You Might Be Using The WRONG Tool For Dog Nail Trimming!, by McCann Dog Training on YouTube. 9 min 54 s.
- Video length
- 9 min 54 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Start by handling your dog's paws while calm. Touch each toe and press gently so the nail extends, then give a treat. Do this over several short sessions before you cut anything.
Pick your tool. A grinder files the nail down slowly and is hard to over-cut. Guillotine clippers slice a thin slice off. Scissor clippers take bigger bites and are easier to misuse.
If using a grinder, turn it on nearby first so the sound is familiar. Hold the paw steady and touch the spinning drum to the nail tip in short taps, a second or two at a time.
Grind a little at a time and check the nail end often. Stop when you see a small dark dot or pale circle in the centre, which is the start of the quick.
For guillotine clippers, slide the nail into the hole and squeeze. Take small slices off the tip rather than one big cut, checking the end after each slice.
For scissor clippers, place the nail between the blades and cut straight across the tip. Keep cuts small and work around all four paws.
Trim the dewclaws on the inner side of the legs too, since they do not wear down on walks.
If you nick the quick and it bleeds, press styptic powder onto the nail and hold pressure. Praise your dog and end the session on a good note.
Tips and common mistakes
Scissor clippers can crush or split the nail if you take too much at once, so go slow.
Never force a scared dog. A few nails a day beats a wrestling match.
Keep styptic powder within reach every time you trim.
Ask your vet or groomer to show you the quick on your own dog if you are unsure.
Questions
How do I know where the quick is?
On clear or light nails you can see a pink area inside. On dark nails, look for a grey or black dot in the centre of the cut end and stop there.
Is a grinder better than clippers?
A grinder removes small amounts slowly, so it is harder to cut too deep. Clippers are faster but take bigger bites, so they need a steadier hand.
How often should I trim my dog's nails?
Most dogs need a trim every three to four weeks. If you hear clicking on the floor, they are overdue.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
