Clip a Dog's Nails

When you are trimming your dog's nails you need to be careful not to cut the vein in the nail. It is better to take a little off your dog's nail than to cut too deep.

If your dog does not like you handling his paws, you can start to train your dog to accept his paws being handled. This can be done with some treats. An easy way to do this is to hold a treat close to your dog's nose as you handle his paws. You are trying to get your dog to associate the treats with handling his paws. You want to make it a positive experience.

Once your dog accepts you handling his paws, use the clippers to take just a little of the nail off. Be careful not to cut the quick.

Once you have cut your dog's nails you can use a file to wear down the sharp edges. Taking your dog for a walk also will help take off any sharp edges.