How To Cut Your Dog's Toenails.

My mom cuts my nails after my bath because my nails are softer and it is easier on me!

My own version of how to cut a dog's nails.

When you get your new puppy, start to fool with their feet. For example, maybe I am watching TV and holding the puppy for some bonding time. Take that time to also start to get the dog used to having its feet held and nails done. I massage the foot and between the toes. This will get them used to having their feet held to cut nails.


Types of nail clippers:
Resco Type - guillotine style - for small to medium dogs.
Safari Claw Type - for large breed dogs.



If your dog has white nails, the quik will appear pink. Do not cut above that line! If you do, your dog's nail will bleed and be very, very painful to your pet. Also, believe it or not, a puppy never, never forgets his or her first nail trimming. If it goes good, more than likely, the next trimming will go easier the next time. But, if you quik the dog, then more than likely, they will become "touch-me-nots" when you go to pick up a foot. I give Chance a treat after each foot. That is how I started him when he was just 12wks. old. He knows what the nail trimmer looks like, and gets excited. So funny!



If your dog has dark nails, you start at the very tip, and cut it off. Look at the end of the nail, if you don't see a dark spot in the middle of the cut part, you can tip the nail again. Keep doing that until you see a dark spot in the middle of the last cut you made on the nail. ***NOTE: tipping the nail is just as it sounds. You take just the tip of the nail.***

Last but very, very important. Dewclaws. Any reputable breeder has the dewclaws removed from their puppies before they are sold, except for the Great Pyrenees and the Briard, as AKC standards call for them to have the dews intact. Always trim the dewclaws on your dog. If neglected, they will grow around and back into the pad of the dewclaw.

My suggestion is to purchase a bottle of nail coagulant, most common is Kwik Stop. You can get it online at any of the Petsmarts, Petco, etc...I think that Petmart at the Target Shopping Center, Merritts Ck., Barboursville, WV may have it, or something like it. I hope this information helps.