Do you dread clipping your dogs
nails? Don't worry you are not alone. Even though it's not much
fun most dog owners will have to make nail clipping part of
their regular grooming.
To clip your dogs nails you will need some basic equipment that
you can pick up at any good pet supply store. Don't try to make
do with human clippers. Special dog nail clippers have a
different shape and are specially designed to make the clipping
as fast and painless as possible. There are other items you can
buy to make it easier to trim your dog's nails too - various
products that encourage the blood clotting process are very
useful in case of messy clipping accidents.
There are many variations on the best way to clip your dogs
nails. In general you will want to start with prolonged
desensitization of your dogs feet. This will allow your dog to
get used to having his paws handled regularly and will make it
easier to have a calm clipping session.
When clipping your dogs nails for the first time its important
to ask someone who knows how to do it to show you. You can get
many instructions and even some excellent illustrated
instructions on how to clip your dogs nails by watching someone
else clip your dogs nails. This will give you a chance to ask any
questions you might have. If your dog has dark nails (as many
do) you will want to watch to get an idea of where your dogs
"quick" is located. Most veternarians will clip your dogs nails
for you and this is obviously the best way to learn.
Starting young increases the chances of having a dog who doesn't
mind having his nails trimmed. Puppies generally won't need to
have their nails clipped but even if you only bring the clippers
up to his paws and "play clip then" he will learn that it's just
a normal part of life.
Don't clip your dogs nails until you are completely sure what
you are doing. Not only will your dog sense your
anxiety but he will most probably make things difficult for
you.
Many people find that one of the best ways to ensure a calm and
easy nail clipping session is by walking the dog before you
start with the clipping. Tire your dog out well and he might not
be able to make as much of a fuss as he'd like.
Some people resort to using tranquilizers to make nail clipping
easier for their dogs and them. This really shouldn't be
necessary with some foresight. Even the simple act of massaging
your dogs paws for a few minutes every day to desensitize your
dog to being touched there.
Of course the most important thing you can do to make nail
clipping easier is to use treats liberally.
How to Clip a Dogs Nails