You might be excited about the new toenail clipper that you bought for your dog, only to be frustrated when he starts biting you with every attempt you take. This aversion to nail cutting and trimming might have resulted from a painful experience in the past. It can be challenging, but you can make this task easier for you and your pet with the appropriate knowledge and care.
The “quick” is the most important thing to know when you’re cutting your dog’s nails. This part is behind the natural curve of their nail. You must not trim or cut beyond the quick because it’s filled with nerves and blood vessels. This means that when you cut your dog’s toenails up to this part, bleeding will start. This can be a harrowing and traumatic experience for dogs.
If you’re a bit worried about cutting through the quick, there are three ways to work around this. The first is to leave nails a little longer. You can also opt to have your dog’s nails filed. Lastly, having a local veterinarian or professional grooming center do this for you is a good option.
Another winning technique to successfully cut your dog’s nails is to help them get accustomed to the clipper first. Let your dogs be familiar with the way the clipper smells and sounds. Whenever you’re clipping their nails, provide treats and stroke their hair gently to help them get through this stressful process.