How to Clip Dog Nails

A dog's nails need to be clipped regularly to prevent them from interfering with the dog's natural foot motion. Long nails can cause painful ingrown- and split nails, and may make it difficult for the dog to walk. Check your dog's nails for overgrowth every month to prevent problems.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog nail clippers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Be sure to use nail clippers designed for a dog. Human nail clippers are designed to clip flat nails. A dog's rounded nails require circular clippers that clip straight through the nail.

    • 2

      Examine the dog's nail and determine where it should be clipped. The quick is the end portion of the vein, and should not be cut. Cut the nail that grows past the quick. If the dog's nail is white or light-to-medium brown, the quick will be easy to spot. If the nails are black, you will likely not be able to see the quick; make smaller cuts and advance carefully to avoid cutting through the quick.

    • 3

      Place one nail through the center portion of the clippers. The side of the clippers with screws and a movable arm should face your dog. Leave about 2 mm of the nail past the quick.

    • 4

      Squeeze the movable arm of the clippers to clip the nail. If the nail is black, repeat the process, if needed.