Instructions
Practice nail trimming with your dog. If you get him used to you holding and touching his paws before you attempt to trim his nails, he will be less likely to be anxious. Gently massage your dog's paws a few times a day each week, until he seems relaxed when you are handling his paws.
Start with one nail, rather than trying to trim your dog's entire paw at once. If your dog seems relaxed after you have trimmed one nail, go ahead and trim a second nail. If she remains anxious during nail trimming, just clip one or two nails each day.
Give your dog a treat after you are done trimming his nails. Even if you only trimmed one or two, make sure you reward him with a treat. This will help your dog develop a positive association with nail clipping. In fact, while you are helping your dog overcome the anxiety, give him a treat after each nail is trimmed---even if you're clipping more than one.
Talk to your dog in a calm, soothing manner. If you use a soft, calm and reassuring tone, it will help your dog relax. Repeat any calming words she identifies with, such as "Good boy" or "Nice dog."
Sit next to your dog. Before you trim his nails, pet him. Affection before, during and after nail clipping can help relax your dog, plus it creates a positive association with the activity.
Give your dog a calming supplement. If you can't relax your dog using the above methods, you may want to try a herbal remedy. Many are made specifically for dogs and come in treat, liquid or pill form.
How to Relax a Dog to Trim His Nails
If you hear the click-clack of of nails on your floors when your dog walks across them, it may be time to give them a trim. However, not all dogs tolerate nail trimming graciously. Many dogs fear nail-clipping, and some may even become aggressive with the person who is trimming their nails. There are a number of different things you can do to relax a dog before you trim his nails.