How to Get a Dog to Let You Cut Their Nails

Cutting a dog's nails, especially a large dog, can be a very difficult process which requires training. It can become more difficult if the dog struggles a lot or even tries to bite you. While the training process may take a while, your dog will eventually allow you to cut its nails with little to no struggling. The most important part is to make sure your dog knows that getting his nails cut is not a punishment. Providing positive reinforcement like treats, petting and simply telling your dog what a good boy he is will help with the process.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog nail clipper
  • Dog treats
  • Assistant (if necessary)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Start cutting their nails at a young age. If you get your puppy used to having his nails trimmed and rewarded afterwards with a treat, he will already be used to the experience and be less likely to bite, cry or be nervous.

    • 2

      Prepare for cutting your older dog's nails by getting the sharp nail cutter and placing extra treats in your pockets.

    • 3

      Place your dog on a raised surface like a table. Have an assistant hold his head, if necessary. The assistant can also help distract him with treats.

    • 4

      Start with the dog's rear feet first. Hold onto the dog's ankle firmly and turn the foot facing up, so you can see the pads. Grip should be firm enough that the dog cannot struggle out of it.

    • 5

      Continue to reinforce the dog's good behavior. If the dog is struggling a lot, sternly say "No" to him. Keep hold of his foot for a minute or so that way he can continue to become more comfortable with it.

    • 6

      Separate his toes with your fingers and push the nail you would like to clip out a little bit so the area is exposed.

    • 7

      Clip only the very tip of his nail to begin with, that way there is no chance of clipping the nail too much, which is painful for the dog. Overall, clip only the lighter part of the nail; avoid the darker part of the nail. Give the dog a treat after you have clipped the first nail.

    • 8

      Continue on with the rest of the dog's nails, rewarding him with petting, giving him a treat after each foot and other positive reinforcement. Have your assistant continue to hold his head and keep his attention during the entire nail clipping.