Aussie Dog Nail Clippers? Trust The Answer

Not many pet parents enjoy trimming their dog’s nails. There’s a good chance your pup won’t particularly like it either. However, nail trimming is an essential part of maintaining your dog’s health and hygiene and should be done on a regular basis.

Preparing Your Puppy

Regardless of the nail trimming method you choose, you will need to treat your dog’s paws. Therefore, it is ideal to get your pooch used to touching their paws from a young age.

That’s not to say that an older dog can’t learn new tricks! If your dog is older and not used to having their feet treated, you can certainly introduce them to this process. It takes patience, but you may be able to desensitize a dog to having their claws clipped.

However, if your dog is showing signs of intense anxiety, stress, or aggression, you should stop and consult a certified canine behavior specialist. It’s better to play it safe and speak to a professional who can help change this behavior.

Why is nail care necessary?

Your puppy’s nails should be trimmed frequently enough to keep the nails short at all times.

Failure to take care of your dog’s claws can damage your dog’s legs and cause pain when walking. When the nails are long enough to repeatedly touch the ground, they push back into the nail bed and onto the toe joint. Over time, this can realign the joints of the dog’s front leg, making your four-legged companion more prone to injury.

A dog’s nails also help provide traction when your four-legged companion is walking or running up an incline. If the claws grow too long, your dog’s natural sense of balance can be affected.

When your dog’s nails grow too long, they are more prone to cracking or breaking, which can be painful and, in some cases, can lead to infection.

What is nail care?

There are two main ways to groom a dog’s nails. One is to use a tool known as a trimmer or clipper. The other is to use a motorized tool called a grinder.

There are different types of nail clippers:

Guillotine-style clippers work by inserting the dog’s nail through a hole and squeezing the handle. A single blade cuts across the hole and trims off the excess nail. This style usually works with small to medium sized dogs. However, it may not be powerful enough to cut large, thick nails.

Work by passing the dog’s nail through a hole and squeezing the handle. A single blade cuts across the hole and trims off the excess nail. This style usually works with small to medium sized dogs. However, it may not be powerful enough to cut large, thick nails. Scissor cutters work in a similar way to scissors. The blades have small indentations to help position the dog’s nail for cutting. This clipper allows more power and is better suited for dogs with larger claws.

What is nail grinding?

Grinding is another way to groom a dog’s claws. Rather than using clippers, this requires a rotary electric tool that trims the dog’s claws with a rotating section of sandpaper-like material.

Also known as Dremel, these tools wear down the nails by friction.

Should I clip or grind my dog’s nails?

Whether you choose to clip or grind depends on your dog’s personality. Some dogs do better with clippers, while others do better with grinders. When trying to decide what’s best for your furry friend, consider the following:

Cut nails:

It’s quiet and less likely to startle a dog than the hum of the mill.

It’s faster, so the process is fast. This may work best if you have a dog that doesn’t sit still for long periods of time.

Cutting requires no power cords or batteries.

It’s easier to cut the dog’s nail end, causing bleeding.

Blades need to be replaced regularly to keep them sharp.

Nail Grinding:

It is useful for large and thick nails that are difficult to cut.

It creates smooth and rounded nails.

It is excellent for sharp-edged nails.

It is an excellent option for pets suffering from clipper anxiety.

It’s noisy and can be frightening for a dog afraid of noise.

It causes odor and dust, so you should have a mouth mask and eye protection.

Clipping your dog’s nails should be an easy process when done correctly. If you haven’t trimmed your dog’s nails, ask your veterinarian or veterinarian to give you a lesson on how to properly complete nail trimming.

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Many people have dogs that won’t let their parents clip their claws.

Although nail embellishments is nobody’s idea of ​​fun, it’s a nightmare when you have a dog that freaks out about it.

There are solutions to make nail trimming easier. These are designed to desensitize your dog against using a different nail clipper or using a Dremel instead of nail clippers.

If a dog is extremely aggressive and you’re concerned it might bite you, getting support from your GP is the best place to start.

However, if your dog is anxious or overly fidgety but not aggressive, try other options at home, such as

There are also ways to trim your dog’s nails without scissors.

If you can convince yourself that clipping your dog’s nails isn’t as bad as he thinks it will be much more convenient to trim your dog’s nails at home.

Even if you still bring your dog for nail trimming, it’s a good idea to familiarize him with the process for his sake and to ensure the safety of the person doing the trimming.

For me, four dogs mean 16 paws of nail clipping fun. Ginger was our problem child when it came to nail trimming and she has black nails which made the job even more challenging.

Some dogs don’t like having their feet touched; Ginger has lost his mind!

At first we tried to hold her paws and she cried, screamed and even nibbled the hurting hand. It took Ginger a long time to overcome her fears, but now she always wants to be first in line to get her nails trimmed.

What Are the Reasons Dogs Won’t Let You Clip Their Claws?

Abuse – so they are afraid of being touched or being held back

Past experiences were painful

You were never trained to cut your nails

Falsely restrained

The tool used to trim nails is inconvenient or scary

Not a fan of having her feet touched

Now that we know some of the reasons dogs don’t like nail trimming, let’s figure out how to get them around it.

How to trim a dog’s claws

If you don’t know how to clip your dog’s claws, you could accidentally harm your dog.

It is best to have a professional teach you, either your veterinarian or a trusted groomer.

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Detailed instructions are available online from the ASPCA, but in-person instruction is best.

Sometimes changing the type of nail clipping tool can make a big difference in your dog’s response.

There are three main types of nail clipping tools:

Scissor style guillotine nail grinder

scissor style

This is the style we use.

I feel like I have more control of the trimmer and my dogs are more comfortable with the scissor style than the guillotine style.

The scissors style can cut the nails side to side or top to bottom.

