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For many, the thought of cutting their dog's nails can create a sense of dread, not only in the dog, but the owner as well. Look at it as just another side of grooming that needs to be done.
Here are a few helpful tips that will make the experience more enjoyable, and hopefully remove the fear you may have of clipping your dog's nails.
The Tools
Clipping your dog's nails should be done each month and it's important that you have the proper tools for the job. You'll need a pair of clippers that are made specifically for clipping your dog's nails.
You can also choose to use a battery operated tool that files the nail down. They may be a little more expensive but could very well be a better method for you. Experiment to see what's most comfortable for you and your dog.
Clipping
Start by cutting the very tip of the nail. If you accidently cut the quick, which is a blood vessel inside the nail, bleeding can occur and it'll prove to be a painful experience for your dog.
Ideally, you'll want your dog to be comfortable before beginning this task. You certainly don't want to pin her down to clip her nails!
Your dog should look at nail clipping as a positive experience. To accomplish this, start off slow. Before you even pick up the clipper, play with your dog. Touch her legs and paws, rub her nails. Allow her to become comfortable with being touched in this way.
It would be a good idea to take her for a nice walk before you start clipping. This will relax your dog and expend any energy she may have. Then she'll be nice and calm for the nail clipping.
When you're ready, touch your dog's paws again in a loving way. Show her the clippers, let her sniff them for a few moments to become familiar with them.
Begin by asking your dog for her paw several times. With each positive response, give her a little treat. Don't forget that a little praise goes a long way!
Take the clippers and cut one of her nails at a 90 degree angle. Give her a little treat and a lot of praise after cutting each nail. If she's afraid or panicky, put the clipper down and try it again later.
If she's calm and doesn't seem to mind the clipping, continue on. Remember to give her a little treat, and lots of praise, after clipping each nail. This will make the experience a positive one for her.
It's important to remain consistent with your dog's nail cutting. Eventually, the quick will retreat, which will make future nail clipping a lot easier for both of you.
Give yourself a pat on the back too, you did a great job!
Lori
Here are a few helpful tips that will make the experience more enjoyable, and hopefully remove the fear you may have of clipping your dog's nails.
The Tools
Clipping your dog's nails should be done each month and it's important that you have the proper tools for the job. You'll need a pair of clippers that are made specifically for clipping your dog's nails.
You can also choose to use a battery operated tool that files the nail down. They may be a little more expensive but could very well be a better method for you. Experiment to see what's most comfortable for you and your dog.
Clipping
Start by cutting the very tip of the nail. If you accidently cut the quick, which is a blood vessel inside the nail, bleeding can occur and it'll prove to be a painful experience for your dog.
Ideally, you'll want your dog to be comfortable before beginning this task. You certainly don't want to pin her down to clip her nails!
Your dog should look at nail clipping as a positive experience. To accomplish this, start off slow. Before you even pick up the clipper, play with your dog. Touch her legs and paws, rub her nails. Allow her to become comfortable with being touched in this way.
It would be a good idea to take her for a nice walk before you start clipping. This will relax your dog and expend any energy she may have. Then she'll be nice and calm for the nail clipping.
When you're ready, touch your dog's paws again in a loving way. Show her the clippers, let her sniff them for a few moments to become familiar with them.
Begin by asking your dog for her paw several times. With each positive response, give her a little treat. Don't forget that a little praise goes a long way!
Take the clippers and cut one of her nails at a 90 degree angle. Give her a little treat and a lot of praise after cutting each nail. If she's afraid or panicky, put the clipper down and try it again later.
If she's calm and doesn't seem to mind the clipping, continue on. Remember to give her a little treat, and lots of praise, after clipping each nail. This will make the experience a positive one for her.
It's important to remain consistent with your dog's nail cutting. Eventually, the quick will retreat, which will make future nail clipping a lot easier for both of you.
Give yourself a pat on the back too, you did a great job!
Lori
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