Trimming your dog's toenails is an essential part of grooming. If you can hear your dog's nails "click, click, click" on the bare floor as they walk it is time for a trimming.

Trimming a dogs toenails can be tricky, especially if you have an overly anxious, excitable dog, or one that does not like having its paws touched. Also, if your dog has black or very dark nails it is difficult to determine where the blood vessels and nerves (the quick) are located - it is very important that you do not snip too far into the nail; this will cause bleeding and pain as the nails contain sensitive nerves. If this is the case it is best to have a professional groomer or your veterinarian trim your dog's nails.

If you have a dog that is calm and used to having its paws handled then by all means take on the task yourself. I trim both of my dog's nails with no difficulty, but have been doing it since they were pups so they are very accustomed to the process.

You will need a good set of trimmers and styptic powder in case of accidental nicking of the quick. I have used both the guillotine style trimmers and the scissor style trimmers. The guillotine trimmer lets you make a clean, quick cut. I prefer using the scissor style trimmers, especially for larger breed dogs, as their nails are much thicker and this style of trimmer seems to be a bit sturdier. If you have a smaller breed dog (under 35 lbs.), I suggest using the guillotine style trimmer.

There are several different methods you can use to restrain your dog in order to trim its nails. Find a position that is comfortable for both you and your dog. One method is to put your dog on a table. Stand to the side of the table on the opposite side of the paw you are trimming. If your dog is moving around too much try laying him/her down on his/her side to trim the nails. I prefer to trim my dogs' nails when they are in a sitting position. Again, experiment and see what works best for you and your pet. You may need to have someone help you hold your dog the first time you attempt this process.

Hold the trimmers at a right angle to the nail; make the proper placement (approximately 1/4" inch away from the quick) and make a firm, steady cut. You want to just trim the very end of the nail.

When cutting black or dark nails always make several small cuts to reduce the chance of cutting into the quick. With each cut check the nail to make sure you have not cut too close. Look for a grayish-pink oval at the top of the cut surface of the nail. Once you start to see this, do not cut any further as you are getting close to the quick. If you are afraid to cut too close it is advised to make a small cut, wait ten days (the quick will start to recede once the nail is trimmed) and then make another small cut. Again, if you are not comfortable with this procedure it is best to contact your veterinarian or groomer.