How to Clip an Unwilling Chihuahua's Nails

If a Chihuahua is not trained to allow nail trimming from an early age, it will usually become very afraid or even aggressive for nail trimming. The ordeal is often so frustrating and frightening for owner and dog alike, that the owner just gives up. But nail trimming is very important for all dogs, because long nails are uncomfortable and sometimes cause injury to the paw or ruin the posture of the paw. And the longer it is put off the worse the ordeal becomes. There are two types of clippers: the guillotine and the scissor or pliers type. Use the style that is most comfortable and gives you the best control.

Things You'll Need

  • Nail clippers for small dogs
  • Bright light
  • Assistant
  • Training treats
  • Muzzle (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1
      Long nails should be brought under control by the veterinarian first.

      Take your Chihuahua to a veterinarian for nail clipping if the nails are extremely long.

      The quick grows with the nail, and so there is a much greater chance of cutting too much when the nails are very long, especially with an unwilling Chihuahua. If the quick bleeds, it's very painful for the dog and your Chihuahua will be persuaded to be even more unwilling. Once the nails are a reasonable length, you can take over the task, teaching the dog to accept nail trimming. If you aren't experienced at trimming a dog's nails, ask the veterinarian to show you how.

    • 2
      A dog can still eat a tiny treat with the right kind of muzzle.

      Muzzle the Chihuahua if it is a biter, or even if it threatens to bite.

      Buy a muzzle that still allows the dog to have a tiny training treat while wearing it, if possible. The pet store staff can help you with the selection. The muzzle must fit snugly or the dog can get it off.

    • 3
      Hold the Chihuahua carefully so it is not injured.

      Ask your assistant to hold the dog firmly but gently so that it cannot wiggle away. The assistant can place the fingers of one hand behind the dog's elbow to prevent the dog from yanking its paw away. Though the dog must be held securely, your assistant still must consider the dog's size so the dog is not injured by the assistant or by its own fighting.

    • 4
      Properly cared for nails allow the dog's paw to work properly.

      Trim just the tiniest bit off the tip of the nail.

      The tiniest bit will be enough if you trim the nails weekly. Weekly trimmings will help the dog to learn to relax for nail trimming, as well as making it less likely that you will cut the quick.