How to cut your dog's nails: FAQ

Like us, your dog's nails will keep growing throughout their life. If you walk your dog on pavements or roads, the claws that make contact with the concrete will naturally wear down to the correct length. However, they'll sometimes need an additional trim every now and again.

How often do my dog's nails need to be clipped?

If you've never cut your dog's nails before, it's important to ask your vet because it's often not necessary. They'll be able to advise you how often to cut your dog's nails, and also how to do it at home.

Occasionally a dog's dew claws (the claw on their inside leg that sits slightly higher up, often referred to as their "thumb") will overgrow as they don’t reach the ground during walking, so don't wear down naturally. Overgrown nails are also more likely if your dog is lame, arthritic or does not get as much exercise due to age as this shifts their weight off certain parts of their paws.

How do I know if my dog’s nails need to be clipped?

In most cases, natural wear will be enough to keep your dog's nails at a good length. Dogs cannot retract their nails (like cats can), so you'll always hear their nails clicking when they walk on solid surfaces. This does not necessarily mean their nails are too long and need to be clipped.

Dogs might also lick or chew their paws if their claws are causing them discomfort. If this is the case, always visit your vet instead of cutting their claws at home. If their paw is sore or infected, you might cause them pain.

Preparing to cut your dog's nails

If you're unsure about how to trim your dogs nails, you can ask your vet for advice. They'll let you know how to do this and how often. Many dogs are sensitive when it comes to having their feet handled. There are nerves growing down the centre of the nail, so trimming can pinch this.

What you'll need

To trim your dogs nails, you'll need a special nail clipper for dogs which you can usually pick up at your local vet or pet shop. These come in several sizes depending on the size of your dog. Or, you could also use a nail file or grinder.

Before you get started, make sure your dog is comfortable with your touching their feet and paws. You can then start to show them the clippers a few days before and give them a nice treat. You should repeat this a few times so they associate the clippers with something nice.

How to trim your dog's nails

1. Make sure your dog is nice and calm
2. When you're ready, gently but firmly hold your dog's paw. If your dog is not comfortable with this, you may be able to leave their foot on the ground.
3. Look at your dog's nail to see how much is needed to cut – if you're unsure, speak to your vet first
4. Use the dog clippers to trim your dog's nails a few millimetres from the quick. This is the pink part running down the middle of the claw.
5. Repeat with any other long claws if your dog is patient enough to allow this. To make things easier for you and your dog, you don't have to do all their nails in one sitting.
6. Reward your dog with a yummy treat

What if my dog's claw starts bleeding after I've cut their claws?

If you make contact with the quick, it will start to bleed. Make sure you have some cotton wool or a silver nitrate stick to apply around your dog's nail until it stops bleeding.