How to Trim Dog Toenails Safely

Trimming your dog's toenails is important to his well-being and should be done at least once a week. If left too long, the nails can become jagged and frayed and can be accidentally ripped out. Long nails can also grow into the pads of the paw and make walking difficult and painful.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog nail clippers
  • Clotting agent (cornstarch)
  • Bowl
  • Lukewarm water
  • Dog treat
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Instructions

    • 1

      Facing your dog's tail end, stand at his shoulder.

    • 2

      Holding the clippers in one hand, firmly take your dog's paw in the other, lifting and bending it at the wrist and place under his stomach. Do not squeeze his paw while in this position.

    • 3

      Cut the tip of the nail off with the clippers. Cut to just above where you see a vein line. If the nail has grown into a hook, safely cut without fear of hitting the quick, which does not extend down that far.

    • 4

      Continue this procedure on all four paws.

    • 5

      Give him a treat and praise him for a job well done.