How to Keep Your Dog Calm During Nail Trimming or Grinding

by | Jan 22, 2025

Keep Your Dog Calm During Nail Trimming

Trimming or grinding your dog’s nails can be a stressful experience for both you and your dog, especially if they aren’t used to it. Some dogs might get anxious, pull away, or even growl due to fear. However, how to keep your dog calm during nail trimming or grinding with the right techniques and gradual introduction, can help your dog remain calm and relaxed during nail trimming.

Many dogs are sensitive to the feeling of their nails being touched or the sound and sensation of nail clippers or grinders.   My three Kelpies run and hide when they see me getting out their Dremel Nail grinder!  My shelties were fantastic, they laid on their backs on my lap and let me use a nail clipper quite calmly.

There are several reasons why dogs might feel anxious:

If a dog has had a negative experience with nail trimming (like a quick being cut), they may associate the process with pain.

Dogs that haven’t been exposed to nail care from a young age may find the tools and sensation unfamiliar and frightening.

Dremel tools or other nail grinders can be noisy and produce vibrations, which can startle dogs, especially if they have noise sensitivity.

Dogs may feel uneasy about being held still for any length of time, especially if they’re already wary of the tools.

Before jumping into trimming or grinding your dog’s nails, you’ll want to prepare them mentally and physically for the process. This involves gradual desensitisation and creating a positive association with the tools.

For nail trimming, you’ll need either:

Nail clippers: There are different styles, including guillotine-style and scissor-style clippers. Choose the one that you’re comfortable using.

Dremel tool or nail grinder: A rotary tool can file down your dog’s nails, and it’s generally easier to control how much nail is removed, reducing the risk of cutting into the quick.

Also, have styptic powder or cornstarch on hand in case you accidentally clip too much and the nail starts bleeding.

Start by introducing your dog to the tools in a non-threatening way by placing the clippers or dremel in a spot where your dog can sniff them and get used to their presence.

Each time your dog shows interest in the tool or approaches it, offer them a treat.

If you’re using a Dremel, turn it on and off a few times without going near your dog’s paws. Let them get used to the noise and vibration. Reward them each time the Dremel is turned on, even if it’s across the room. Gradually move it closer while continuing to give treats.

Before even using the tools, make sure your dog is comfortable with having their paws touched and spend a few minutes each day gently touching and holding their paws. 

As you continue introducing the tools and touching their paws, always reward your dog for remaining calm.  Offer high-value treats like small pieces of chicken or cheese which reinforces the idea that calm behaviour is rewarding.

Once your dog is comfortable with the tools and having their paws handled, you can begin the process of trimming or grinding their nails.

For the first few sessions, don’t try to trim or grind all their nails at once.  Let the tool briefly touch one nail, allowing your dog to feel the vibration. Reward them immediately after.

For nail clippers, trim just the tip of one nail and immediately reward your dog with a treat. Keep the sessions short and sweet.

If your dog shows signs of stress or anxiety, like pulling their paw away, whining, or licking their lips, don’t force the process. Go back to rewarding them for calm behaviour around the tools before trying again.

Keep Your Dog Calm During Nail Trimming

Once your dog is comfortable with trimming or grinding one or two nails, you can gradually increase the length of the sessions.  You may still need to trim all four paws over multiple sessions, but patience will pay off in the long run.

Trim or grind your dog’s nails when they’re calm and tired, such as after a walk or play session.

Dogs pick up on their owners’ emotions, so if you’re stressed or anxious, your dog may be too. Take deep breaths and remain calm during the process.

Give your dog something tasty to chew on or lick, like a Kong filled with peanut butter or a lick mat, to distract them during nail care.

Always use positive reinforcement throughout the process. Reward your dog with treats and praise at every step, from handling their paws to clipping or grinding each nail.

Some dogs may have a deep-rooted fear of nail trimming despite your best efforts. In these cases, you might want to consider:

Professional help: A professional groomer or vet may be able to trim your dog’s nails in a way that minimizes their anxiety.

The above suggestions on how to keep your dog calm during nail trimming or grinding are how I have helped my dogs and with patience, gradual desensitisation, and lots of positive reinforcement, you can help your dog stay calm during nail trimming or grinding.  

Until next time,

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With Love, Success and Inspiration,

Robin Oliver

Robin Oliver Pet Dog Training
Professional Dog Trainer

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