If not done often enough, with proper technique, and reward- training, it can be frightening and even painful for your dog. In this article are answers to many common dog nail clipping questions as well as tips on proper equipment and technique that will give you advantage when you approach this simple home dog-grooming necessity.

Is dog nail trimming painful to my dog?

Dog nail trimming is not painful if you use a sharp nail trimmer and don’t clip nails too short. A dull trimmer can put a lot of pressure on your dog's toenail before it actually cuts through nail. If this happens your dog may feel an uncomfortable pinching sensation. This is because vein in toenail is being squeezed. To avoid this always make sure that you're using a sharp pet nail trimmer.

What tools do I need to trim my dog’s nails?

You will want to have a sharp clipper designed for dog nail trimming. Dogs come in all sizes so choose a nail trimmer that’s right for size of your pet’s nails. The most common types of nail trimmers are guillotine, pliers and scissor styles.

Guillotine style dog nail trimmers require that dog’s nail be inserted through a hole in top of trimmer. As handles are squeezed together blade comes down and cuts through nail. Many people find guillotine style clippers more difficult to use on large breed dogs. Thicker nails can be more difficult to insert into guide hole in clipper. These dog nail trimmers have a cutting blade that must be changed frequently to maintain a nice clean cut.

Pliers style dog nail trimmers work similar to pruning shears. The two notched blades surround and cut through nail as handles are squeezed together. Some people like this style because they can see exactly where blade will cut through nail. If you have a large dog this type of trimmer works great on thick nails.

Just make sure to select a heavy-duty clipper designed to cut through thick toenails of your large breed dog. Pliers style trimmers are available for small, medium and large dogs. These dog nail trimmers don’t have blades that need to be replaced but they do need to be sharpened when they become dull.

Scissor style dog nail trimmers work just like a pair of scissors. The two scissor-like notched blades surround and cut through nail as handles are closed. These clippers are for light duty jobs only. These are not actually dog nail trimmers. They are best used for cats, birds and other small animals. Some people do use them on small dogs. They’re usually labeled as cat/bird claw clippers.

The style you choose for your dog nail trimming needs is a matter of personal preference. If clipper is correct size it will get job done. Just remember to keep your nail trimmer sharp so that it makes a fast clean cut. A dull clipper can pinch nail, which will result in discomfort to your dog.

In addition to good quality nail trimmers, it is also recommended to have a pet nail file. You’ll find that it is much easier to file down any rough edges with a nail file that has been designed for shape of your dog’s nails.

Next on list is styptic powder. It’s always a good idea to have it on hand for those occasional mishaps. A nail clipped just a little too short tends to bleed a lot. Applying some styptic powder will help stop bleeding.

Finally, keep plenty of dog treats on hand to reward good behavior. You can also use dog treats to distract your pet during dog nail trimming. Treats work great to draw a dog's attention away from a bleeding nail.

Why do my dog’s nails need to be trimmed regularly?

When a dog’s nails become too long they interfere with dog’s gait and as nails continue to grow, walking will become awkward and painful. Untrimmed nails can also split resulting in a great deal of pain, bleeding, and a trip to veterinarian’s office. In severe cases a dog’s nails can curl under and grow into pad of dog’s paw causing a very serious and painful infection. These types of ingrown nail problems are most common on dewclaws.

The dewclaws are nails located on inside of paw. Many breeders have dewclaws removed shortly after puppies are born, so not all dogs will have dewclaws. If your dog has them remember to include them in your dog nail trimming routine. These nails don’t touch ground, so they don’t wear down as fast as others as your dog walks on rough surfaces. Trimming your dog’s nails regularly will easily prevent these problems.

How do I know when my dog’s nails need to be trimmed?

When your dog’s nails are beginning to curve is one indication that your dog’s nails need a trim. And if you hear a clicking or tapping sound as your dog walks across a bare floor it’s definitely time for a nail trimming. But it is best not to wait that long – once or twice a month is usually a good rule of thumb for dog nail trimming.

If you let your dog’s nails grow too long then it could take some time to get them back to a healthy length again. Regularly trimming tips of your dog’s nails is best approach. Some dogs walk and run on rough surfaces and are able to wear down their nails, but most dogs will need some help. You will get to know how fast your dog’s nails grow if you routinely inspect your pet’s nails.

Even if you don’t actually trim them each time, regular inspection will help assure that your dog’s feet stay healthy. So, make nail inspection and trimming an important part of your dog’s routine grooming.

When should I start trimming my dog’s nails?

If you’re starting with a puppy answer is as soon as you bring your new puppy home. If you have an adult or an older dog answer is pretty much same – right now. If you start early it probably will not take too long for your puppy to adjust to a nail trimming routine. Make a habit of handling your puppy’s feet everyday. Nail trimming will be much easier if your puppy doesn’t mind having his feet handled.

Let's say you have -- but you thought buying a purebred pup was a less-than-ideal use of your family's resources. If that's case, it might be time to look up your local Dog Rescue organization! Dog Rescues are organized by breed, so prospective parents can sign up to be notified when new poodles or pugs come in.

What's advantage of adopting a rescue dog, instead of a breeder pup? A rescue dog isn't always cheaper than breeder's (though it usually is). The main difference is this: your money equals a new life for a dog that completely lost out on his first roll of dice.

*How do I adopt a Rescue Dog?

Dog rescue organizations are volunteer-driven, and loosely organized. Your best bet is to 'Google' for one nearest you, using breed name. So poodle lovers can search for 'Poodle Rescue' or 'Poodle Rescue Florida,' if they live down south.

Once you find an organization, you'll want to apply as an adoptive parent. This may involve a down payment. It also usually involves a form in which you describe your history of animal ownership, and supply references. You'll provide some information on your beliefs about dog discipline, your house and yard, and where you plan to keep your newest family member.

The dog rescue foster moms and will want to talk to you in person, too, to get a feel for your compatibility with their particular pup.

*What will I pay for a Rescue Dog?

On average, you'll pay between $200 and $300. If you thought "rescue" adoption was cheap, this might seem like a lot, but fact is it simply covers basic procedures to bring animal back to health. Most dogs arrive at Rescue with skin problems, tartar-coated teeth, out-of-date vaccinations, possible parasites and other issues.

*How will a Rescue Dog differ from a breeder or pet store dog?

In a number of ways. Your new adoptee is likely to be:

Older. Few dogs are rescued as puppies. A few are 'adolescent.' The vast majority are middle-aged.

Cautious. Your adoptee may have a lot of fear and yes, grief, to process. If he felt like a part of his former family, he may be grieving his sudden "ejection." He may need time and patience to take an interest in food, play, or his general surroundings. If he was starved or kept isolated, he'll need time and patience to learn to socialize.

"Readable." Buying a puppy means taking a wild guess at eventual adult. When you rescue a grown dog, you get a much better idea of his personality. It's easier to make perfect match.

*Am I right type of owner for a Rescue Dog?