How to Grind a Yorkie's Nails

Once only used by professional dog groomers, canine nail grinding tools are gaining popularity with owners of dogs of all breeds. Clipping a Yorkie's delicate nails with traditional clippers can cause painful breaks and cracks. Using a grinding tool is a safe, simple, quick and effective way to properly groom your dog's nails. Because grinding tools are able to achieve a shorter and smoother nail, nail trimmings will also be required less frequently.

Things You'll Need

  • Nail grinder
  • Towel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Turn the grinder on and allow it to run near your Yorkie. This will familiarize your dog with the grinder before attempting to grind the dog's nails. This new tool and the sounds it makes could frighten your dog if not properly introduced.

    • 2

      Position your dog in a way that you can easily access all four paws. Placing the Yorkie on your lap may put the dog at ease, creating a more comfortable grinding experience for both of you.

    • 3

      Place a clean towel under the paw you are grinding. As you grind, the towel will collect the dust that accumulates from the nails. Use this towel to also remove any collected dust from the paws, your hands and the grinder.

    • 4

      Grasp your dog's paw firmly. Use your fingers to separate and isolate one nail. Be sure to establish a firm grasp before beginning the grinding procedure to prevent movement while grinding. Ensure that no fur is close to the nail at the time of grinding to prevent the tool from tangling and pulling the hair.

    • 5

      Turn the grinder on when you're ready to begin, moving the tool back and forth across the tip of the nail until it has been trimmed to a desired length. Use caution to prevent grinding the nail down too far and exposing the quick. Exposure of the quick will cause great pain to the dog and excessive bleeding.

    • 6

      Grind each nail on the paw, repeating steps 3-6 for each paw.