Recommended Clipper – Safari Professional dog nail trimmer

guillotine

This trimmer cuts from the bottom up.

The blade comes up from the base of the trimmer to cut the nail.

Recommended Clipper – Safari Guillotine Nail Clipper

nail grinder

A nail grinder is a small electric handheld grinder that grinds and shapes the nail.

For some dogs, the nail grinder works better than traditional clippers, but it can be more time-consuming. Note that some dogs do not like the grinder’s vibrations and sounds.

It’s important to use a nail trimmer that’s designed to trim a dog’s nails, and not a artisanal or industrial one. An industrial grinder may be too powerful and not provide the control you need.

Hemostatic powder

It’s always good to have a blood clotting powder on hand.

Even the most experienced groomer can clip a dog’s claws too short.

I never start clipping the dog’s claws without it.

Recommended Blood Stop – Four Paws Quick Blood Stopper Powder

maintenance

Regardless of which tool you like best, it is important that it is well maintained.

For the hair clipper, this means sharp blades. A dull blade on a nail clipper is like using a butter knife instead of a steak knife. Using a dull blade can cause discomfort to your dog.

For the nail grinder, maintenance means changing the Dremel bit when it wears out or making sure the grinding wheel is in good condition and replacing it when needed.

How do I desensitize my dog ​​to nail clipping?

Desensitization is the best solution to changing your dog’s response to nail clipping.

If you’ve never desensitized your dog before, you know the process takes time and patience, but it’s rewarding in the end.

Please note that I am not a certified dog trainer and I do NOT recommend attempting this if your dog is showing extreme fear or aggression.

If your dog is either exceedingly anxious or aggressive, you should seek professional help before attempting to desensitize your dog yourself.

Things you need to desensitize your dog to claws

Great treats! The more anxious your dog is, the more awesome the treats need to be

nail clippers

Training clicker if you use one

A cheerful but calm voice and a calm demeanor. If you’re nervous, tense, or anxious, your dog will notice and often reflect the same emotions. Take a deep breath, meditate, or visualize a positive outcome. Do whatever it takes to bring a calm presence to this exercise.

I can’t stress that last point enough!

Your attitude, energy, emotions, whatever you want to call it, is your most powerful training tool. Whether it is a positive or negative tool is up to you.

Notice I didn’t list any blood stops?

This is because we will not be cutting nails during this exercise.

The first exercise

Grab your high quality treats and nail clippers. Oh, and don’t forget your dog. Place the clippers within sight of your dog but at a comfortable distance. We don’t want to change their negative reaction into a positive one. We’re trying to avoid a negative reaction to the trimmer overall. When your dog looks at the clipper, give him a treat and praise him in a happy but calm voice. You should not spend high energy on it, because then you have to try to cut the claws of a very excited dog, which is also not fun. If your dog tries to leave the room, crouches, or reacts negatively, you are too close to the trimmer. Move the clipper farther away. Once your dog has left the room, try leading him back with a treat. If your dog refuses to return to the area, don’t force him. Pause the exercise and start again later at a greater distance. Repeat this exercise daily, slowly moving toward the clippers each time. The clipper does not move closer to the dog. The dog approaches the clipper at its comfort level. Continue until your dog is comfortable with you holding the trimmer. If your dog creeps up on you anxiously, your dog is not ready for the next exercise.

I always show my dogs the clippers and then call them to me.

I don’t hide the clippers from them because it can create suspicion. Also, I let them come to me so I know they’ll be comfortable and won’t feel cornered when we start.

This exercise is intended to create a positive association with the clippers themselves.

If your dog doesn’t care about clippers, this exercise is relatively quick. The goal of this exercise is to get your dog to feel calm and relate to seeing the clippers when given a treat. Once you’ve mastered this (which means you’ll get a consistently positive response), you can move on to the next exercise.

tips

Don’t force your dog into awkward situations.

Force your dog into awkward situations. Keep workouts short for 5 minutes

Slow down. It’s not about completing each step as quickly as possible

Keep the workouts positive

Skip workouts when you’re in a bad mood; All things with desensitization must be positive.

The next exercise and every exercise after that

Each time your dog completes a level, your next exercise will be the next step you would take in declawing.

The aim is to link each step with a positive association.

After your dog has mastered the first exercise, move on to the next stage of nail trimming, then the next, then the next as your dog adjusts to the previous stages.

Have your dog sit or lie down with you while you hold the clippers. Touch/hold/raise paw near clipper – This depends on whether your dog cares when their paws are touched. Don’t skip steps and don’t combine too many. Touch the paw with the clippers. Put the hair clipper on the nail without cutting it. Add Blood Stop to your list of things you need for this exercise! Cut off only the tips of the nails. I start with a nail, then finish the exercise and walk away. You can do another nail in about half an hour, but don’t rush the process

Eventually, you’ll be able to trim all of the nails on one paw with any exercise, and before you know it, you and your dog will be nail-trimming pros.

Nail cutting teamwork

Sometimes trimming the nails is more manageable with help

It can be helpful to have one person clip the dog’s claws and the other person distract/reward the dog with treats.

Another option is to pick up and hold the dog.

Daisy has always been great at getting her nails trimmed, but when her arthritis set in it became painful when I lifted her front paw.

Now my husband picks her up and holds her, dangling her legs below. Then I squat down and trim her nails while my husband holds her.

Other times it’s nice to have help when your dog needs to be restrained. Some dogs get nervous or overly excited and need a firm but gentle hug to keep them in place.

If your dog is aggressive, I recommend seeking professional help or using a secure, soft-sided muzzle.

Conclusion

There are many ways to meet the challenge of nail trimming, and sometimes the easiest way is to hire a trained professional to do it.

