Struggling with nail trimming? You’re not alone! This is probably one of the biggest challenges we face with handling in the vet clinic, with some dogs being so worried about this uncomfortable feeling that they require sedation. Unfortunately by the time it’s scary in the clinic, the only real thing we can do as vets is use medication to reduce anxiety. However, many dedicated owners are keen to help their dogs with behavioural modification, and this is how I do it!

Start with your cooperative behaviour - it can be anything like a hand touch, chin rest, or like in this video, getting up on a platform. If your dog opts out from this behaviour, we stop the handling.

Slowly layer over the challenge. This might be starting with presenting the clippers, marking and paying. You might also include a shoulder or leg touch, marking and paying. Over time, we start to make the training look more like the finished product.

Use high quality clippers - I recommend and stock Miller’s Forge as I find them sharp, clean, and cause less pressure on the nails compared to standard guillotine clippers which can be uncomfortable. Holding the nail rather than the toes can be more comfortable, and avoid nail twisting.

Keep an eye out for the quick - when trimming we want to keep an look out for a central black circle in the nail which tells us we are getting close to the quick. Taking of a tiny bit frequently is much better than doing one big cut back every now and again.

So long as your dog’s nails are not contacting the ground that’s usually a healthy length!

If you still need help, consider booking a session with a trainer or vet who is familiar with teaching restraint and cooperative care.