As much as dogs need to stay healthy and exercise regularly, it’s important to look into their grooming so they stay fit from head to toe.
And there are times we tend to ignore their toes or, to be precise, their nails. For many dog owners, there is a question on how to cut dog nails.
Well, it’s obvious because many dogs hate when someone touches their nails so trimming dog nails at home could be a little difficult but not impossible.
Dog owners have to be calm and mindful because many are afraid of hurting their dogs but don’t worry you can do it without harming your precious furry buddies.
Just be focused, forget stress and follow the dog nail trimming tips to not hurt your dog. We have advice on if you accidentally cut nails too deeply then what you can do.
Why Nail Trimming is Important for Dogs
Just like humans, dogs also need nail trimming. Even though for some people nail trimming is not a big thing, it does impact dog health in different ways that we cannot risk.
For good health and comfort, you must look out for overgrown nails of dogs because they can cause various issues, such as:
Discomfort and Pain
Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and pain too.
Well, long dog nails can alter their gait, which means there will be more pressure on their joints and cause pain over time.
Injury Risk
Long nails have a high chance of breaking, splitting, or cracking, which not only causes pain but also infections.
Traction Problems
Friction is important to walk as we all know but dogs not only rely on their paws to walk but on their nails too.
They grip through their nails and when nails overgrow it gets harder for them to walk, especially on slippery surfaces.
Health Issues
Long nails also affect dogs’ health and cause them too much pain.
When your dog’s nail grows into the paw pads, which not only causes pain but also wounds and infections that could be very dangerous.
Tools You Need to Cut Dog Nails
If you have decided to cut your dog’s nails at home, then you will definitely require these dog nail clippers.
These are the best dog nail clippers, which makes the trimming easier and safer.
Dog Nail Clippers
Nail clippers are the most important thing for cutting dog nails and choosing the right pair according to the size of your dog would make trimming easier.
Some of the common clippers that are easily available are:
Scissor Clippers
Don’t confuse these clippers with scissors because they might look like one.
These scissor clippers have small grooves in the blades so that it would hold the nail steady while you cut it.
Plier-Style Clippers
Plier-Style Clippers are more appropriate for large dogs because they need stronger clippers with a good grip and Plier-Style Clippers do not disappoint.
They have a strong spring that makes cutting easier.
Guillotine-Style Clippers
These are the best dog nail clippers for small dogs because they’re easy to use and stay sharp for a long time.
In Guillotine-Style Clippers, we can put the nail through a small hole, and a sharp blade moves up to cut it.
Nail Grinder (Optional)
Nail grinders are great for dogs with black nails and can smooth rough edges too.
However, it’s not the best tool for dogs that jump a lot yet the positive side makes the trimming easier and does not hit the quickest.
Styptic Powder or Gel
Quick, which is the blood vessel inside the nail, might get damaged and start bleeding if you accidentally cut it so for that you can use Styptic Powder or Gel as it’s yet another important thing.
Towel or Blanket
It’s just a basic dog nail-trimming tip where you can keep a towel or blanket handy so that you can hold nervous or highly excited dogs securely so they won’t end up hurting themselves.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting Dog Nails
Follow these steps to safely cut dog nails and make trimming nails at home easier:
Bring Your Tools and Examine Dog Nails First
Be prepared and bring in your required tools to the place where you are going to trim your dog’s nails so that everything stays handy.
Also, the place should be quiet to avoid any nervousness, then check your nails and find the quick.
The quick area looks pinkish in light-colored nails, while in dark nails you just trim them carefully and in small amounts to avoid cutting the quick.
Position Your Dog and Start Trimming
See, your dog might get nervous so calm them, then make them lay or sit in whatever is comfortable for you and your dog.
Then gently but firmly hold your dog’s paw. Take the clipper, place it at a 45-degree angle and start cutting nails in small sections at a time to avoid the quick.
Once you see the whitish or darker center in the nail, you should stop because you are done cutting nails.
Smooth the Edges
A nail grinder or filing is the best after nail trimming to avoid snagging or splitting, which again can be painful.
Reward Your Dog
This goes without saying, praise your dog for their calm and patient behavior and give them treats after each paw to make the experience positive and yummy.
Tips for Keeping Your Dog Calm During Nail Trims
Many dogs don’t like anyone touching their paw, let alone nails and they hate it when you are trying to cut their nails. So here are some dog nail-trimming tips that will reduce stress:
Start Cutting At a Young Age
Don’t be afraid of cutting the nails of a puppy because, as early as you start, the more comfortable they get with time.
Desensitize Gradually
When we touch our dogs’ paws, they feel a sensation that might be uncomfortable for many dogs so make sure you handle your dog’s paws regularly to make them comfortable with the sensation.
Reward them for their Good Behavior
When your dog stays calm while nail trimming, reward them for their good behavior and give them treats, praise, or a favorite toy so that next time they will cut their nails happily.
Take Breaks and Look for Professionals When Needed
If your dog is very anxious, take short breaks and give them time to calm down.
If these things don’t work, take your dog to a groomer or vet so that they can assist.
What to Do If You Accidentally Cut the Quick
Don’t worry about accidents because even the professionals might cut the quick mistakenly. So, don’t panic and handle the situation like a pro with these tips:
Dogs Pick Energy
You have to stay calm because dogs pick on energy and if you panic, they will be in distress too so be calm and composed.
Apply Styptic Powder
Styptic powder works wonders so dab a small amount of it on the bleeding area on the nail so it stops.
Cornstarch can also be useful in a pinch.
Applying Pressure Can Stop Blood
With a tissue or a clean cloth, you need to tightly hold the area where it is bleeding for a few minutes to help clotting.
Look Out for Infection
Look out for any sign of infection in the next few days, If there is swelling or redness even after a few days, take your dog to the vet.
For some dog owners, trimming can be difficult or they might be afraid of their furry buddies but don’t worry if you follow these dog nail trimming tips, you can safely cut dog nails.
Also, don’t forget practice makes everyone perfect. So keep these tips in mind and cut your dog’s nails at home.
