How to Safely Clip Your Dog's Toenails

An important part of maintaining your dog's quality of life is the regular clipping of its toenails. Without proper grooming of its nails, your dog is at risk for painfully overgrown nails or even an infection. Other potential problems associated with a dog's overgrown nails are the possibility of inadvertently scratching someone or causing damage to your home and furniture. Some pet owners dislike cutting their dogs' nails because the animals become wiggly or nervous, but the end result of having a healthy, happy pet is worth the time and energy invested.

Things You'll Need

  • Styptic powder
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your dog on a sturdy table. If your dog is large, another person can stand in front of it to hold it steady or distract it while you're clipping its nails. If your dog is moving too much, it may be necessary to hold your dog down while clipping its nails. Get the dog to lie down on its side, and use your right arm and upper body strength to keep the dog's movement to a minimum.

    • 2
      Standard toenail clippers for dogs are available at pet supply stores.

      Hold one of the dog's paws in your hand so you can clearly see the nails. With your other hand, place the clippers at the end of the nail you will be cutting. In general, just clip the rounded head of the nail, or approximately 1/8 inch, to avoid cutting into the quick, which is painful and will cause bleeding.

    • 3
      Treats help your dog associate having its nails cut with a positive rather than a fearful experience.

      Firmly squeeze the handles of the clippers together to cut the nail. Afterward, give your dog one treat as a reward. Giving your dog a treat after successfully cutting each nail is a positive reinforcement that can eventually make this grooming process easier.

    • 4
      Your dog will be happier with nails that are regularly clipped

      Dab styptic powder on the nail if you accidentally cut into the quick and it bleeds. Gently apply pressure with a clean cloth for approximately five minutes until the bleeding stops.