Instructions
Inspect your dog's nails for good health before you polish. If your dog has brittle, cracked or split nails don't use a polish as it may aggravate the condition. Instead, rub a nail salve on their toenails and wait a few weeks until their nails are healthy again before you paint.
Trim your dog's toenails a few days prior to painting them, or take them to the vet or the groomer to have their paws trimmed and filed.
Buy dog nail polish and nail polish remover pads. Human nail polish contains formaldehyde and other chemicals which aren't safe for dogs. The same goes for human nail polish remover. There is a wide selection of dog-friendly nail polishes that you can buy online or at a local pet store or bet boutique. You could also order nail polish from a dog grooming supply company.
Make sure your dog is sleepy, happy and relaxed before you start. The less they wiggle, the easier it will be to paint all of those toenails. Sit on the floor or put your dog in your lap and then start painting. Paint fast and don't worry about perfection. If you get some on your dog's fur, just use a remover pad and wipe it off according to the directions.
Use treats to keep your dog happy and sitting still. A nice puppy massage, scratch behind the ears and their favorite treat will keep them stationary long enough for the nail polish to dry. Unless your dog is particularly mellow, consider buying a fast drying dog nail polish formula to speed up the process.
Remove the nail polish when it starts chipping with doggie-safe nail polish remover pads and, again, use plenty of treats to keep your dog entertained while you give him a manicure.
How to Paint a Dog's Toenails
Nail polish isn't just for people anymore. In fact, dog groomers have been giving paw manicures and painting canine toenails for decades (usually to match a complimentary bandana or set of bows). There are even designer dog nail polish lines and "pet-icure" kits. If you would like to paint your dog's toenails, here is how to get started.