But if you want to do it yourself, we hope these tips can help you and your dog.

A solid pet care plan includes more than just bathing and brushing your pet. To protect the owner and the animal, the claws/claws should be trimmed regularly. Clipped claws are a clear sign of your pet’s health and hygiene. For squeamish owners, veterinary services and professional groomers will do the job, but nail trimming is an easy procedure when done properly.

Because declawing can cause anxiety in many pets, it is recommended that owners begin handling their pet’s feet and clipping their nails from a young age to help them become accustomed to the process.

How often should I clip my pet’s nails?

Unlike their outdoor counterparts, indoor pets’ claws require more frequent grooming. Animal claws will naturally wear down with activity, but when kept indoors the claws will need to be trimmed more frequently as they are less active and generally walk on softer surfaces.

Cats can try to solve this problem by sharpening their claws – on your sofa, carpet or curtain. A sign that your dog’s nails are too long is an audible click when your pet walks on hard surfaces.

Dogs need to clip their nails regularly, about every 3-4 weeks; However, it is common for owners to wait too long between trimmings, which can lead to a number of health problems for the animal. For cats, routine nail trimming every 10-14 days will keep your pet healthy. Birds, rabbits, guinea pigs and other exotic small pets also need their claws clipped regularly, something most people are unaware of.

Cannot cut my pet’s claws

Consistent nail care is not just cosmetic. In some cases, nails can cause pain and cause irreversible damage to the animal.

When people think of the damage a pet’s claws can cause, most think of scratches on hardwood floors, carpet snags, and claw marks on furniture. However, long nails cause potential problems for animals – a splayed foot, reduced traction, deformed feet and even injured tendons over time. When long nails hit the ground, it applies force to the foot and leg structure. This force can potentially lead to arthritis and ongoing pain.

The growth pattern of a dog’s nails forms a curved shape. If left untrimmed, the claws will eventually curl under the dog’s paws and dig into the skin, causing pain when walking. Anyone who has ever experienced an ingrown toenail can attest to the pain it will cause. To compensate for this discomfort, dogs put more weight on their hind paws than their front paws. This can lead to muscle and joint pain, back pain and eventually arthritis.

Longer nails can also snag carpets and snag on fabrics. The nail’s outer enamel can wear down when trying to pry your foot if it gets caught. This can cause the inside of the nail, known as the nail, to become exposed. Once exposed, potential injury and infection are likely.

Although their veterinarian recommends clipping cats’ claws, many pet owners don’t do it. To be fair, it can be a difficult experience for both the owner and the animal. In some cases, cats can be so destructive that owners will unclaw them, leaving the cat defenseless if caught outside or in an altercation with another animal. The solution is to reduce the cat’s ability to take damage from scratching by trimming their nails regularly. By trimming a cat’s claws, you may be able to prevent nail damage to furnishings by reducing their urge to claw.

How to trim your pet’s claws

The nail consists of two parts: the living, pink nail and the hard, outer material known as the shell. The quick supplies blood to the nail and runs to its core. The nerves in the core cause bleeding and pain when cut. Regular trimming means the quick recedes at the end, creating a short quick. A short quick is better for your pet’s well-being and easy to care for.

There are different types of nail trimmers designed specifically for your pet. However, you can use the type that you are most comfortable with or that works best for your pet. If you’ve never trimmed your pet’s nails before, your veterinarian or veterinary technician can teach you a lesson on how to do it properly.

To trim your pet’s claws at home, follow these steps:

Holding one paw firmly but gently, place your thumb on the ball of one toe and your index finger on the tip of the toe against the skin above the nail, making sure no fur of the animal gets in the way. To lengthen the nail, gently press your thumb up and back on the pad while pushing your index finger forward. Just trim the tip of the nail straight. Be sure to include the wolf’s claws on the inside of the paw. To avoid hitting the wound where the blood vessels are, do not cut past the curve of the nail.

With gentle practice, you’ll become a pro and your pet will become comfortable with the procedure; However, if the process is still causing problems, Advanced Care Veterinary Hospital is here to support your pet’s needs.

Common causes of nail disease in dogs are bacterial, fungal, or infection. In general, a nail and nail bed disorder in dogs can be any abnormality or disease affecting the animal’s claw or nearby area. There are a variety of causes of nail pain in dogs, the following is just information about a few.

A dog’s nails consist of two main parts, one part is known as the live pink quick which runs through the core of the nail and supplies it with blood. The second part is called the shell, which is made up of the hard outer layer of the nail. Similar to a human nail, a dog’s damaged or injured nail will cause pain.

One way a nail can cause pain to a dog is during the trimming process if not groomed regularly. This is because the living pink quickly recedes from the ends of our doggie nails when they are trimmed regularly. If not, it runs to the end of the nail, causing bleeding and discomfort when the nail is finally groomed.

To put this in perspective, imagine you’re clipping your nails with nail scissors and clipping your nail too short. The stabbing pain you feel when you cut your nail is similar to the pain your dog feels when we quickly cut off his living pink.

Like humans, dogs also have sensory receptors in their nails, and when these receptors are damaged, messages are sent to areas of the dog’s brain, including pain receptors, which in turn cause the dog to feel pain. The sensation of pain is a defense mechanism for animals that sends them a message to stop or change whatever they are doing as it is not beneficial to the overall life and functioning of the organism.

Not only does clipping a dog’s nails too short cause pain, but letting them grow too long can be even more painful. For example, long nails can cause a dog to lose traction in their paw, making it easier for them to slip and fall, causing additional pain than the nail alone.

In addition, nails that are too long can damage the tendons in our pooch’s feet, causing them to deform as the nail puts pressure on the foot when walking. Overall, it is clear that our dogs can feel pain in their nails and therefore it is our job to prevent the pain from occurring by taking care of our pooches.

