The paw-fect pedicure: How to trim a dog's nails

Updated 23/04/2024

Dog nail trimming is just another part of a pup’s routine. Paws need to be pampered every few months or so to keep those padded pouch patrollers in tip-top condition. Dog nail care contributes towards helping your canine companion feel as comfortable as possible when they’re out walking, preventing injury to themselves or others, and stopping bad behaviors like paw chewing.

But, cutting a nail too short can be just as harmful as leaving them to grow out. So, we’ve done the paw work for you to help offer a few helpful handfuls of wisdom on how to trim a dog’s nail at home.

How to trim a dog’s nails

There are two trusty tools you can use for paw pedicures: Canine nail clippers or dog nail grinders. These can be bought from most pet stores or vet practices. Never attempt to trim a dog’s nails with scissors or other human tools. Doggo nail clippers are designed for paws and paws alone.

It’s important your dog feels as secure and calm as possible. Whilst some pooches can be held by their parents, others may need to be attached to with a harness and lead to stop them from moving too much. Nail clipping should be done with the dog’s happiness in mind - this may mean taking your time, offering lots of reassurance and treats, or giving them regular breaks.

Dog nails should be trimmed to be roughly in line with their toe pad when the toe pad is on the floor. The cut should be made at the same angle as the nail would sit on the floor.

What does ‘cut the quick’ mean?

This bit is about how much to trim a dog's nails. A dog’s ‘quick’ is the nerve ending that extends through the top part of your dog’s nail. When cutting a dog’s toenails you always want to make sure you’re only cutting the nail and never the quick. If you do accidentally do this, it can cause your canine a lot of pain, risk a possible infection, and also put them off paw pampering for a long time.

The trick to dog nail trimming is to do so one small clip or grind at a time. Remove a small bit then check the inside of the nail. If you can see just one solid nail color, you’re fine to clip a little bit more. When you start to see a dark or discolored circle in the middle of the nail, you know you’ve reached the end of the quick and you must stop.

Professional pet groomers almost have a sixth sense for finding the quick, but be sure to check your pup’s paws after a grooming session. If you’re a home nail cutter, regular trimming will familiarize you with where your pooch’s quick in each toe. However, even if you feel confident in dog nail cutting, continue to use the little-bit-at-a-time method as a precaution.

Tips on how to trim a dog's nails that hates it

We’ll be honest, this is a tricky one to answer! Every pup is different and if they hate having their paws touched, or any other part of grooming, it’ll be for a unique reason. Some breeds, like Huskies and German Shepherds, are more prone to make a fuss during nail trimming. Others have possibly had a bad experience, and some simply are not in the mood for nail nonsense. So, here are a few safe tricks to try if you’re dealing with a stubborn slobber-baby:

• Paw-positive reinforcement and distractions - treats and cuddles throughout the experience will help them associate it with happy things. This is easily done with puppies receiving their first nail clipping. Getting your dog used to having their feet touched is a useful part of training.
• Remain calm - if you start to panic, your pup will start to panic. Try to stay calm, coo to them, reassure them, and congratulate them after each trim.
• Don’t rush - rushing can lead to panic which can cause you or your pooch to be harmed. Take your time and feel free to stop at any point if your pup is distressed or you feel unsafe.

Chat with your vet and see if they have any recommendations. It may be your pup might need a helping hand from a vet professional if they’re putting their paws down to nail clipping. Medications can be used to relax your dog and take the worry away. 

Nail clippers vs dog nail grinder

You may have noticed how some professional pet groomers prefer to use nail clippers over a dog nail grinder. Why? Dog groomers will see several canine clients a day most days of the week - a dog nail grinder creates a lot of debris and nail dust (apparently this is a real thing) which if inhaled too much can be harmful to the groomer’s lungs.

However, for pet parents who are only caring for the pet’s paws on a monthly or longer basis, the risks associated with nail dust are much, much lower. Essentially, using nail clippers or a dog nail grinder is simply a matter of preference for your pup and you.

Some pooches aren’t phased by a form of dog nail trimming, so some pup parents use a dog nail grinder as it can help create a more accurate trim, therefore lowering the chances of clipping quickly. But, if you have a doggo who doesn’t like having their paws touch, is resistant to grooming in general, or perhaps just having a bad day, nail clippers are the best and fastest way to cut dog nails.

Remember, if your dog is seriously resisting having their dog nails trimmed, never push them to the point where you or your pooch could be in harm's way. A distressed dog can be a dangerous dog, so when in doubt contact your vet and ask if they can help offer a paw pedicure for your pup.

Meet our veterinary expert, Greg

This article has been checked by veterinarian Dr Greg Steele MA VETMB MRCVS. A mixed vet working in the UK since qualifying from Cambridge University in 2015. Greg enjoys working with all species of animals in all settings, but equally takes pride in communication and education of clients too. He lives with his wife and their cat, and enjoys a variety of sports, gardening, and the great outdoors.

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