Moderate to Difficult

If your dog is not used to having their nails clipped, this could prove to be more difficult.

A gradual approach at nail trimming is usually best for all parties involved. Begin the process by gently touching your dog's paw. Most dogs will pull their paws away. Every day you will need to make a point to grasp your dog's paws while they are in a calm state. With time and patience your dog will eventually be comfortable with you grasping their paws. Gradually you may start gently touching thier nails, one at a time.

Once your dog is comfortable with you touching their nails, you will want to introduce your dog to the nail clippers. Leave them near the dog and let them get used to the smell and appearance of the clippers. When your dog is accepting of the clippers and you touching their nails you are ready to start the acutal nail trimming.

With good treats next to you, pick one nail and shorten it little by little. Be sure to stop before you get to the quick. If you cannot see the quick, or are unsure where it ends, stop trimming before the nail begins to curve down. If you clip into the quick, you will know because the dog will likely yelp and begin to bleed. Stay calm and apply a cotton ball to the end of the nail to stop the bleeding. If your dog flinches or pulls away, let them go and try the next day on another nail.

Repeat this process until all nails have been trimmed. Be sure to check for the dew claw.