Using a dog nail trimmer how to#

You can also ask one of the veterinary clinic employees to demonstrate how to cut black nails properly. If you feel uncomfortable clipping your dog’s black nails, schedule a nail trim appointment at your veterinarian’s office. Once you begin cutting, you may see a chalk-like white ring that surrounds the beginning of the quick. Since their nail is naturally pigmented, it can be difficult to see where the quick begins. How to Cut Dog Nails That Are Blackĭogs with black nails can present more of a challenge. If at any point you feel uncomfortable with the process, or think you are causing your dog pain, please stop and contact your local veterinarian for further instructions. If you are concerned that you may be cutting too close to the quick, it is best to leave that nail a little longer. If you accidentally cut this part of the nail, it will cause bleeding and some pain for your dog.

The quick is the center portion of the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves. It is important not to clip behind the natural curve of the nail because this is where the “quick” starts. How Short Should You Cut Your Dog’s Nails? With your dominant hand, hold the file and gently round off any sharp edges for a smooth finish. Take a heavy-duty nail file, grasp your dog’s paw gently, and spread the toes apart. How to File Your Dog’s Nails to Smooth Them After Clippingįiling your dog’s nails is primarily done to remove any sharp tips or fragments left over after clipping your dog’s nails. Give lots of high-value treats before, during, and after to associate nail trims with big rewards. Do not clip behind the natural curve of the nail.

When your dog is holding still, clip straight across the tip of the nail. Make sure there is no hair blocking your view of the entire nail. Push down slightly on the paw pad to extend the nail forward. Gently but firmly hold one of your dog’s paws between your thumb and forefinger. If you have a large dog, it’s helpful to have another person hold your dog while you cut their nails. If you have a small dog, hold your dog in your lap or place them on a steady surface.

Using a dog nail trimmer free#

Give your dog tasty treats when the clippers come out.įind a quiet area where your dog is comfortable and free from distractions. Try bringing the nail clippers out, clicking them, and letting your dog smell them on different occasions (without actually cutting their nails) so they get used to them. It may be helpful to gradually get your dog accustomed to the sight and sound of the nail clippers before you try to cut your dog’s nails. Styptic powder will help stop the bleeding so that you can care for your dog’s toe. Styptic PowderĪ good styptic powder is smart to have on hand for those instances where you accidentally cut a nail too short. Keep some treats nearby for positive reinforcement to help make nail trims less scary for your dog. Scissor-style or plier-style nail clippers can be used for both small and large dogs, but you may find it easier to use nail clippers specifically made for cats or small dogs if you have a miniature pooch.įor very small or very young dogs, you can use human nail clippers, but it’s generally easier to see what you are doing with trimmers made specifically for dogs. Some brands even have a guard so you don’t accidentally cut the nail too short. These are especially helpful for dogs with thick, tough nails. While some people might prefer guillotine-style clippers, the spring-loaded scissor-style or plier-style nail clippers are favored by most veterinary professionals. There are a variety of options you can use to trim your dog’s nails. Thankfully, you won’t need an entire toolbox dedicated to your dog’s pedicure-just these handy tools will do the trick: Tools for Trimming Your Dog’s Nails at Home How to Stop a Dog's Toenail From Bleeding.How Often Should You Trim Your Dog's Nails?.How Short Should You Cut Your Dog’s Nails?.Tools for Trimming Your Dog’s Nails at Home.Here’s a guide for dog nail trimming, including how to cut dog nails, how to file dog nails, the tools you’ll need to trim your dog’s nails, and tips for minimizing stress and preventing injury. Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed prevents them from dealing with unnecessary pain.Ĭutting or filing your dog’s nails regularly should be a routine part of dog grooming, but for many dogs, having their nails clipped can be extremely stressful.