Dog Nail Clipping Tips

Clipping a dog's nails is probably not your idea of a good time. Dogs usually don't like it, either. But being a responsible pet owner means keeping your dog well groomed, which includes trimming those nails. Fortunately, it does not have to be an altogether unpleasant experience. There are several things you can do to make this part of the grooming process easier on both you and your dog.

  1. Clip and File Regularly

    • Clipping a small amount of your dog's nails on a regular basis is more effective than waiting until the nails are excessively long to clip them. A good indicator for when the nails need trimming is when they are making scratching sounds on hard-surfaced floors. Having long nails can be painful for dogs when they walk, so keeping the nails short is much more comfortable for them, and grooming regularly normalizes the process. Dogs love routine and will respond much better to having their nails clipped and filed if you make it into a ritual activity. Be sure to praise your dog each time after you finish grooming, because that makes the entire process less stressful for him.

    Use the Proper Tools

    • What works for your miniature dachshund will not work for your full-grown golden retriever's paws. Medium- and large-sized dogs need the heavy-duty guillotine-style clippers, while the scissor clippers are appropriate for smaller dogs. The "bastard" file, which can be purchased at most hardware stores, is an ideal file for larger dogs, while most pet stores carry a variety of nail files that are distinctly classified for small, medium and large dogs. You might also want to use nail polish to give the nails a clean finish. Keep a supply of corn starch and bandages handy in case you accidentally cut into "quick" (live flesh) and the dog starts bleeding. If the bleeding is serious, consult your veterinarian.

    Try a Nail Grinder

    • The nail grinder is a hand-held electric power tool that is best described as a mini-sander. The small sand belt at its tip is ideal for trimming a dog's nails and is less painful than the traditional clip-and-file approach. However, your dog may need time to get used to the noise and the sensation of the sanding belt itself. Make a point of turning the nail grinder on frequently before you actually use it to trim your dog's toenails. That will help him get used to the sound it makes, and then it won't be scary and unfamiliar when you use it for grooming. When grooming your dog with a nail grinder, it is important that you go slowly, so as not to startle or risk cutting into the "quick."