Skip to main content

PawTracks may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Cutting your dog’s nails can be easy — here’s how

Learning how to cut dog nails might look easy, but actually trying it is another story. Not only do you have to know what you’re doing, but your dog needs to be calm, cool, and collected, too… which is easier said than done.

With some tips and the right tools, however, dog nail trims can be a breeze. All you really need is a decent canine understanding and the right strategies for redirecting your dog’s nervous energy — two tools we’ll teach you right here. It’s up to you to decide which techniques might be the most worthwhile, but — remember — it’s your dog who decides what helps when everything is said and done. With some or even all of these tricks, though, they’re sure to feel at ease with quick nail trims. Here’s how:

Related Videos

Have the right tools for trimming your dog’s nails

One of the keys to keeping your pup comfy during a nail trim is investing in high-quality grooming tools. Amazon’s number one seller in the dog claw-care category is the Casfuy Dog Nail Grinder, with over 55,000 reviews (with a 4.5 average score out of 5).

This grinder is rechargeable and easy to hold, making it perfect for use at nearly a moment’s notice. It’s nice and quiet, too, so your dog won’t have a loud sound stressing her out while you’re trying to focus on her nails. Grinding nails can take a bit longer than cutting, but many pets and owners prefer this method.

Another option is traditional nail clippers, which often look like a large pair of pliers. A reliable pair like these dog nail clippers from Safari will allow you to grip and cut your dog’s nails with ease. With the addition of a safety stop, you won’t have to worry about injuries either. Of course, you should always learn how to use your new grooming tools before trying them out on your dog, but the results will be worth the work.

a dog lies down while a person holds their paw and a nail clipping tool

Keep them distracted

This is often one of the first strategies pet parents utilize to calm a worked-up pup, but certain distractions are likely to work better than others. Getting to know your dog and her preferences will surely help, but there are a few foolproof tools that both pup owners and groomers swear by.

One of these miracle workers is the Aquapaw Lick Pad, which allows you to spread peanut butter or your dog’s favorite wet food on a rubber tray that you can stick nearly anywhere. While you’re trimming her nails, your pup can lick away! Another option is investing in special treats or chews that your dog only gets during grooming — something like yak milk chews or another long-lasting treat.

Introduce your dog to nail trimming

As with any new thing, there’s bound to be some hesitation. By taking baby steps, though, you give your dog the chance to get comfortable and confident in this unfamiliar situation. Of course, touching your pup’s paws on a regular basis is a great place to start before you even introduce the nail tool of your choice.

On day one, just let her sniff it! Make sure to reward her with a treat or some affection to encourage positive reinforcement. Next time she sees the tool, she’ll remember the treat. Every day, you can introduce a bit more to your dog — touch the tool to her paw, let her hear the sound it makes, try trimming the tip of one nail. Each day, you’ll get a little closer to actually trimming the nail, but by the time you do, your dog won’t even be fazed. Don’t forget the treats every step of the way!

How to hold your dog’s paw for nail trimming

When the time comes to actually clip your dog’s nails, there are a few ways to make sure you’re doing it right. It helps to keep your pup as calm as possible using the techniques listed above, of course, but knowing how to hold your dog’s paw as you grind or clip her nails is crucial.

Using your non-dominant hand, place your thumb on one toe pad and your index finger on the paw above it. The index finger should be directly behind the nail, on the skin, but not on the nail itself. Remember not to squeeze too hard, either! Now, here’s the key, according to the American Kennel Club: Gently “push your thumb slightly up and backward on the pad, while pushing your forefinger forward. This extends the nail.”

It’ll take some getting used to before you find the comfiest way to hold your pet for this process, so be patient. You’ll need to support every nail you trim, even the dewclaw, so take time to practice!

Know when to take a break

Despite being technically successful at shortening their pup’s nails, many pet parents deem the process impossible due to the high levels of stress for both them and their dog. Truthfully, if you find yourself in a spiral of frustration, you should probably call it quits for the day. Your dog knows you’re stressed out and maybe feeding off that anxiety herself.

Remember, your dog isn’t being difficult or trying to give you a hard time when it’s time to trim her nails. In fact, she’s probably even more stressed out than you are. Taking her paw away or acting afraid are both natural reactions to scary (or just unfamiliar) situations. Give your pup some time and be patient with yourselves — it’ll come in time.

Editors' Recommendations

Think big dogs breeds can’t be in an apartment? Think again
Consider these big dog breeds if you're an apartment dweller
A harlequin Great Dane sleeps on their bed on a wooden floor

When you think about an apartment-dwelling dog, you likely think of a toy or small breed. Chihuahuas, French bulldogs, Maltese, and Pomeranians are often seen walking out of high-rises and suburban rentals. There are valid reasons for this stereotype. Unlike big dog breeds, smaller pups typically don’t need as much exercise (physical activity is important for dogs, regardless of their size, though). Practically, smaller dogs take up less room.

However, don’t count out a larger dog if you live in an apartment. With the right situation, some big dog breeds may even be better roommates in an apartment than their smaller peers. Before welcoming a larger dog into your smaller space, here’s what to know.

Read more
What to do when dog obedience training stalls
These tips may help you and your pet tackle dog obedience training regression
A woman training a dog

Signing up for dog obedience training is one of the first orders of business after you bring your new addition home. Your pup may have started strong and even graduated with flying colors. They sat, stayed, and came running to you like they were on the fast track for the Westminster Dog Show. Even better, they were housebroken — no more accidents to clean. Having a well-trained dog keeps your pup safe and you less stressed. 
What happens if, all of a sudden, that goes out the window? Perhaps your dog is still in training but suddenly stops following commands or struggles to progress to the latest lessons. Your pet may also have post-dog obedience training regression days or even years after graduating. 
It can be highly troubling for dog parents, who want the best for their pets and kitchen floors. Here’s how to get Fido back on track with training. 

Reasons dog obedience training stalls
Figuring out what triggered the slowdown or regression in training is essential in mapping out appropriate next steps. There are many reasons your dog may not be taking to training anymore.

Read more
This adorable video of a cat and dog’s friendship is the cutest thing we’ve seen
You won't be able to take your eyes off this tiny kitten and her giant best pal
Cat licks her kitten on the head

We have all been on the receiving end of tiny pet kisses that warm our hearts to infinity. Sometimes sweet kitties and puppies even give each other affection by delivering plenty of happy licks to their canine or feline friend. Everyone wants their dogs and cats to get along but this pair takes it to the next level.

Watch as the most precious kitten gives her giant dog friend "smol kisses" on the Animals Being Bros subreddit posted by u/westcoastcdn19. Keep in mind this little kitten is approximately the size of the dog's head yet smooches with abandon. She's totally engrossed in her job though, and dutifully cleans him with her tiny tongue. Meanwhile, the pooch opens his eyes and indulgently lets her continue, happy that they are besties.

Read more