Dogs are more than just pets – they’re family! And just like any other family member, they need proper grooming and care. One of the most important aspects of dog grooming is keeping their nails trimmed. Long nails can cause discomfort and even injury to your furry friend. But with so many nail clippers on the market, how do you know which one to choose? In this article, we’ll take a look at the best dog nail clippers available, so you can keep your pup’s paws looking sharp and feeling great!
Why Are Dog Nail Clippers Important?
First things first – why do you even need to clip your dog’s nails? Well, for starters, long nails can be uncomfortable for your pup, especially if they’re walking on hard surfaces like concrete or tile. Overgrown nails can also cause your dog’s toes to splay, which can lead to joint pain and problems with your pup’s gait. But most importantly, long nails can cause injury. If your dog’s nails are too long, they can get caught on things like carpet fibers or furniture, which can cause the nail to tear or even rip out completely. Ouch!
That’s why it’s so important to keep your pup’s nails trimmed. But with so many different types of nail clippers out there, how do you know which one to choose? Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular options.
The Best Dog Nail Clippers: Our Top Picks
1. Guillotine Clippers
Source: bing.comGuillotine clippers are a popular choice for many dog owners. These clippers have a small hole where you insert your dog’s nail, and a blade that slides across to slice off the tip of the nail. Guillotine clippers are easy to use and affordable, but they can be difficult to maneuver if you have a wriggly pup.
2. Scissor Clippers
Source: bing.comScissor clippers are another popular option. These clippers look like a pair of scissors, with one blade that slides past a stationary blade to cut the nail. Scissor clippers are a great choice for dogs with thicker nails, but they can be more difficult to use if you have a smaller dog.
3. Dremel Grinder
Source: bing.comIf you’re looking for a more high-tech option, a Dremel grinder might be the way to go. These tools use a high-speed rotary grinder to file down your dog’s nails instead of cutting them. Dremel grinders are a great choice for dogs who are scared of traditional clippers, but they can be noisy and take some practice to get the hang of.
4. Plier-Style Clippers
Source: bing.comPlier-style clippers are another option to consider. These clippers have a scissor-like design, but with a plier-style handle that makes them easier to grip and maneuver. Plier-style clippers are a great choice for dogs with larger nails, but they can be more expensive than other options.
5. Guillotine Scissor Clippers
Source: bing.comFinally, there are guillotine scissor clippers. These clippers combine the best of both worlds – the ease of use of guillotine clippers with the precision of scissor clippers. Guillotine scissor clippers are a great choice for dogs of all sizes, but they can be more expensive than other options.
How to Use Dog Nail Clippers
Now that you know about the different types of dog nail clippers available, let’s talk about how to use them. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Get Your Supplies
Before you get started, make sure you have everything you need. You’ll need a pair of dog nail clippers, some styptic powder (just in case you accidentally cut the quick), and a towel to keep your pup from slipping around on hard surfaces.
Step 2: Get Your Dog Comfortable
Next, get your pup comfortable. You can do this by laying them down on their side or propping them up on a table. Make sure they’re calm and relaxed before you start.
Step 3: Identify the Quick
Before you start clipping, you’ll need to identify the quick. The quick is the pink part of the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves. You want to avoid cutting the quick, as it can be painful for your pup and cause bleeding.
Step 4: Start Clipping
Once you’ve identified the quick, it’s time to start clipping. Take your dog nail clippers and insert your pup’s nail into the hole (if you’re using guillotine clippers) or position the blade over the nail (if you’re using scissor clippers). Make sure you’re cutting at a 45-degree angle, and only take off a small amount at a time. Stop cutting as soon as you see the quick.
Step 5: Use Styptic Powder (If Necessary)
If you accidentally cut the quick and your pup starts bleeding, don’t panic! Just apply some styptic powder to the nail to stop the bleeding. This may sting a little bit, but it will help stop the bleeding quickly.
Step 6: Reward Your Pup!
Finally, make sure you reward your pup for being a good sport. You can give them a treat or some extra love and attention to let them know they did a great job.
Conclusion
Keeping your pup’s nails trimmed is an important part of dog ownership. With so many different types of dog nail clippers available, it can be tough to know which one to choose. But no matter which type of clipper you go with, make sure you follow proper clipping techniques and reward your pup for being such a good sport. With a little practice, you’ll be a pro at trimming your pup’s nails in no time!