Do your pooch’s nails look a little too long for your liking?

Just like humans, dogs need a good nail trimming from time to time!

Today we’re going to show you how to trim your dog’s nails with a guillotine nail clipper – let’s get started!

Guillotine against others

There are a few types of dog nail clippers – the main competitors are guillotine nail clippers versus scissor clippers.

Guillotine nail clippers are preferred for smaller dogs with thinner nails (most guillotine clippers aren’t fast enough to cut a large dog’s thicker nails). With a guillotine clipper, a single blade comes down and snips the end of your dog’s nail (similar to a guillotine). Guillotine clippers are easier to use for people with hand pain or arthritis.

Scissor shears, also known as Miller’s Forge clippers, consist of two blades that come together and clip your dog’s claws. The squeezable handle allows for more power, making this clipper better suited for thicker claws on large dogs.

Commercial nail cutting tools

The materials you will need include:

Guillotine nail clippers. Make sure your clippers are high quality and sharp. We recommend the Safari Guillotine Nail Clippers for home grooming. Keep in mind that while guillotine nail clippers work well for smaller dogs, larger dogs with thicker claws are better off with scissor clippers (aka Miller’s Forge clippers).

treats for dogs. Having treats on hand will help distract your pooch and show him that clipping nails can be a good, positive experience.

Hemostatic powder. Styptic powder can be used to quickly stop bleeding in case you accidentally quickly cut your dog’s claws.

Nail file / grinder. After trimming, a nail file or dog nail grinder should be used to give your dog’s nails a smooth, rounded edge. Sharp nail ends could get caught in carpets, bedding or toys!

How to cut your dog’s claws with the Guillotine Clipper

Step 1. Get your dog used to the guillotine clipper

Before you even think about clipping your dog’s claws, you need to warm him up for these scary-looking guillotine nail clippers.

To start, just sit next to your dog and start manipulating his paws, giving him treats and giving him praise as you go.

After that, show your dog the clippers, have them sniff the clippers, and finally push the clippers (without clipping nails), all with plenty of treats and encouragement.

This is a slow process and can take a week (or two if your dog is nervous). Wait for your dog to become familiar with the clipper before proceeding.

Step 2. Unclip!

Once your dog is relaxed and calm near the guillotine clipper, you can start clipping.

Start by trimming just the smallest part of your dog’s nail. Starting small ensures success and makes it very unlikely that you’ll hit your dog’s nail anytime soon. The wound is the vein that runs through your dog’s nail, and cutting it can be painful and cause bleeding.

In dogs with light-colored nails, avoiding the nail is easy because you can see the nail right inside the nail. Dogs with darker nails are more difficult.

To be safe, just clip off a very small section of the nail to start. Once you get into the habit of clipping your pup’s nails, the quick will begin to shrink back, making it easier to clip more nails.

Place the nail trimmer around your dog’s nails with the fixed plate facing your dog. Cut in one quick, solid motion. Then on to the next nail!

Step 3. Invite the praise!

After your first successful nail clipping session, pile on the treats and the praise. Make this a great experience for your dog!

Step 4. File off the edges of the nail

Use your nail file or dog nail grinder to trim your pooch’s nails so they don’t get caught on clothing, bedding, or toys. Pinched nails can crack and be very painful, so don’t skip this step!

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Oh no, I’m cutting my dog ​​fast!

So you quickly cut your dog’s claws? Fear not, it’s easy – even professional groomers accidentally cut the marrow every now and then.

While your dog is giving you a hurt, betrayed, and bleeding look all over the kitchen, don’t be too desperate. Getting the quick cut is similar to a bad paper cut – your dog won’t be happy, but he won’t die. His nails should stop bleeding after 4-6 minutes, or use styptic powder to stop bleeding immediately.

While there’s no permanent injury or severe pain from trimming the nails, this whole process can really freak Fido out, and you may have more trouble getting him interested in the next nail trimming session.

Have you used a guillotine nail clipper to trim your dog’s claws? How did it go? Share your experiences in the comments!

Thank you for the question. I’m sorry to hear about the issues you are experiencing, but I am pleased to hear that you are concerned about the well-being and emotional health of your dogs. Yes, a few rough nail clipping sessions take an emotional toll and sometimes it can take a while for the anxiety to wear off. When snuggling with your dogs on the couch, occasionally touch their feet. Handle the nails gently and touch them just to get them used to being treated without being trimmed. Then try some of the tips found here: https://wagwalking.com/grooming/trim-a-dogs-nails-without-clippers Sessions may need to be short at first to allow your dogs to get used to the atmosphere be able. You can also call your vet and ask for their opinion on what to do. Much luck!

Whether your pup is super chilled or will do almost anything to avoid you when it’s time for their nail clippings, you want the best possible dog nail clippers for pain-free grooming.

“Regular nail trimming is important to your dog’s health, well-being and routine grooming, as a dog with nails that are too long can cause a lot of discomfort, pain and sometimes infection,” says Ashley Ann Odom. a Certified Master Groomer and owner of Diamonds at Ruff Grooming Salon and Spa in Lincoln Park, New Jersey.

While how often you need to trim your dog’s nails will depend on their activity level and environment, a good rule of thumb is to check their nails at least once a month. If you’re behind on nail trimmings or your paws rarely touch the pavement, you might want to check them out more often.

If you’re admittedly afraid of nail trimming for fear of hitting the nails (the soft tissues and nerves in a dog’s nails), or don’t want to further traumatize an already shy rescue dog, you have the right nail trimming equipment and know how to use it can make a big difference. But with so many different options and thousands of reviews to sift through, the choice can be overwhelming.

