Cutting your dog's nails has to be up there as one of the most commonly feared grooming tasks but what if nail trimming could be done in a way that substantially reduced the likelihood of cutting a quick ever again? In this article I will be exploring the basics to low-stress nail trimming one paw at a time.
Here goes!
#1 - Choose Your Nail Trimming Tools Wisely
Many people spend too much time obsessing what other people think the best tools are for the job rather than what tools are best based on their dog's individual needs.
The best advice I can give anyone is to think about your dog's preferences and needs when deciding. For example:
if your dog has quite soft nails then a good quality nail trimmer will be easy if introduced positively and in short sessions.
if your dog has quite thick and strong nails you may opt for introducing a Dremel instead as this can be less of an intense sensation to your dog.
if your dog has had a negative experience to one tool, opting to introduce another tool in a positive way instead
The majority of dogs will do better with scissor/claw-style nail clippers rather than the guillotine versions and it is also important they are the right size of cutting blade for your dog's nails and that they are kept sharp and free from any rust (regular checks are essential).
And a good, quiet Dremel can also be a blessing! Not just for smoothing over any rough nail edges either, but to use as an alternative to nail clippers completely. Dremels tend to be less risky than nail clippers because no cutting is involved at all, but they can take time to introduce positively.
You can find a list of my recommended tools by downloading my guide here.
#2 - Prepare Your Space
Preparing the space where nail trimming takes place can help to remove any potential distractions which may lead to accidents happening.
Understandably, nail trimming requires a degree of concentration otherwise it's possible to miss the pre-quick and go straight for the quick itself and suddenly, blood everywhere!
Keeping your space comfortable with adequate lighting (natural is always best) is a great start, followed by a room with little outside/inside distractions. For example, noisy environments, windows looking out onto busy streets and/or unruly toddlers having a meltdowns (just my home? Moving on!).
Get comfortable - make sure your body is positioned and supported in a way that doesn't cause you any strain, and equally set up the space for your dog's comfort as well - think about putting down some thick yoga mats or allowing them to rest on the sofa during the process.
#3 - Understand The Anatomy of The Paws
Before you begin handling your dog's paws and nails, how much do you actually know about them?
Getting to know the parts of the paws and what their purpose is can make a huge difference, especially when it comes to knowing how best to approach and prepare the paws for nail trimming and pad care.
You can learn more about the anatomy and function of paws and nails through my wonderful little, 'Low-stress Paw & Nail Care Mini Course'.
A dog's paws are incredibly sensitive and play a crucial part in ensuring they feel safe.
#4 - Introduce Tools Positively
Another thing I see all too often is eager dog carers or professionals jumping in the deep end and expecting a dog to tolerate nail trimming and paw care without any desensitisation prior.
Big mistake!
Being privy to desensitisation methods and combining them with some really positive rewards can help convince your dog that there is nothing to fear.
There are many ways to introduce tools positively including classical conditioning, operant conditioning and even games-inspired training! The amazing Susan Garrett has a wonderful mini-course called 'Pedicure Please!' which focuses on making nail trimming fun for dogs - check it out!
Whichever you choose should be selected based on what your dog enjoys taking part in the most but all tools should be carefully and gradually introduced to your dog prior to using them.
#5 - Soften The Nails For Trimming
When you have a more advanced understanding of the anatomy of the paws and nails, you will be able to use this knowledge to decide how best to prepare your dog for nail trimming and paw care sessions to make it lower-stress.
One way to make nail trimming less of a knee-jerker is to consider giving your dog a bath prior. Contrary to how most professional groomers are taught, nails are best trimmed post-bath rather than pre-bath because they are softer and therefore, easier to clip through.
It's worthwhile noting here that while the nail is softer and easier to clip, the warmth also causes the quick to swell meaning that you won't be able to remove as much of the nail as a result.
Less is more, especially in this case!
Note: If you are opting for nail grinding using a Dremel or scratchboard however it is far more effective doing so when the nails are not soft to avoid the vibration hitting off the swollen quick underneath causing a nerve jilt!
#6 - Less Is More
How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time...
Horrible analogy I know, but the point is worthwhile considering nonetheless!
Instead of being obsessed with clipping all nails from all paws, why not settle for one or two a day, over the course of a week or two instead?
Sometimes a dog can be especially nervous when having to endure a prolonged nail trimming session therefore being able to settle for less, can take the pressure off of your dog and you.
Note: Unless it is a matter of welfare, a dog doesn't need to have all nails trimmed in one sitting!
To learn more about low-stress grooming you can follow me via socials @theholisticdoggroomer and @theholisticgroomingacademy.
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