Just like us humans, canines can suffer from overgrown nails. Where their wild ancestors would’ve worn down their nails by running and hunting, our lovely domestic creatures have evolved rather differently.
According to The Kennel Club, overgrown claws are one of the top five most common disorders affecting dogs in the UK. Many owners dislike putting dogs who aren’t used to the sensation of nail clipping into uncomfortable positions, while others fear clipping too close to the quick – a blood supply which begins mid-way through a dog’s claw.
However, overgrown nails are an uncomfortable and cumbersome condition for our poor pooches. It can affect everything from their posture and gait, to their day-to-day comfort. Long nails force pups to put excess pressure on the wrong parts of their foot while straining other joints and muscles. They can also curl over and dig into paw pads and are further prone to painful splitting.
As such, maintaining a healthy and comfortable nail length for your pup is essential to their overall well-being. Fear not, for we’re here to help you along.
What is the proper way to use dog nail clippers?
If your dog’s nails are already overgrown…
…start slow and steady. Longer nails will have a longer quick, which means you’ll need to trim short amounts over time before you can help your pup maintain a standard, healthy nail length.
If your dog is already used to regular grooming…
…and you’ve decided to start clipping their nails at home, the general rule is that a dog’s claws should not touch the floor when on a flat surface.
Always seek advice from your local vet or dog groomer…
…especially if you’re starting from scratch. From learning how to avoid cutting the quick, to knowing exactly what to do if you accidentally do cause some bleeding – a crash course from your local expert should always be your first port of call.
How do I get my dog used to nail clippers?
If you’re set to be the proud owner of a puppy, we recommend introducing them to grooming devices from the get-go. Allow them to get used to the sensation and taste of a toothbrush and toothpaste, the feeling of a wire grooming brush, showers, blow dryers and – of course – nail clippers. Even if their little paws and claws are too small for clipping, simply bring a pair of clippers near their paws and press down, so that your puppy becomes familiar with the sound.
On the other hand, if you’re coming into ownership of a dog who is a little bit more senior, getting them used to nail clippers might involve a whole lot of patience and a decent reward system. Find out what really makes your pup tick – be it peanut butter, chicken or berries – and reward their progressive good behaviour with their favourite treats. As with puppies, it might still be worth getting them used to the sound of clippers before moving on to the sensation.
Without further ado, we’ve curated a selection of the best nail clippers for dogs down below. Keep scrolling for puppy-ready and senior-friendly options.
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Gonicc Dog & Cat Pets Nail Clippers and Trimmers - with Safety Guard
This ergonomically designed, value-for-money set of nail clippers has almost 70,000 positive user reviews for a reason. From the sleek non-slip handles, lightweight body and comfortable grip to the child-friendly lock to prevent sneaky paws from playing with dangerous tools, this brilliant set of clippers is sure to go the distance.
Gonicc clippers are available in two different sizes fit for medium-small or large-medium canines, and the safety stop blade greatly reduces the risk of cutting too close to the quick. They also come with a hidden additional nail file which slots discretely into the front of the left-hand grip.
Buy now £7.95, Amazon
Dremel 7020-PGK Pet Nail Grinder
Popular among home and professional groomers alike, the Dremel is a fuss-free, quiet alternative to nail clippers which works particularly well for nervous pups. The battery-operated, cordless and rechargeable device can be used anywhere, anytime – and is particularly easy to clean. This is because the safety guard not only traps nail dust but also prevents fur from being caught in any motorised mechanisms.
The motor runs quietly and features variable speed settings to avoid startling your pup, while the entire device is covered by a two-year guarantee. This set comes with four sanding discs, though extra ones can be purchased separately.
Buy now £37.99, Amazon
Kaket Dog Nail Clippers
These LED nail clippers will help you to get a better view of your pooch’s precious claws during grooming to prevent any accidental clipping of the quick. Strong, sturdy and brilliant for darker nails, you simply can’t go wrong with this dog and cat-friendly set.
Buy now £10.29, Amazon
Thunderpaws Professional-Grade Dog Nail Clippers with Protective Guard and Safety Lock (Medium to Large Breeds, Yellow)
Professional-grade and easy to use, these clippers are made with high-quality stainless steel and are built to last – meaning they’ll stay sharp for years. They’re equipped with a safety guard to prevent over-trimming and also come with a nail file for neatening up. Available in yellow or blue depending on your personal preference, these clippers are suitable for medium to large dogs.
Buy now £7.99, Amazon
FURminator Dog and Cat Nail Clippers
This set of clippers is suitable for dogs of all shapes and sizes and comes with an adjustable nail guide for extra safety. Crafted from sharp and durable stainless steel, regular nail trimming has never been easier.
Buy now £19.00, Pets at Home
Candure Dog Nail Clippers for Large, Medium and Small Breed
Ideal for small, medium and large dogs, as well as cats, rabbits, parrots and other birds, these versatile nail clippers feature non-slip handles and are fashioned in an ergonomic design. Comfortable and incredibly simple to use, this set additionally comes with a full-size nail file. The extra-strong spring further prevents you from straining your own precious paws when clipping particularly tough nails on larger dogs.
Buy now £7.55, Amazon
Resco Deluxe Dog Nail Clippers
Complete with a protective loop to prevent over-clipping, these trimmers come with one blade replacement, a handy nail file and even a small jar of styptic powder to stop bleeding if you accidentally cut too close to the quick. With first-aid solutions and spare parts to boot, this is a fantastic value set which is sure to go the distance.
Buy now £33.37, Amazon
