How to Clip Dog Claws

It's vital to keep you pup's claws clipped properly. Nails that grow too long are not only likely to catch and tear, but can cause serious health problems by injury or by causing your dog to alter his/her natural gait and posture.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. The two most accepted ways to keep your dog's claws short and healthy are to use clippers or a dremel.
2. You can see the quick in a clear nail, but not in dark claws Clippers are widely used and there are many styles. Clipping claws with pet clippers is not a difficult thing to do, but if your dog does not have transparent nails, it is easy to catch the quick (soft tissue that grows down inside the claw) which will hurt and bleed. Keep a container of styptic on hand should this happen. Dip the damaged claw into the styptic powder to help staunch bleeding. Once it stops everything will heal quickly. Although such cuts are usually minor, they do bleed a lot and can cause you a lot of anxiety. Still, it is better for the dog's health to risk an occasional nick like this than allow the claws to grow too long and
3. A battery powered dremel I love using a dremel. Use a small battery powered dremel, not the large plug-in type used in the workshop. The battery operated ones are quieter, easier to handle and less frightening to your canine pal. Since the dremel works like a little sander, it is easy to manipulate and will not cut the quick even if it brushes against it lightly.
4. Furry feet can cover the state of the claws. These claws need to be shortened. Whatever method you use, it is best to acclimate your pup to having his/her paws touched from the earliest age possible. First just touch the paws with your hands. Later touch the claws with the clippers or dremel. (Turn the dremel on several times before even approaching the dog's paws so your pup gets used to the sound before it is applied to the claws.) Once your dog is acclimated to you touching his or her feet and is not put off by the sound of the dremel (if you use one), this will become a regular part of your grooming ritual. A well-groomed dog will be a healthier, happier and longer-lived pal.