How to Restrain a Dog to Have Its Nails Clipped

Trimming a dog's nails is an important part of grooming -- not only for appearance, but also for the health of dog. All of the nails need to be trimmed, including the dew claws, which are located on the back side of the dog's paws. These nails do not touch the ground when a dog walks so they are not naturally worn down, and if not properly clipped, they can grow into the pad of a dog's foot and cause damage. Dogs that are not trained to have their nails clipped will need to be restrained to accomplish the task.

Things You'll Need

  • Muzzle (optional)
  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Talk to your dog in a calm, quiet voice to illustrate that you are not upset with its behavior and that the event of clipping the nails is not stressful. Offer it some treats while you talk, get in position and gather your tools.

    • 2

      Stand behind your dog if it is large, and brace the dog gently between your knees. Place the dog on a table if it is small. Hold a muzzle close to your body while you get behind the dog, then bring the muzzle down from above the dog's head and slip it on. Do not bring the muzzle toward the dog's face from in front or the dog will have time to turn its head. Use the muzzle if there is any question that the dog might bite or nip during the process. Not all dogs will need this extra precaution, but even a dog that does not normally bite might be induced to do so if frightened.

    • 3

      Put one arm across the dog's chest, and wrap the other around its back legs. Turn your dog onto its side by lifting it off its feet and placing it down. This step is only required if your dog will not lay down on its own. Some dogs will lay down immediately after the muzzle is in place. Once the dog is laying down, press your weight slightly onto the middle of its body and reach over it to hold on to a back foot. Trim both back feet while leaning over the dog in this way.

    • 4

      Allow the dog to roll off its side while you trim the front feet. Straddle the dog, but do not put any weight on the dog unless it is attempting to rise. From this position, trim the claws on the front feet.

    • 5

      Praise the dog, and remove the muzzle as soon as you are finished clipping the nails. If the dog is struggling, wait until the dog is calm to release it. Shower the dog with praise and treats.