Nail trims are a part of your dog’s grooming requirements. You’ll know it’s time to trim your dog’s nails when you hear them clicking against the floor. It is best to clip your dog’s nails once per week. Trimming your dog’s nails can be a daunting task for some dog owners. Especially because not all dogs like their feet being handled. Learning how to properly trim your dog’s nails can make the task much easier. Continue reading below to learn how to properly trim your dog’s nails.
Equipment You’ll Need
1. Dog Nail Clippers
With several types of nail trimmers available on the market, it is important to choose the right one for your dog’s nails. Make sure you choose the size which is ideal for your dog’s nails. The guillotine-style nail clipper is easy to use and works best for small breeds. For larger breeds, we recommend using the pliers-style nail clipper. Alternatively, you can also use the scissors-style nail clipper.
2. Styptic Powder
Styptic powder can come in handy if you cut your dog’s nail too short and bleeding occurs. It takes practice to get the technique right. If you trim too deep, you will hit a vein which will cause bleeding. Your dog’s nail is made up of a region called the ‘’quick’’. It is the pink part where there are blood vessels which supply blood to the nail. Simply apply styptic powder if there is any bleeding.
3. Treats
Give your dog treats as a reward. This will ensure that he remembers this as a positive experience and will look forward to the next nail trimming session.
How to Trim Your Dog’s Nails
Choose a quiet space, with minimal distractions for your dog’s nail trim sessions. Start off by testing your dog’s nail clippers. Make sure the blades are in good condition. Use a firm grip when trimming your dog’s nails. This way you will be able to keep his foot steady and use your fingers to separate his toes. If this is his first time, start by giving him a gentle paw massage. Nails become softer after a bath, so it might be preferable to give him a pedicure after he has had a bath.
Trimming your Dog’s Nails for the First Time
If you or your dog are first timers at nail trims, start by holding his feet to see how comfortable he is. Once he allows you to handle his feet, you can slowly begin to start trimming his nails. Snip off the edge of each toenail and stop immediately if the nail feels spongy. It is important to make sure you do not hit the ‘’quick’’ region of your dog’s nail. It feels spongy in contrast to the hard nail surface. If your dog’s nail is light-colored, you will be able to see the quick. However, if your dog has black nails, you will have to trim the edge of the nail to begin and then stop once you see a small dark circle. It is difficult to see the quick if your dog has black nails. In case you cut too short and there is bleeding, apply pressure and then styptic powder. Talk to your dog so he remains calm throughout the trim session.
Nail trims are not as difficult as some dog parents might fear them to be. So put aside any apprehensions you might have and be confident. Give your dog treats after the trim so that he looks forward to the next session. Regular trims will keep your dog clean, comfortable, and healthy.
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