To trim the nails of a dog that hates it, pick a tool he tolerates (clippers, a quiet grinder or a scratchboard), desensitize him slowly with short, frequent, treat-filled sessions, and trim just one or two nails at a time, stopping before he gets stressed. If he still panics or gets aggressive, let a groomer or vet do it.
Your heart rate is probably already elevated during a routine nail trimming. Now imagine trying to cut your dog’s nails while he’s writhing around, resisting and trying to get away as if his life depended on it. Yeah, the task will be infinitely harder. If you're wondering what's behind the fear, see why dogs don't like getting their nails cut.
Some dogs may need professionals to step in, but before we get to that stage, there are different methods a dog parent can try.
Tools to Help Trim a Difficult Dog’s Nails
The first step to making things easier is to pick the right tool. What tools are out there? Depending on your dog’s preference, needs, and level of fear, there are a few options to choose from.
Dog Nail Clippers/Scissors
Dog nail clippers or scissors are the most basic tools when it comes to dog nail trimming. They’re also the ones that many dogs dislike because of the pressure they feel on their nail as the blades clamp down.
These tools can be narrowed down further into different types:
Guillotine Clippers
Scissors
Pliers
1Dog Nail Grinders
If your dog is not a fan of clippers, you can turn to dog nail grinders. These are battery-operated and are designed to sand down your dog’s nails to a desired length slowly. You have more control with dog nail grinders and they are usually safer and offer more precision.
You also won’t have issues with splintering or rough-cut edges because the drum sander will not only shorten but smooth out the ends of the nails at the same time.
As great as these devices sound, there is a major drawback for many dogs, which is the engine noise. The sound of the tool starting up and the vibrations against your dog’s nails could be unpleasant for him.
2Dog Nail Scratchboards
If all else fails, you can resort to manual dog nail scratchboards. The best part is your dog does all the work – but not without some training first. These tools are quite innovative and simple. They are basically just sandpapers of varying coarseness stuck onto the surface of a wooden or plastic board.
Your dog can naturally file and shorten his nails by doing something dogs do best – scratching! It’s stress-free for many dogs and definitely takes the burden off of your shoulders. However, training your dog on how to use it could take some time, so be prepared for that with plenty of positive reinforcement and treats.
Conclusion
Ensuring that your dog’s nail trimming experience is as stress-free as possible will benefit you too. Not only is it vital for your dog’s overall well-being, but it strengthens your bond as well. The first step is to select the right tool for your dog, and then introduce it to him gradually.
Recognizing the signs of stress and knowing when to take a step back will make the process easier to accept and more comfortable for your pooch. You can employ desensitization methods and consider alternative trimming tools to get the job done. Don’t be afraid to ask a professional when you’re in doubt.
