Does your dog feel stressed out every time you take him to their nail trimming appointment? Or maybe they really hate unknowns in white coats touching their paws?

Whatever the reason is, being afraid and stressed out is a big problem when their nails are too long. So, what can you do?

If you don’t want to scare your pup, there’s only one thing to do: cut their nails at home!

At first, it may sound mission impossible but cutting your dog’s nails at home is simpler than it seems. You don’t have to be a pro to do it. Just follow these 5 steps and your dog’s nails will have a decent length before you know it.

1. Buy a Nail Clipper or a Nail Grinder

The first thing you need is to have the right nail trimming equipment. It includes a nail clipper or a nail grinder, depending on your dog’s breed and nails.

There are a lot of models of nail clippers and grinders on the market, aimed at different types of nails and trimming results, so make sure you choose carefully.

2. Prepare a Safe and Comfortable Environment

To make sure your dog has a nice nail trimming experience, you need to prepare the environment. Taking into account that the environment is your home, choose your dog’s favorite spot. And, don’t forget treats so that you can give your pooch as a reward for their good behavior.

3. Take Your Dog’s Paw in Your Hand

Once everything is ready, take your dog’s paw in your hand. You can do this by putting your pet on one side and reaching under and around their arm to pick their paw. Alternatively, you can sit behind your dog and flip their paw backward so that you can look at the bottom of their paw. Use your free hand to trim their nails.

4. Get Ready for Trimming

It’s best to cut one nail at a time, with a pause and treat between each trimming. So, when you are ready, isolate one nail and take a good look at it to identify the quick.

Here are a few tips on how to identify the quick or know where to cut to:

• White nails – The quick is the point where the pink part of the nail starts, so you should cut before that part starts.
• Blacks nails – Cut carefully and a bit by bit. As you come near to the quick, the inside of the nail will look white and chalky. Soon, you will see a black dot in the middle of that area – that’s where the quick ends, so you stop there.
• Other types of nails – On some nails, the part you can cut is much thinner than the rest of the nail.

5. Cut Your Dog’s Nail

Hold the clippers at a 45° angle and cut the nail from top to bottom. If you cut from side to side, it will crush the nail. When you cut off the first nail, give your pup a treat as a reward for being nice and cooperative. Upon cutting all nails, smooth the edges with a nail file.