To make the process easier, we asked a professional dog groomer to share her top picks. We have also researched for you important factors such as safety, durability, affordability and ease of use. Here’s our guide to what to look for in dog nail clippers, as well as our top product picks for the best dog nail clippers you can buy.

What to look for in dog nail clippers

At first glance, dog nail clippers might seem pretty simple, but then you see how many different options there are to consider. Here are a few things to consider when shopping so you can find the most effective pair of dog clippers for your pup’s needs.

Blade quality: “First and foremost, when looking for a nail clipper set, look to invest in a pair that’s sturdy and sharp,” says Odom. Stainless steel clippers with durable features allow you to clip through your dog’s claws without applying unnecessary pressure that can cause pain and discomfort to your dog.

Size and type: “Obviously, you also want to make sure the clippers are appropriate for your dog’s size,” says Odom. In general, dual-blade clippers are a better choice for large breed dogs with thick, hard-to-clip nails, while guillotine-style clippers allow for quick and easy clipping for small to medium-sized dogs.

For dogs of all sizes, Odom recommends nail grinders, which reduce the risk of trimming your dog’s nails too short and hitting those highly sensitive individuals quickly. You can also smooth nails to make less clicking noise when your pup shuffles across hardwood and tile floors.

Ease of Use: For those of us with dogs who may never enjoy doing our claws, safe dog nail clippers are a top priority. In this case, look for user-friendly features that allow for a quick and precise cut, such as non-slip handles, nail guards and a safety lock.

Reviews: Many online retailers list reviews from verified customers that can help you get an idea of ​​what using dog nail clippers is really like in real life. Pet parents are often happy to offer advice on how to help shy dogs adapt to specific nail clippers, whether the clipper is powerful enough to handle ultra-tough nails, or what sizing options work best for specific dog breeds or weight.

Best dog nail clippers: dog groomer recommendations

While there are many options for dog nail clippers, many groomers, customers and veterinarians agree that these are some of the most effective and highest quality picks on the market.

Whether you have a fiery Chihuahua or a shy Great Dane, there are a pair of dog nail clippers that can work for you. Here are our top picks for the best dog nail clippers, according to thousands of happy customers and one master groomer.

Our top 7 picks

All featured products are selected at the discretion of the author. However, Great Pet Care may receive a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Best Dog Nail Clippers: Overall Winner

Our choice: Safari Professional stainless steel nail clippers for dogs

Style Scissors Breed Types Small to Medium, Large Material Stainless Steel Blades, Rubberized Handles Sizes and Dimensions (L x W x H) 0.5 x 2.55 x 10.5 inches Blade Curved Age Range All Life Stages

Odom’s personal favourite, Safari Professional Nail Trimmers are reasonably priced and come in two sizes for small to medium and large dogs. “They’re particularly good for large dogs because of their sturdiness and because of the thicker steel offered in this model,” she says. With rubberized handles for a firm grip and a safety guard to prevent cutting too far, these trimmers also score in terms of user-friendliness.

highlights

Stainless steel.

Strong, sharp blade.

security protection.

Grippy handles.

things to consider

The clicking sound may bother some dogs.

Example buyer rating: “There is nothing wrong with these nail clippers. Both edges of the bypass blades cut cleanly and with equal pressure on both sides of the nail, much better and less painful than the single blade on another clipper I’ve used. I have a veteran Labrador with big, horny nails and a puppy with fast-growing, softer nails. The tool masters both without any problems. Great buy for the money.”

Safest nail clipper for dogs

Our pick: Zen Clipper dog nail trimmer

Style Guillotine Breed types All Material Stainless steel blade, padded handles Sizes and dimensions (L x W x H) 8.5 x 5.5 x 0.25 inches Blade tapered Age range All life stages

Safety is definitely a top priority when it comes to trimming your dog’s nails. Zen Clipper really has that covered with its tapered, patent-pending design. The tapered shape of the blade makes it almost impossible to quickly cut your dog’s as long as it’s the right size for your pet. This hair clipper features a sharp stainless steel blade that shears nails and doesn’t crush them. These are small and easy to use, whether you opt for the finger holes or clamp your hand around the handles.

highlights

Unique cone-shaped design for a safe cut.

Available in seven different sizes to suit all pet types – XXS to XXL.

Ergonomic, non-slip handle.

Small size makes them less intimidating to pets and easy to handle.

Come with a lifetime guarantee.

things to consider

With multiple size options, finding the right size can be difficult. But Zen Clipper will replace your order for free if you choose the wrong size.

It may take some time for dogs to get used to the shape of these clippers. Take it slow and steady at first.

Exemplary buyer rating: “The thing is wonderful! It doesn’t make a “click” sound when clipping. This is very important to me because my dog ​​is very shy about the whole thing. You can also use this nail clipper from both sides, making it the easiest way to reach the nail. it also makes a clean cut. Another really cool thing is that you can email Zen Clipper and they will send you a card to measure your dog’s (cat, bird… whatever) nail diameter so you can get the right size . It seems a bit expensive but it’s worth it. The stress it saves me & my dog ​​is worth every penny. AND they will exchange it for free.”

The best budget nail clippers for dogs

Our pick: Millers Forge nail clippers for dogs

Style Scissors Breed Types Medium to Large Material German Stainless Steel Sizes & Dimensions (L x W x H) 6.5″ x 2″ x 0.63″ Blade Curved Age Range Adult Dogs

Just want some dog nail clippers to get the job done? If you’re new to clipping your dog’s nails or aren’t ready to drop the big bucks on a fancy dog ​​nail clipper, Miller’s Forge is a great entry-level pair for large and medium-sized dogs. They have strong stainless steel blades, a safety catch, and bright orange handles (a big plus if you tend to misplace these things!).

highlights

Strong and sharp stainless steel blades.

