Regular nail trimming is important to your dog's health and well-being. Use nail clippers designed for your dog's nail. Most dogs do not like their claws trimmed while other dogs will sit calmly while you trim. Clipping nails should be started when dogs are very young.
You will need to get the dog accustomed to you holding their paw and applying a little pressure. Use special treats as rewards for their cooperation. These treats should be special and not used at any other time except for nail clipping. A soft voice should also be used to let the dog know you mean no harm.
Supplies you should have ready before starting the nail clipping. There are a variety of nail clippers available on the market. Visit your pet store and see which one feels best in your hand. With the guillotine type clipper the nail goes through the opening for the nail to be clipped.
You should also have available a small file for those ragged edges. If your dog will not let you file his nails after clipping and he is an outside dog he will smooth the nail naturally. Another helpful item is a styptic pen that can be used if there is a small amount of bleeding.
After your dog has become accustom to the pressure against his paw you should try just clipping the tips of a few nails. Take as much time as needed to gain your dog's trust.
Then holding the paw in your hand use your thumb to press each digit you are working with. The nail should be in full view with no obstructions even the hair around the nail. Inspect the top and bottom of each nail. White nails you can identify the quick where the blood vessels are located much easier than with black nails. Cutting the tips off will cause the quick to recede a little after each clipping.
Cutting the tips of black nails is especially important if you are not able to identify the quick. Claws on the hind feet are often shorter and require less frequent trimming than those on the front feet. Don't forget the dew claws on the inside of the foot if your dog has not had those removed. Dew claws do not touch the ground so they are not worn down as the dog walks.
When using the guillotine trimmers place the nail through the stationary ring in trimmer cutting nail top to bottom or bottom to top. The blade should always be facing you to see how much nail you are cutting. You will be less likely to cut the quick. Do not cut nail side to side this may cause nail to splinter. Several small cuts should be used to prevent cutting the quick. Should you make the nail bleed use the styptic pen until you get the bleeding stopped. If the bleeding continues call your veterinarian.
Nail clipping regularly is important and will keep your dog healthy and happy. Should you feel uncomfortable clipping the nails contact your veterinarian or a good groomer.
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