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Why trim your dog's nails

  • Prevent overgrowth

    Regular nail trimming prevents overgrowth, which can cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty in walking or running for your dog

  • Comfort with handling

    Regular trimming sessions can help your dog become more comfortable with being handled, helping them feel better during veterinary exams, grooming appointments, and other necessary procedures throughout their life

  • Nail health

    Trimming your dog's nails helps avoid issues such as nail breakage, splitting, or ingrown nails, which can lead to infections and other complications

"Nail Trimming"

Tips for trimming your dog’s nails

The key to trimming your dog’s nails is to help them get comfortable with the clippers. To do this:


• Start by simply showing your dog the clippers. Every time they sniff the clippers, say “Yes” and give your dog a treat. By doing this, you’re helping them make a good association with the clippers.


• Touch their paws with the clippers. Once your dog is comfortable sniffing the clippers, start touching their paws with the back of the clippers. Every time you touch the clippers to a paw, say “Yes” and give them a treat.


Once your dog is comfortable with the clippers touching their paws, you can start trimming their nails. To do this:


• Hold one paw in your hand. Have your dog sit on a non-slip mat or towel and hold one paw in your hand. Place your thumb on the pad of the toe and your forefinger on the top of the toe just above the nail.


• Trim slowly. Push your thumb slightly up while pushing your forefinger forward. This extends the nail. Clip the tip of the nail straight across. Do not clip past the curve of the nail. This area is called the quick and this is where nerves and blood vessels are. If you do cut the quick, you will hurt your dog and their nail will bleed.


• Work at your dog’s speed. To help your dog get used to having their nails trimmed, keep the sessions short and work at your dog’s speed. Start with one nail, and stop immediately if your dog shows signs of stress or discomfort.


• Provide your dog with lots of rewards. Help your dog feel good about nail trimming by feeding them treats or providing them with other rewards throughout each trimming session.