Safety lock.

Very affordable.

things to consider

Little! All in all, these clippers get solid reviews and are recommended by many groomers and vets.

Sample Buyer Rating: “I have worked and have worked in the veterinary field for over 5 years. These are the clippers we use at [my] clinic and I’ve come to love them […] if you’re just looking for a trusty clipper this one works great.”

Best nail grinder for dogs

Our pick: Dremel 7300-PT 4.8V cordless dog nail grinder

Style Grinder Breed Types All Material High Density Plastic Sizes & Dimensions (L x W x H) 8.15 x 1.69 x 0.98 inch Blade No Age Group All Life Stages

If traditional dog nail clippers just haven’t worked for you, maybe it’s time to try dog ​​nail grinders. Dremel is considered the top choice for rotary tools, and many groomers say they also make the best dog nail grinder. The Dremel 7300-PT is cordless and comes with two different speeds, an accessory kit and an easy-to-use wall charger. “While it can be a costly investment for home care, this particular brand has longer battery life than most other brands,” says Odom.

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Wireless.

Comes with five grinding wheels and a plug charger.

Two-speed grinder (6,500 rpm or 13,000 rpm).

Rechargeable 3 hour battery.

Backed by a 2 year guarantee.

things to consider

Noise or vibration can bother some dogs.

Can come with a learning curve if you are new to use.

Sample Buyer Rating: “I’ve been using [this] for several weeks and now I really enjoy clipping [my dog’s] nails. He’s a bit afraid of it, but I think he’ll get used to it. It straightens its nails and files them away. I don’t think I’ll ever have to go back to nail scissors with this thing.”

Best Guillotine Dog Nail Clippers

Our pick: Resco Deluxe Guillotine Dog Nail Clippers

Style Guillotine Breed types All Material Solid steel Sizes and dimensions (L x W x H) 5 x 3.75 x .63 inches Blade Micro-ground, replaceable blades Age range All life stages

If you prefer guillotine style dog nail clippers to quickly slice through your dog’s claws, you can’t go wrong with the original. Resco invented the guillotine nail clipper back in 1937 (!). Since then they have been market leaders. With non-slip handles and super-sharp blades (plus affordable replacement blade kits should yours ever dull), these clippers are easy to use and safe.

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Made in the USA.

Durable construction.

Non-slip grip.

Easily interchangeable blades.

Backed by a lifetime guarantee.

things to consider

Guillotine style can come with a learning curve if you are new to its use.

May not be strong enough for large breed dogs with thick claws.

Sample Buyer Rating: “[These] are by far the best hair clippers I’ve found. They deliver a controlled, super clean cut and are much more stable than most.”

Best nail clippers for large dogs

Our pick: Epica Professional Dog Nail Clippers

Style Scissors Breed Types All Material Stainless Steel, Rubberized Handles Sizes & Dimensions (L x W x H) 6″ x 3.38″ x 3.63” Curved Blade Age Range All Life Stages

Featuring high-quality stainless steel and semi-circular blades to keep your dog’s claws in place, Epica’s dog nail clippers get high marks from pet parents with large breed dogs like Rottweilers, Labradors, and Mastiffs. Grooved, rubberized handles are easy to hold, and many reviewers say the blade cuts through nails like butter. Even better? They come with a 100 percent lifetime guarantee. So if you are not satisfied, you can contact the manufacturer to solve the problem.

highlights

High quality stainless steel.

Strong and sharp blade.

Durable construction.

Ribbed, rubberized handle.

Lifetime Guarantee.

things to consider

The nail guard can move, making it unreliable, some reviewers say

Sample Buyer Rating: “I had a hard time trimming my 104 lb German Shepherd’s very thick nails. Several previously store-bought clippers would either splinter or chip his nails, or they just wouldn’t cut through, or he’d snap the blades or snap the clipper handle all together! These feel very sturdy and made nail trimming quick and easy with a clean cut and no splitting or chipping of the nails.”

Best nail clippers for small dogs

Our pick: Master Grooming Tools Guillotine Nail Clippers

Style Guillotine Breed Types Small Material Stainless steel, textured rubber handles, powder-coated finish Sizes and dimensions (L x W x H) 5.3 x 3 x 1 inch Blade replaceable Age range All life stages

“These are ideal for home use on smaller dogs,” says Odom. While dual-blade clippers or nail grinders are preferable for larger dogs with harder nails to trim, guillotine-style dog nail clippers are a smart choice for your little one. At just 5 inches long, they’re made for little paws, and textured rubber handles ensure you have a firm and comfortable grip so you can get the job done quickly.

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Guillotine style blade.

Textured rubber grips.

Size for small dogs.

things to consider

Guillotine style can come with a learning curve if you are new to its use.

Example buyer rating: “These are fantastic. I don’t like the scissor clippers because I feel like I have no control, slipping and hurting my puppies. On the guillotine style ones, I search, find the wick, slider and clip.”

Frequently asked questions about dog nail clippers

If you have any questions about dog nail clippers, you’ve come to the right place! Here are some helpful answers to the most common questions pet owners have about nail trimming tools.

How to use dog nail clippers?

Depending on what type of hair clipper you use, the specific technique may vary. Therefore, first check the instructions provided by your clipper manufacturer. You can also learn the basics by watching a helpful video on using dog nail clippers before you begin.

Depending on your dog’s well-being, age, and size, you may need to try different approaches. As a general guide:

Carefully isolate the nail you want to cut

If you can see the quick, position the clippers so you don’t hit it.

If you can’t see the quick, trim a little at a time to avoid hitting the quick.

Squeeze the clippers firmly but gently to trim the nail straight.

Don’t forget to trim the dewclaw, which can be hidden in the fur.

Can you trim dog nails with human clippers?

