Quick Tips On How To Trim Your Dog’s Nails

If you’re accidentally scratched by your dog or if his/her nails get in the way of mobility, this might be your cue to have them trimmed.

There’s always the trusty vet to perform this task professionally but if you want to spare yourself the expense, do it well so it becomes a comfortable bonding experience. Trimming is not only for mobility or your safety but also for your dog’s health.

Left too long, nails could split or tear, requiring antibiotic treatment and bandaging, or worse, embed themselves in the paws, which can be excruciating. If your pet gets plenty of exercise, his/her nails may naturally wear themselves down while running or walking, and do not need trimming.

Otherwise, here are some grooming tips for you:

• Buy the right nail cutter, one that’s made specially for dogs.
• Ensure that you do not trim the quick or the vertical vein responsible for the nail’s blood supply.
• It’s easy to spot it in white toenails, but tricky in darker toenails.
• Try trimming in layers until color changes at the nail’s center.
• If you accidentally cut the quick, remain calm. It may hurt a bit, but it’ll be okay.
• Just apply styptic powder to ease the bleeding. If you don’t have it, use flour, or corn starch, applying pressure on the nail to encourage clotting.
• Keep them still by feeding them treats, taking one paw at a time.
• Start trimming while they’re young and touch their paws often so they’re accustomed to it.

Happy trimming!