Trimming your puppy’s nails can be a harrowing experience. If you don’t cut enough your dog could have problems as a result, and if you cut too much you could hurt them. Of course, a little knowledge could go a long way to easing your anxiety which in turn could help your pet to be more at ease.
There are two methods of trimming a dog’s nails. It is important that you pick the one that both you and your dog are comfortable with. Then prepare your dog by teaching them to associate having their paws handled with good things, such as treats. Also make sure to take it slow once you get started. Make sure that you have your chosen method of trimming available, clotting powder, treats, and a quiet area to do the trimming.
First, there is clipping. There are two types of clippers. One is a guillotine which has a hole the nail goes through, and when you squeeze the blade cuts off whatever is sticking out. The second one is scissors which work exactly the way the name suggests. When using clippers pick up the dog’s paw, give them a treat (which you should have been teaching them to associate this with), hold their toe firmly, and then cut. With scissor clippers hold the clippers at a right angle while quickly squeezing them closed. With the guillotine clippers hold the clippers vertical and then squeeze the handle.
The second trimming method is grinding. This tool is similar to that of a Dremel tool. It works by sanding the nails down. Of course, the one downfall to using this tool is that the vibrations, and the sounds can make your pet nervous. The best way to counteract this is spending a few days getting your dog used to the tool without using it to trim. Turn it on and hold it against the legs so that they can get used to the vibrations and sounds. Once they are used to the tool hold the sanding part of the tool against the tip of the nail, and slowly sand away.
Photo by Ginny.
Regardless of which method you choose be sure not to go past the quick of the nail. Doing so could cause bleeding. In white nails the quick is easy to recognize since you can see the pink line. With darker nails you can hold a light underneath to help you find the line.
If you find that you just can’t cut their nails then it might be best if you allow a professional to do the job for you. A professional pet groomer or your veterinarian would be able to help you with this task. Just do it wherever your pet feels more comfortable. Good luck, and happy grooming!