If you've mastered clipping your dog's nails and you're both still in the mood for some adventure, there are some finishing touches you can apply, as well as some other things you should be on the lookout for.

Nail and pad health are important in a dog. Nobody likes walking when every step is agony. Before and after you trim the nails, you should be aware of any oozing nails or any discolouration. In addition, the nails should not be soft or flaky. There should be no odour, and all the nails should roughly be about the same thickness (length might vary depending on how your dog tends to walk). If one or two seem "swollen", it might be a sign of an infection. Visit your vet.

The pads should likewise seem healthy. There should be no redness, swelling or strong odour. The pads should not be tender or painful to touch. When you're done cutting, make sure to sterilise all tools and surfaces. Most pet stores sell easy to use aerosol disinfectant in the grooming section.

If everything is Go, you can apply some finishing touches to your dog's pawdicure.

Nail Filing. Nail filing is an excellent way to finish off a nail trim. It isn't, however, an effective or safe substitute for dogs who need to have the length of their nail shortened.

Some owners believe that filing is an alternative for dogs who hate the nail clippers, but chances are good the dog will kick up even more of a fuss for a nail file, especially a mechanical Dremel.

A nail file should be used after the cut itself. Cutting a dog's nails sharpens them considerably, and if your dog jumps on you after the procedure, you'll feel like you've been stabbed by eight small knifes. Filing will lessen damage to skin, upholstery and furniture. It's also an effective means of helping quicks recede, if they've grown too long.

Most groomers use a tool called a Dremel file. It's a motorised file that rotates about 15,000 rpm and acts almost like a tiny sander to smooth out the rough edges left behind during a nail trim. If you have a short-haired dog, simply run the file along the edge of the nail. If you have a long-haired dog, be extremely careful about the hair around the feet, as it can get caught up in the Dremel! The best way to assure a safe job is to slip the stocking half of a pair of panty hose over the paw and poke the nails through.

Depending on the speed and power you require, a Dremel file averages about twenty to seventy dollars. Manual nail files manufactured for pets are also available. They're often much cheaper and while they don't do the job as quickly, they're a good alternative for anyone who's not sure about their ability to handle the Dremel.

Nail Painting. Yes, you can paint your dog's nails. How adorable. Do not, however, use human nail polish. There is a wide selection of non-toxic pooch polish available in stores and online, and it's more durable than the human stuff. If your dog enjoys glamour, she'll love having her nails painted. Or his nails. Let's be open-minded.

Again, slipping a piece of pantyhose over the foot is the best idea. It prevents excess polish from getting on the fur, and it makes for a neater job overall.