How to Position a Dog for Nail Cutting

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Table or counter
Canine clippers
Leash or restraint

Step 1:
Start working with your dog as a puppy to handle and touch his feet and pads. Rub and touch his feet regularly so he becomes accustomed to the touching, instead of resisting when you try to handle or touch his feet and pads. The older a dog is when you start trying to touch his feet, the harder he may resist.
Step 2:
Place your dog on a table, counter or elevated surface for the most comfortable position for you. You do not want to be bending or having to reach to hold on to the dog. This elevated surface gives more control over the dog as she is off the ground and can't run off.
Step 3:
Wrap your arm over your dog somewhat like a hug. For someone right handed, wrap your right arm over while holding the canine clippers. Slip your left arm up under the dog while you gently press the dog close to your body. Now, you can actually use your left hand to lift up the right paw, so that the right hand can clip the nails. Reposition your hold and arms as needed to clip the nails on both front feet.
Step 4:
Turn your body around, so that you are facing the back legs and feet of the dog. Again, wrap your arms around and under the dog to position yourself to hold the dog. Lift one back leg at a time backwards. This is a normal position for a dog, so should be comfortable for him. This position will allow you to view the bottom of the paw pad and snip the tips of the nails with the canine clippers.
Step 5:
Ask for assistance from another person in restraining your dog into position if she is uncooperative. Some dogs may just be scared and do not understand what is going on.
Step 6:
Use a leash restraint or a muzzle if your dog has a tendency to bite or attack. This will help you hold a good position so that you can carefully cut his nails.

Tips & Warnings

Move your dog's feet and legs only in the directions that her joints would ordinarily move. Be careful not to lift her leg or feet too high or wide as this may injure your dog.

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