How to Clip Dog Nail?

(April 30, 2010)

Do you hear a clicking sound when your dog walks? Do his nails get caught in the carpet in your house? If your answer to these questions is yes, then it’s time to give your dog a pedicure. Or in other words, you need to cut your dog’s nails.  

This can be a scary prospect for you if you’ve never cut dogs nails before and always relied on your veterinarian. Don’t panic or be afraid. Here are a few tips to help you cut dogs nails.

Dog nail care is very important for your dog’s wellbeing. If your dog is really small and is getting his nails cut for the first time, get him used to the idea of getting his nails cut by tapping the clippers gently on his nails. Talk to him in a gentle tone so as to relax him.

The first thing you need to do is to get hold of a good pair of nail trimmers from the market. If you’re unsure of which ones to buy check with your vet or a dog groomer. Sharp trimmers will ensure that your task becomes easier.

Do not snip the entire nail at one time, but cut off a little starting from the tip of the nail. You will soon see a pale pink tissue near the cut edge; this is when you have to stop cutting his nail. Just as you file your nails to make the edges smooth, your dog’s nails need to be smoothened as well.    

The pink section on the white nails is called the quick. This is very delicate and will bleed if you cut it by mistake. So be very careful. In dark nails this becomes more difficult as the quick is not easily seen. If you do cut the nail’s tip too much and there is some bleeding, use cotton or some styptic powder immediately. Make sure you also remember to cut the dewclaw nail which is on the inside of the legs.  Also if you do cut the quick by mistake, do not allow your dog to go running all over the place. Instead hold him and reassure him so that he learns to trust you.  

Ensure you clip your dog’s nails at least once a fortnight. This will help you dog avoid ingrown nails or traction problems. Reward your dog with a treat after the nail-clipping session. Reserve this treat only for the nail clipping activity so that your dog associates both together and looks forward to the session.