Tips for Safely Trimming Your Dog's Nails

Dogs have toenails that require regular trimming lest they get long and start to interfere with their ability to walk and lay down. As a dog owner, it is something that you can do yourself as part of your dog’s grooming routine as long as you pay attention to what you are doing. We have put together some tips to help you safely trim your dog's nails, but if you get into trouble, contact our team at Wooded Acres Animal Hospital in Middle Island for help from one of our veterinarians.

Make Sure Your Tools are Within Reach

When you are about to perform a nail trim on your dog, you want your dog grooming tools handy so you don't have to break your concentration or let go of your dog. Keep your toenail clippers next to the spot you plan to do a nail trim or put them in your pocket if there is nowhere convenient to put them down.

Know Where You're Going to Cut Before You Start

Each toenail on a dog's paw has a blood supply pocket. The nail grows beyond the end of the pocket and is where you want to cut. You don't want to cut into the pocket, known as the quick. If you do, it will make your dog's nail bleed. Look closely for the quick. If you can't find it, use a light source to illuminate the toenail and look for the dark spot. You want to do a nail trim in front of that dark spot.

Trim the Nail on an Angle

Hold your trimmer at an angle that is perpendicular to the blood supply or at a 45-degree angle. Place the trimmer a couple of millimeters ahead of the quick, make sure the angle is correct, then cut. A successful trim means you won't see any blood, your dog won't react, and you can give it a treat for being cooperative during the process. Your dog might not be a fan of this procedure but the treat should help your dog forgive you.

Nail Trimming and More in Middle Island, NY

If you run into difficulty while trimming your dog's nails or are looking to bring your pet in for a check-up, call our team at Wooded Acres Animal Hospital today at (631) 760-1554 to schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians.