There comes a time when the topic of clipping your dog’s nails must be brought up. Yes, it could get messy, bloody and stressful if done incorrectly, but it is a good idea that you learn how to do it properly.
First, let your dog get used to you touching his paws or feet and getting his toes manicured. Start this off from the time your dog is young. It is important to build that trust. Speak to your dog in a calm voice and always give him a treat when you are done with the manicuring.
Clip your dog’s nails during the day, when there is a lot of light. Separate the nail with your fingers from the rest of his paw. Look at the nail from underneath, you will see a groove that runs along the nail from the tip to where it goes into the paw and pad. Near that tip, you will see that it is grooved to the deepest, creating a hollow of sorts. To keep it safe and to avoid any blood [which is harmless], simply cut the tip off.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. A dog cannot bleed to death when you cut his nails too short. It does look bad, but do not panic. It will stop. Here are a few things to do at home to stop the bleeding:
– Use a napkin or clean, soft cloth to cover the bleeding area. This will stop the blood from messing up the whole area. Mix some flour, baking soda, and corn starch in a small bowl and dip your dog’s bleeding toe in it for a few seconds. This should stop the bleeding.
– Apply a bit of pressure on the wound with a paper towel. Do not squeeze the paw; instead apply pressure on the wound toward the paw.
– Put some ice over the paper towel. Ensure your dog is comfortable during this entire process because it could take some time for the bleeding to stop.
– You could also dip your dog’s nail in a tablespoon of Styptic Powder. This antiseptic contracts the blood vessel back up into the claw.
2. If the nail is white, it is easy to see where you should stop clipping. Right above where the white meets the dark part of the nail.