It is not recommended to use human clippers to trim a dog’s claws. Although some human nail clippers might be strong enough to pick up smaller dog nails, you’ll get a safer and easier trim if you use special dog nail clippers.

Not only are dog nails harder and thicker than human nails, they are also curved, which can make them difficult to trim. Dog nail clippers feature strong, sharp blades for a quick, clean cut with minimal effort. This is critical to a good trim…especially when your dog isn’t exactly cooperating!

Dog Nail Grinder vs Clipper: What’s the Difference?

Dog nail clippers – whether scissor or guillotine style – are cutting tools designed to trim dog nails using one or more sharp blades and a compression mechanism. Pros: Clippers are fast, effective, and inexpensive. Cons: It is possible to pinch or cut the nail with nail clippers, which is painful for dogs.

Dog nail grinders — often called “Dremels” after the largest manufacturer — are electrically powered rotary tools that abrade dog nails with abrasive material similar to sandpaper. Pros: Because grinding is more gradual than clipping, you’re less likely to hit the fast (although it’s still possible). Also, you can straighten the nail while trimming it. Cons: Grinders tend to cost more than clippers. The sound of the mill can also startle some dogs.

How often should you clip your dog’s nails?

On average, most dogs could use a nail trimming session about every three to four weeks. However, dog nails grow at different rates depending on a variety of factors — your dog’s breed, their diet, and even how much time they spend outdoors.

To find out what your dog’s trimming schedule should be, learn how to recognize when your dog’s nails are getting too long. Then, schedule regular trims to maintain an appropriate length. Dog’s claws should stick out far enough to be seen but not beyond the paw.

It’s not just about looks here. Trimming your dog’s nails regularly will prevent the nails from growing out quickly, reducing the chance of a painful cut in the future.

Should you hire a professional to clip your dog’s nails?

If you’ve just brought home your first puppy or are desperate for a safe dog nail clipper that won’t stress out your anxious dog, you know fear-free nail trimming is possible. All you have to do is find the right fit and gradually introduce your dog to the grooming process.

However, don’t hesitate to turn to experts if you find that you need additional help. “Use your better judgment when trimming your nails at home,” says Odom. “If you know your dog is fidgety or extremely anxious and you feel like you can’t get his nails secure, take him to a professional.”

Your veterinarian or groomer can help you learn how to introduce your dog to a nail trimming session to keep their nails healthy and prevent injury. In no time at all, you’ll both be enjoying (or at least putting up with) your monthly paw cleanses.

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Pet owners have been spending far more time with their dogs during the pandemic, leading some to start grooming their furry friends at home. While giving your dog a bath doesn’t require much skill, clipping your dog’s claws can seem intimidating at first. Douglas Kratt, DVM, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, said it’s safe and relatively easy to trim your dog’s nails at home. However, it is a learning curve for pet owners and something that animals need to warm up to over time. If you’re hoping to try your hand at it, navigating through the right components online can be overwhelming. We asked the experts on how to trim your dog’s nails at home and found some of the best dog nail trimmers on the market right now.

The best nail trimmers for dogs

When it comes to choosing the right tool for your pet, you can ask your vet if they have any recommendations before you go shopping, Kratt says. He also noted that there are different sizes of clippers and grinders for dogs of different sizes. For example, Kratt would not use the same tool on a Chihuahua as he would on a Labrador Retriever.

Here are some top-notch dog nail trimmers to consider from Shopping reader-favorite retailers like Amazon and Chewy.

These nail clippers have an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 32,000 reviews on Amazon. They’re made with sharp stainless steel blades to cut thicker nails on medium and large dogs and they come with a built in safety stop to prevent you from cutting nails too short. The clipper also comes with a nail file that is stored in the handle.

Paws & Pets nail clippers have an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 300 reviews at Walmart. They are fitted with a blade that has a 45 degree angle to prevent you from quickly nicking and cutting too close to your dog. The clipper also features a textured, ergonomic handle with a non-slip rubber grip to give you a firm grip when clipping your dog’s nails.

Safari’s dog nail trimmers have an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 900 reviews on Chewy. They come in two sizes: Small/Medium and Medium/Large. The trimmers have a double blade with a tension spring that helps you make a precise cut and they are also equipped with a safety stop.

These nail clippers have an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 1,100 reviews on Amazon. They feature a pliers-like design and a spring to help you make a clean cut. The clippers have a built in safety stop that can be positioned when you wish to use it to prevent over clipping the nails.

Zen Clipper nail trimmers have an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 300 reviews on Amazon. They are equipped with an adjustable blade that limits the amount of claws to trim, allowing you to use the same clipper on different sized dogs. To adjust the blade, you can use the trimmer’s thumb wheel and move the blade from 11 millimeters at the widest setting and 2 millimeters at the narrowest setting.

These nail clippers have an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 300 reviews on Amazon. They feature an adjustable safety guide that allows you to change the depth of the blade. The clippers have a thick textured handle that you can grab while clipping, and FURminator says it’s coated in antimicrobial plastic to reduce the build-up of germs and bacteria.

This is how you make it easy for your dog to have its claws clipped

When pet owners take their puppies to their first visit to the vet, Kratt says he tells them to play with their dog’s feet. This helps desensitize dogs to handling their paws. At first, Kratt said you should barely lose any weight if you clip your dog’s nails — and give him a treat afterwards. Repeat this a few times a week.

“I want it to be a positive experience for dogs, not a wrestling match,” Kratt said. “We want to continue to reinforce the behavior so that it happens naturally over time.”

