A Stress-Free Guide to Trimming Your Doggy’s Nails and Helping Her Have an Enjoyable Pawdicure

If you didn't begin trimming your doggy's nails when she was a puppy that's okay, it's never too late to start. And if you did attempt to trim her nails but she was much too terrified of the nail clippers, it's not too late to arrange a training intervention. Here's how to start fresh and reintroduce her to getting her nails trimmed, according to VetStreet:

pug paw

Via Wilheln Fyles / Flickr

Start Fresh

Dogs often have a negative association with clippers that have been used in the past, so switching to a new pair of clippers that is distinctly different from the old pair gives you and your dog a fresh start.

When you first introduce your dog to the new clippers, have a gigantic puppy party the moment she sees them. Take the clippers out from behind your back or somewhere hidden, and as soon as your dog sees them, immediately begin rewarding with ample treats. Repeat as many times as it takes for your dog to understand that the presence of the clippers means that good things are going to happen.

In a separate session, train your dog to allow you to touch her paws. Begin slowly and keep your dog relaxed; initially, this may mean only a light touch on your dog’s shoulder. Slowly progress while rewarding relaxation at each step.

Once you are able to touch her paw area while she stays relaxed, progress toward holding her paw in your hand. If she is still relaxed, add in a little pressure as you touch the nails, which will simulate pressure during trims.

After the break, find out what else you can do after you've gotten her used to seeing the nail clippers without running away and you touching her paws without her feeling uncomfortable. Practicing this next method is the key to getting her ready to finally go through with her pawdicure!

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