How to Get a Dog Used to Nail Trimming

Regular nail trimming is an important part of your dog’s grooming routine. Without the correct care, nails can become overgrown, resulting in pain while running or walking, infected paw pads, painful split nails, foot deformity, and other mobility issues. But not all dogs enjoy the process, so how do you get your dog used to nail clipping—enough, at least, that they don’t get stressed?

That is what we hope to demonstrate in this article. But, first…

How to Clip a Dog’s Nails

First, you need the right tools—a sharp pair of clippers that will cut through the nail in a single motion. Hold your dog’s paw gently in your hand and slowly move the clippers from one nail to the next, talking to your dog the whole time, reassuring them, and telling them how good they are.

Just trim a little bit from the end of each nail, as this is less likely to cause them undue stress. You can always go back for a second run if you don’t get them as short as you’d like.

Be careful not to cut the quick—the soft cuticle inside the nail—as this will be very painful for your dog and can even cause bleeding or infection. If in doubt, leave the nail longer rather than risk hurting your pet.

5 Ways to Get Your Dog Used to Nail Trimming

Start early

While puppies might be more of a handful than a mature dog, they are also more trusting and less likely to be scared of nail clippers. Start trimming their nails from a young age, and they’ll soon recognise that there’s nothing to worry about.

Use treats

Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective ways to mould your dog’s behaviour, and nail trimming is no exception. Every time you clip their nails, let them have a treat so they associate the process with something pleasant.

Get them used to having their paws handled

Some dogs just aren’t very tactile. Spend time outside of your grooming sessions handling their paws, gently rubbing the pads, and letting them know that nothing bad will happen while you have hold of them.

Use sharp clippers:

Much of the trauma dogs experience while getting their nails trimmed comes from using blunt clippers, which is uncomfortable at best and painful at worst. Sharp clippers let you get the job done in a matter of seconds—no fuss and no stress.

Get help from the professionals:

If your dog is not having a pleasant time whatever you try to do, maybe it’s time to bring them to your local, trusted dog grooming salon, where trained experts can handle the job for you.