your dog's nail splinters. File your dog's nail, following the curve of the nail. Smoothing the nail will prevent further splitting of the nail, which can become painful for your dog.

    • 5

      Apply a styptic pencil to your dog's nail if you accidentally cut the quick. Use the black portion of the stick to roll on the nail until the bleeding ceases.