“Jackpot” your dog while you trim his claws to get him used to it. “Jackpotting” is an animal training technique where you give them a reward, like special treats or food, when they exhibit a desired behavior, like walking. B. staying still or letting them hold their paws while you clip their claws. Kratt also suggests giving dogs something treats they don’t get every day, like peanut butter (no artificial sweetener) or cheese. He said that rewarding dogs with one of these rarer items allows them to focus on it rather than having their claws clipped as well.

How often should you clip your dog’s nails?

Overall, you should trim your dog’s nails when necessary. The time between trims varies. For example, dogs that get a lot of exercise or walk a lot tend to have worn nails quite often, so they may need to trim their nails less often. Dogs’ nails also grow at different rates, so what’s right for one dog may not be right for another.

Tips for clipping your dog’s nails and what to avoid

If you’ve never clipped your dog’s nails or have questions about which tool to use, Kratt recommends speaking to your veterinarian before trying it at home. In general, he said that one of the most common mistakes people make when trimming their dogs’ nails is surprisingly getting frustrated. You should never punish your dog if he doesn’t want to have his nails clipped or doesn’t cooperate with you, he noted. If trimming your dog’s nails at home is difficult, it is best to take them to a professional such as a groomer or veterinarian.

Before trimming your dog’s nails, be sure to locate the nail in the nail, which supplies blood to the nail and runs through the core, according to the American Kennel Club. When the quick is cut, it bleeds because it’s a bundle of nerves and blood vessels, Kratt explained. It’s easier to see the leash if your dog has clear or yellow nails rather than black or brown nails. As a general rule, and to avoid complications, he added, never trim your dog’s nails shorter than two to five millimeters from the quick.

“Similar to humans, if we cut our nails too short, it’s uncomfortable,” Kratt said.

If you give your dogs a quick cut while clipping their nails, he suggested putting styptic powder on the nail to stop bleeding. If you don’t have a styptic powder at home, Kratt advises his customers to use baking flour.

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Do your pooch’s nails look a little too long for your liking?

Just like humans, dogs need a good nail trimming from time to time!

Today we’re going to show you how to trim your dog’s nails with a guillotine nail clipper – let’s get started!

Guillotine against others

There are a few types of dog nail clippers – the main competitors are guillotine nail clippers versus scissor clippers.

Guillotine nail clippers are preferred for smaller dogs with thinner nails (most guillotine clippers aren’t fast enough to cut a large dog’s thicker nails). With a guillotine clipper, a single blade comes down and snips the end of your dog’s nail (similar to a guillotine). Guillotine clippers are easier to use for people with hand pain or arthritis.

Scissor shears, also known as Miller’s Forge clippers, consist of two blades that come together and clip your dog’s claws. The squeezable handle allows for more power, making this clipper better suited for thicker claws on large dogs.

Commercial nail cutting tools

The materials you will need include:

Guillotine nail clippers. Make sure your clippers are high quality and sharp. We recommend the Safari Guillotine Nail Clippers for home grooming. Keep in mind that while guillotine nail clippers work well for smaller dogs, larger dogs with thicker claws are better off with scissor clippers (aka Miller’s Forge clippers).

treats for dogs. Having treats on hand will help distract your pooch and show him that clipping nails can be a good, positive experience.

Hemostatic powder. Styptic powder can be used to quickly stop bleeding in case you accidentally quickly cut your dog’s claws.

Nail file / grinder. After trimming, a nail file or dog nail grinder should be used to give your dog’s nails a smooth, rounded edge. Sharp nail ends could get caught in carpets, bedding or toys!

How to cut your dog’s claws with the Guillotine Clipper

Step 1. Get your dog used to the guillotine clipper

Before you even think about clipping your dog’s claws, you need to warm him up for these scary-looking guillotine nail clippers.

To start, just sit next to your dog and start manipulating his paws, giving him treats and giving him praise as you go.

After that, show your dog the clippers, have them sniff the clippers, and finally push the clippers (without clipping nails), all with plenty of treats and encouragement.

This is a slow process and can take a week (or two if your dog is nervous). Wait for your dog to become familiar with the clipper before proceeding.

Step 2. Unclip!

Once your dog is relaxed and calm near the guillotine clipper, you can start clipping.

Start by trimming just the smallest part of your dog’s nail. Starting small ensures success and makes it very unlikely that you’ll hit your dog’s nail anytime soon. The wound is the vein that runs through your dog’s nail, and cutting it can be painful and cause bleeding.

In dogs with light-colored nails, avoiding the nail is easy because you can see the nail right inside the nail. Dogs with darker nails are more difficult.

To be safe, just clip off a very small section of the nail to start. Once you get into the habit of clipping your pup’s nails, the quick will begin to shrink back, making it easier to clip more nails.

Place the nail trimmer around your dog’s nails with the fixed plate facing your dog. Cut in one quick, solid motion. Then on to the next nail!

Step 3. Invite the praise!

After your first successful nail clipping session, pile on the treats and the praise. Make this a great experience for your dog!

Step 4. File off the edges of the nail

Use your nail file or dog nail grinder to trim your pooch’s nails so they don’t get caught on clothing, bedding, or toys. Pinched nails can crack and be very painful, so don’t skip this step!

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Oh no, I’m cutting my dog ​​fast!

So you quickly cut your dog’s claws? Fear not, it’s easy – even professional groomers accidentally cut the marrow every now and then.

While your dog is giving you a hurt, betrayed, and bleeding look all over the kitchen, don’t be too desperate. Getting the quick cut is similar to a bad paper cut – your dog won’t be happy, but he won’t die. His nails should stop bleeding after 4-6 minutes, or use styptic powder to stop bleeding immediately.

While there’s no permanent injury or severe pain from trimming the nails, this whole process can really freak Fido out, and you may have more trouble getting him interested in the next nail trimming session.

Have you used a guillotine nail clipper to trim your dog’s claws? How did it go? Share your experiences in the comments!