Make your dog comfortable in its dog booties

A dog needs to get its nail trimmed, every fortnight. It is not always possible to take it to the vet. Plus, nail clippers for dogs are easily available along with all the necessary first-aid that you may need, in case of an emergency.

Also, long nails will hurt them when you put their dog booties on, read the steps below and give your pooch a pedicure at home.

Familiarize yourself with your pet’s paws

A dog’s nail has a ‘quick’, the ‘quick’ is a pink or grey oval and an indication of where you should stop trimming immediately. If you cut beyond the quick, your dog will bleed and be in pain. It is generally advisable, to trim your dog’s nail measuring about 2mm. If you are trimming your dog’s nail after a long period of time, it is best that you cut them a small sliver at a time, till the quick becomes visible.

Buy the right clippers

Nail clippers for dogs can be classified into two types, the scissors or guillotine type trimmers. If you are clipping your dog’s nails for the first time, it is better to use a scissor trimmer as it works similar to regular paper scissors. You can cut horizontally and the chances to cut more than you intend to are less. The guillotine trimmer works vertically and makes a perpendicular cut to the nail. Use them after you and your dog have grown comfortable with the nail trimming routine.

Get your dog acquainted with your touch and the tools

Before you actually trim your dog’s nails, slowly start getting him used to your touch. Hold his paw firmly, for thirty seconds to one minute. Give him a treat right after you release his paw. Do not be aggressive with your hold, but make it firm. Do this two three times a day, over a period of two-three days. On the third day, get your clippers and just position them as if you were about to make the cut. See if your dog is pulling away, if it is, then let him, do not be aggressive from the start as that will make it resent it. Talk to him soothingly and let him come to you willingly. Repeat this routine for a couple of days.

On the day of the cut

Pick a time when your dog is not in an active mood. Clear an area and sit your dog on his dog bed. Hold your dog’s paw firmly and make the cut carefully and quickly. Keep blotting powder and other first-aid handy. Do not panic. Just comfort your dog and try to soothe him. Do not cut again before a day or two. If need be, take your pooch to a vet, first help him put on socks and then shoes for dogs so as to prevent his paws from any harm.