Things You'll Need:
- Dog nail trimmers
- Styptic powder
- Throw rug or towel
- Chew toy
- Dog treat
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Step 1
Assemble the dog nail clippers, file, styptic powder and a throw rug or towel in a comfortable area. Sit on the floor or place your puppy up on a raised surface, unless your puppy doesn't like being up high. Be sure your clippers are sharp and that you're comfortable using them.
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Step 2
Make clipping the puppy's nails a pleasant experience. Keep your puppy comfortable and give him a favorite chew toy. Stay relaxed and confident and he will too. Attempt the trimming job during your puppy's sleepy time. When they're sleepy they are less likely to struggle to get their paw free from you during their manicure.
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Step 3
Place your fingers under the paw, and your thumb on top. Use your thumb to gently separate the toe which has the nail you want to trim. Push on the pad slightly to extend the nail.
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Step 4
Examine the nail for damage and, if you're lucky enough to have a puppy with white nails, see where the pink "quick" is located. Note that the quick is longer at the top of your puppy's nail than it is near the center or underneath. The quick will bleed if clipped, so stay back from it.
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Step 5
Clip just a small amount of the puppies nails at first. It's much better to make frequent clippings than to cut the quick and set up a lifetime of fear of clipping nails. If you accidentally cut the quick, apply the styptic powder to stop the bleeding.
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Step 6
Take time to clip your puppy's nails every month or so and offer a treat and lots of praise when finished. This will keep the puppy's nails at a reasonable length and get her used to having her feet handled.
