How to trim your dog's nails

Trim a little at a time, every 2 to 4 weeks, and stop before the pink quick inside the nail. If you hear the nails click on the floor, they're too long. Black nails are harder: take thin slices, or ask a groomer.

Step by step

Use sharp dog nail clippers or a grinder
Hold the paw gently, press the pad to push the nail out
Cut a thin slice at a slight angle, below where the nail curves
On white nails stop before the pink; on black nails stop when you see a grey-pink dot in the middle of the cut end
Don't forget the dewclaws on the inside of the leg
Give a treat after each paw

If it bleeds

Press styptic powder, cornflour or a clean cloth on the nail for a minute or two. It looks worse than it is. If it doesn't stop in 10 minutes, call your vet.

Why it matters

Long nails push the toes sideways and change how a dog walks, which can hurt joints over time. Dogs who walk on grass more than paving wear them down less.

Breed guides

Questions

More grooming guides

How often should I clip my dog's nails?

Every 2 to 4 weeks for most dogs. More often for small dogs and dogs that walk mostly on soft ground.

My dog hates nail trims. What can I do?

Do one nail a day with a treat, or use a grinder, which some dogs mind less. A groomer can do it quickly in a calm, practised way.