Dog nails are different than ours. They have an inner part with living tissue and an outer hard shell. The inner part is called “the quick.” The quick actually has nerves and blood vessels in it. So if you accidentally cut too deep while cutting your dog’s nails it will bleed and may hurt your dog. Some dogs respond poorly to surprise or pain. They may yelp or even bite when they feel a sudden pain. So, how do you safely trim a dog’s nails without getting bit?
How to Safely Trim Your Dog’s Nails
Some pet owners simply do not want to deal with this task, so they take their dog to the groomer. Groomers should know how to properly trim a dog’s nails. When choosing a safe groomer, read their reviews online to make sure they have a good reputation in your community. However, some dogs get very nervous about going to the groomer and would prefer to have their nails trimmed at home. You know your dog best, so you can make the choice that would best suit them.
What Tools Do You Need to Trim Your Dogs Nails?
In order to cut your dog’s toenails at home, you will primarily need a nail clipper. Check out our reviews of the best dog nail clippers to choose the best one! There are a few different types of dog nail clippers:
Guillotine dog nail clippersSpring-loaded nail scissorsPlier-style nail clippers (best for dogs with thick nails)Dog nail clippers with a guardDog nail clippers designed specifically for small dogs
Experts say you can also use human nail clippers for small dogs or puppies, but that they don’t let you see what you are doing as well as ones designed for dogs. There are larger nail clippers for larger dogs and smaller ones for small dogs. Get one that is recommended for your dog’s size. You will also need styptic powder, flour, or cornstarch, and dog treats.
Getting Your Dog Accustomed to Nail Clipping
Before you even clip your dog’s nails, it’s important to make them feel comfortable with the idea. If you get a puppy, handle their feet often to get them used to having their feet touched. Even if you did not get your dog as a puppy, periodically bring out the nail clippers and just have them sniff them, so your dog will get used to the tool. When you do this, give your dog a treat so they associate positive things with the nail clippers.
Step by Step Guide to Trimming Your Dogs Nails Safely
How Often to Cut Your Dog’s Nails
Most dogs need their nails clipped about once per month. However, if your dog is more of a lap dog who doesn’t run around that much, they may need more frequent nail trims. Dogs who do a lot of walking, especially on rough terrain, may not need nail trims at all. Walking around on the floor, especially on rough terrain like pavement, naturally trims a dog’s nails. Your dog’s nails should not touch the floor when they are standing. Use that metric to determine when it is time to cut your dog’s nails.
Dog Nail Clippers Versus a Dremel
Some people prefer to grind their dog’s nails down with a Dremel nail grinder instead of using a nail clipper. If your dog is seriously scared of nail clippers, a Dremel may be a good solution. However, in some dogs, the loud buzzing sound of the electric grinder causes fear. Using a nail grinder may be safer for some dogs. It is harder to clip the quick, and it is easier to use on extra-thick or hard nails. It also leads to a pedicure with smoother edges. If using a nail clipper isn’t working great for you, try a Dremel to see if that may be better for your dog.
Step by Step Guide to Trimming Your Dogs Nails Safely
What Tools Do You Need to Trim Your Dogs Nails?
In order to cut your dog’s toenails at home, you will primarily need a nail clipper. Check out our reviews of the best dog nail clippers to choose the best one!
There are a few different types of dog nail clippers:
Guillotine dog nail clippersSpring-loaded nail scissorsPlier-style nail clippers (best for dogs with thick nails)Dog nail clippers with a guardDog nail clippers designed specifically for small dogs
Experts say you can also use human nail clippers for small dogs or puppies, but that they don’t let you see what you are doing as well as ones designed for dogs. There are larger nail clippers for larger dogs and smaller ones for small dogs. Get one that is recommended for your dog’s size.
You will also need styptic powder, flour, or cornstarch, and dog treats.
