Trimming Your Dog’s Nails the Easy Way

Let's Make Trimming your dog's nails less of a horror story and more of an enjoyable day for the both of you.

Imagine this: 

You are lying in bed, snuggling with your furry baby and admiring how soft their coat is.

All of a sudden, they lift their paw up and rest it on your chest.

You suddenly realize that their nails are ridiculously long and need to be trimmed. 

You start having nightmarish thoughts about all of the blood that may come from their nails if you cut accidentally cut too much off.

Well, believe it or not, there is an easy way to trim your pet's nails without all the stress (and bloodshed).

Keep reading to find out more! 

Consequences of Long nails

Dogs are subject to the same hygiene rules as humans. Trimming your dog's nails is an important part of caring for them. 

Long nails can cause your dog pain, discomfort, and difficulty walking. 

If you do not trim your dog's nails, they can grow too long and start to curve, which can cause your dog pain when walking. 

Long nails can also split and break, which can be extremely painful for your dog. 

In addition, long nails can make it difficult for your dog to grip the ground, leading to slips and falls. 

Long nails can also damage your dog's foot. This is due to their nails causing them to walk on the wrong part of their foot which causes pain and discomfort. 

Therefore it is important to keep your dog's nails trimmed on a regular basis. Let's read on to find out how to get your dog ready to get their nails trimmed. 

Prepare Your Dog For Claw Trimming

If you are like most dog owners, the thought of trimming your dog's nails probably fills you with dread. However, it is important to keep your dog's nails trimmed and tidy to prevent wounds and infection. 

The good news is that you can take a few simple steps to make trimming your dog's nails a breeze. 

Playing With Your Dog's Paws

If your dog is especially nervous about having his paws touched, then I would begin here. Start by playing with their paws. 

Start slowly at first by putting one finger on their paw. Then as they get more comfortable, start rubbing their feet. Gently massage your dog's feet periodically throughout the day. 

Give them treats as you go to let them know it is ok and they are safe. Also, praise them and let them know they are such a great sport. 

Playing with their feet will make it easier to trim their nails without having to struggle. 

Getting the Supplies Ready

Trimming your dog's nails is much easier if you have the right tools. 

First, you will need a good pair of clippers or nail grinder. 

Second, you will need a file or grinding tool to smooth out any rough edges.

Finally, you may want to include styptic powder in case you accidentally cut into the quick (the blood vessel inside the nail). 

Make sure to have all of these supplies where you are going to cut your dog's nails before getting your dog. That way, you are not scrambling while trying to hold onto your dog. 

With these tools in hand, you will be able to trim your dog's nails safely and effectively. 

Make the Environment Comfortable

Make sure to make your environment comfortable for your dog. Your dog probably does not want to get his nails trimmed on a hard surface such as your hardwood floor. Therefore, making your work environment comfortable for your pup is important. 

Soft Surface

Try to find a soft surface your dog can lay on while cutting his nails. A plush rug or a comfortable bed will help to keep your dog calm and still while you work. If your dog is comfortable, the process will be easier because you will less likely accidentally cut into their quick. 

Safe Space

It is important to trim your dog's nails in a safe place. If you trim your dog's nails in the bathroom or laundry room, they may associate the trimming with being in a scary place. As a result, they may become anxious or stressed every time you trim their nails. 

Instead, trim your dog's nails in a space such as where they eat or sleep. This will help them associate the trimming with a more positive experience. 

Remember to cut the nails in a quiet place where your dog feels comfortable. Make sure to reward them with treats or praise when they stay still. I always give my fur baby a treat after every toe. I want him to know he is loved and is doing a great job!

Pay Attention to Body Language

To prevent your dog from becoming frightened during nail trimming, pay attention to his body language and respond appropriately. 

Pay attention to any signs of discomfort, such as yawning, barking, or whining. These signals can mean that your dog is not comfortable, and you will need to stop for a second to readjust. 

Observing your dog's body language will help you avoid stalling your progress and keep your pet calm and happy.

Tips For Cutting the Nails

Avoid making the process too fast or too slow for your dog. If you trim your dog's nails too quickly, you may cause bleeding and pain. 

Trimming too slowly can also be painful for your dog. The best way to trim your dog's nails is to trim a little bit at a time until you reach the desired length. 

When I trim my dog's paws I trim a little from each nail on one paw and then move on to the next paw. I then go back to the first nail I trimmed. I follow this pattern until my dog's nails are the size I want them to be. 

You should also avoid trimming the nails too close to the quick, as this can also cause pain and bleeding. 

Make sure to sharpen your clipper blades regularly so your dog doesn't feel pain while clipping their nail. A dull blade will cause pain.

What is the Quick

You have heard me talking a lot about the quick in this post. What is the quick? 

The quick is the pinkish flesh inside the nail that supplies blood to the nail. If you cut into the quick, your dog will experience pain, and the nail will start to bleed. 

To find the quick, you can look at the underside of your dog's nail. There should be a small ridge in the center of the nail. If you are not sure where to cut, err on the side of cutting too long rather than short. It is better not to cut the quick as your dog will be in pain. 

Start During the Puppy Years

To prepare your dog for nail clipping, start young. A puppy's nails are easier to trim than an adult dog's. 

Puppies are typically more cooperative and less resistant to handling than adult dogs. In addition, tripping a puppy's nails regularly can help the animal get used to the process, making it easier for both the dog and owner in the future. 

A puppy will feel more comfortable and relaxed and will be more willing to allow you to perform this procedure. Make sure to use safe clippers and grinders, and try to hold your puppy's paws often. 

Painlessly Cut the Nails

To make the process a little more comfortable for your dog, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends letting your dog lick peanut butter from a wall mat.

Plus, it turns nail trimming into a bonding moment with you and your dog and gives them a tasty treat.

As we have mentioned earlier, it is important to trim your dog's nails regularly to keep them healthy and avoid pain. The best way to trim your dog's nails is to use a nail trimmer specifically designed for dogs. 

These trimmers are usually made of stainless steel and have curved blades that make it easy to get a clean, close cut. 

First, gently hold your dog's paw and extend the nail you want to trim. 

Then, place the trimmer on the nail at a 45-degree angle and trim away the sharp point. It is important only to trim a little bit at a time and not to cut too close to the quick, which is the blood vessel in the nail. 

Trimming your dog's nails does not have to be difficult or painful. With a little practice, you will be able to do it quickly and easily. 

Conclusion

If you are looking for a painless way to trim your pet's claws, look no further. These tips will have them trimmed in no time and with minimal fuss on both your part and theirs. 

How do you trim your pet's claws? 

Let us know in the comments below!