Before you begin cutting your Frenchie’s nails, there are a few supplies you will need.
If your Frenchie has never had his nails cut before, or finds the procedure uncomfortable, you will definitely need some tasty treats.
You will also need to purchase a pair of dog nail clippers.
Human clippers are not strong enough to break through the nail and can cause more damage.
So, let’s get started:
Step #1: Choosing a good trimming spot
The place you choose to trim your dog’s nails will have a big impact on how well the process goes. It is best to do this in a quiet room that your dog feels safe and relaxed.
Step #2: Position is everything
If you are sitting on the floor or on the couch, have your dog laying across your lap. If you have a table or counter for him, have him lying down.
A wriggly Frenchie does not make for easy nail trimming!
Step #3: Have your tools organized
Make sure you have everything you need before you begin and keep them within easy reach.
You will need clippers, treats, and cotton wool balls.
You may also want to have a file handy and some styptic powder in case the nail bleeds.
Step #4:Be cautious
Be cautious: when we cut our own nails, it is easy to see where the nail bed ends, so we don’t cut into our skin.
For dogs, this is harder. Start by cutting just 1mm each time. This makes it less likely for you to cut the quick by mistake.
If your dog has clear or pale nails, you will be able to see the quick. It will be the pinkish part in the centre of the nail.
Darker nails are harder to see, so you will have to be careful. Some dogs have a few pale nails and a few darker ones. You can use the length of the paler nails to guess how much to clip off the darker nails.
Step #5:Get the file
If you are unsure how close to the quick you are, or if your dog does not like the clippers, you can use a file with a rough grit instead.
This will be easier to control and will not jolt your dogs’ toes as the clippers would.
Step #6:One at a time:
Focus just on one nail until you get the length right. You can then use this nail as a guide for the remaining nails. This reduces the risk of you accidentally cutting the quick on the other nails.
Step #7:Front and back
Generally, the quick on the front paws will be slightly longer than the back paws. You will probably notice that the back paws do not take as long to trim.
Step #8:Clean, clean and clean
Once you have finished trimming your dog’s nails, you will need to remove any nail filings or dust.
Take a cotton wool ball dipped in warm water and wipe your dog’s nails and the skin around the nail bed.
Removing the nail filings and dust will prevent bacteria and also stops the skin from becoming irritated.
Step #9:Praise and reward
Remember to gently praise your dog whenever he is being calm.
You can also give him a treat as a reward. This will help him relax and see the experience as a positive one.
If you do cut to the quick, don’t panic.
You can use styptic powder to stop the bleeding. Simply press a small pea-size amount onto the end of the nail. If you do not have any styptic powder, corn starch is a good alternative.