How Do I Trim My Puppy’s Nails?

Your puppy’s nails grow rapidly, and they can often become sharp and cause discomfort. Trimming your puppy’s nails is important to prevent scratches on you and your family members, especially while your puppy is still learning not to jump up. However, nail trimming can be intimidating for both you and your puppy and if not done carefully, it can lead to pain and even bleeding.

Image – Trimming puppy nails ( FYI Images do not depict the real one )

To start, select a pair of clippers suitable for your puppy’s small paws, ideally beginning nail clipping practice around 8 weeks of age.

Note – It’s beneficial to acclimate your puppy to being held and having their feet handled from a young age. Try this when your puppy is relaxed, such as during cuddle time, and be sure to reward them generously with treats or distractions like a Lick Mat smeared with KONG Puppy Paste.

Having an extra pair of hands to assist can be helpful. Ask your helper to gently hold your puppy around the shoulders in a sitting or standing position while you carefully trim the nails.

• Trim only the very tip of the nail to avoid cutting into the nail bed or ‘quick’, which can be painful and cause bleeding. If your puppy has white nails, it’s easier to see the pink of the nail bed and avoid cutting too close.
• For puppies resistant to nail clipping, gradually introduce the process, perhaps tackling one foot or even one nail at a time. Reward your puppy for their cooperation, and with patience and practice, you can gradually increase the number of nails trimmed per session.
• If you accidentally cut the nail too short, causing bleeding, don’t panic. Apply pressure with a tissue to help the blood clot, and consider using a small bandage if your puppy will tolerate it. If you’re concerned, don’t hesitate to contact your local veterinary clinic for advice.

Many veterinarians or veterinary nurses are willing to provide nail clipping lessons if you’re unsure or uncomfortable doing it yourself. Simply inquire during your puppy’s next vaccination or check-up appointment.