How to Trim a Dog's Nails

Your dog's nails should just touch the ground when she walks. If her nails are clicking on the floor or getting snagged in the carpet, it's time for a pedicure. If you've never done it before this article will provide you with sufficient instructions.

Things You'll Need

  • Nail Clippers For Dogs
  • Cornstarches
  • Dog Treats
  • Dog Toys
  • Styptic Powders
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use trimmers designed for pets. Ask your veterinarian or a groomer for advice about what types of nail trimmers are best for your dog and how to use them properly.

    • 2

      Make sure the clippers are sharp.

    • 3

      Start at the tip of the nail and snip a little at a time. Look at the cut edge of the nail. When you start to see pale pink tissue near the top of the cut edge, stop. You can use a nail file to smooth the edges further.

    • 4

      Avoid cutting into the quick, which contains nerves and blood vessels. It is painful and will bleed easily. On white nails, the quick is the pink section.

    • 5

      Be extra careful when cutting dark nails, because the quick is difficult to see.

    • 6

      If the tip of the nail begins to bleed, apply pressure using styptic powder or a substitute such as baby powder or cotton.

    • 7

      Avoid wiping the blood clot off the tip of the nail once the bleeding has stopped.

    • 8

      Remember to trim the dewclaw nail, on the inside of the leg. Since it doesn't touch the ground, it wears down less rapidly than the others.

    • 9

      Trim nails once or twice a month. The quick will lengthen if you don't trim the nail regularly, and long nails can cause traction problems or become ingrown.