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Tools to Trim Nails
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There are two basic types of nail trimmers for pets--the manual clipper (scissor style or the guillotine style), or a dremel tool. A dremel tool is often used by groomers, as it has some safety features that allow for more control and contouring during the trimming process. The drawback to the dremel tool is that since it is a power tool, it will make noise, which can cause anxiety or fear in some dogs. Regardless of the tool used, the outcome is the same--shorter, healthier, well maintained canine toe nails.
Trimming the Nail
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It is important to secure the dog in a position where it will not struggle or wiggle during the trimming process. Try placing the dog in a laying position, and then lean across the body to trim the nails on the far paw. If this position is unsuccessful, laying the dog on its side, and secure the leg and paw across the body can help reduce struggling. Once the dog is secured, examine each toenail to determine the length that should be trimmed. For clear nails, the "quick" or vein should be visible, and the nail should be trimmed to a few millimeters in front of the vein. For black nails, look under the nail to get an idea of where the "quick" ends. In black nails, the quick should be indicated by the indentation on the underside of the nail. The dremel tool is useful when trimming black nails, as it allows the nail to be trimmed slowly and gradually, to avoid possibly cutting the "quick". Use extreme caution when trimming black nails, especially if the end of the quick cannot be determined.
Precautions
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If the vein or "quick" is accidentally nicked while trimming the nail, the dogs nail will likely bleed excessively, and can be painful for the animal. It is important to apply pressure to help stop the blood flow. There are products sold in pet stores that are designed to immediately stop blood loss. Examples of these products are "QuickStop" and "QuickClot." If a nail is bleeding and you do not have the products to stop the blood flow, corn starch can be used to help stop the bleeding. Apply a pinch of cornstarch to the nail, and allow it to stay on for 10 to 15 minutes. It should stop the bleeding within a few seconds. Leaving the substance on the nail will ensure the injury will not reopen.
Reducing sensitivity with a dog's feet by handling their toes on a regular basis, even when not trimming nails.
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The Best Way to Cut a Dog's Nails
Trimming a dogs nails can be intimidating, particularly if you are unable to see the vein or "quick" running through the nail. A number of dogs have sensitivity with their feet, making trimming the nails a laborious task. Canine nails need to be trimmed regularly to maintain short, healthy toenails. Overgrown nails can cause a number of problems for a dog, including making walking difficult if nails curl into the paw. Long nails can also be destructive to hardwood floors for indoor dogs.