Regular nail trimming is essential for your dog’s comfort, joint health, and mobility. Overgrown nails can cause pain, walking difficulties, and increase the risk of injury. Learn how to trim nails safely with this article.
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Our Top 10 tips for trimming your dog's nails
Prepare Tools – Gather a quality pair of dog nail clippers or a rotary grinder, styptic powder or pencil for emergencies, and treats for positive reinforcement. Keep everything within reach to avoid leaving your dog unattended.
Inspect Carefully – Examine each nail for length, thickness, and color of the quick (the blood vessel inside the nail). For dark nails, trim small amounts gradually to avoid cutting into the quick.
Desensitise their Paws – Gently handle and massage your dog’s paws before starting. Press each toe lightly and give treats to build tolerance. Repeating this regularly reduces fear and stress, making trimming smoother.
Trim only Small Amounts – Cut only the tip of the nail at a time, angling clippers slightly away from the paw to prevent splitting. Trim gradually, especially with dark nails where the quick is not visible, to avoid accidental bleeding.
Technique – Hold the paw firmly but gently, with the nail between your fingers for support. Cut in one smooth motion. For anxious dogs, trim one or two nails at a time, then pause to reward calm behaviour and prevent panic.
File Sharp Edges – After clipping, smooth any rough or sharp edges using a nail file or rotary grinder. Filing reduces snagging, splitting, or scratching and helps maintain a natural, even nail shape for comfortable walking.
Always Reward and Reassure – Offer treats, praise, and gentle petting throughout and after trimming. Positive reinforcement teaches your dog that nail care is safe, builds trust, and encourages cooperative behaviour in future sessions.
Monitor Discomfort – Watch for signs of pain, reluctance, or repeated paw withdrawal. Stop if your dog shows stress, and gradually reintroduce trimming later. Persistent resistance may indicate fear or sensitivity, requiring extra patience, desensitisation, or professional grooming assistance.
Address Bleeding Immediately – If the quick is cut, apply styptic powder, cornstarch, or gentle pressure with a clean cloth. Remain calm and reassure your dog. If your dog continues to bleed for more than 8 minutes, open Max, click Emergency and use Emergency Guidance whilst contacting your vet.
Regular Maintenance – Schedule nail trims every 3–6 weeks depending on breed, activity, and nail growth. Consistency prevents overgrowth, splitting, or injury, ensuring your dog maintains a natural gait, comfort when walking, and long-term paw health.
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Summary of this article
Maintain your dog’s nail health by preparing the right tools, desensitising paws, identifying the quick, trimming in small sections, filing sharp edges, and rewarding calm behaviour.
From the experts – Always handle paws gently, trim gradually, and reward frequently to reinforce positive behaviour. Keep styptic powder ready for emergencies, and monitor your dog for signs of discomfort or overgrowth. As always, if you have any more questions ask Max or your vet.
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