How to get nice tidy paws...
From Hairy Feet to Happy Feet
Step 1 - Trim the nails. If you are new to nail trimming it's a good idea to have a basic understanding about the nail. In this photo you can see the vein that runs into the nail and roughly where it ends.
You will see how the nail tends to hook downwards towards the end, this is the section I like to trim off.
N.B. If you cut into the vein the nail will bleed quite profusely, it's a good idea to always have styptic powder or liquid on hand if this happens as a dab of it will stop the bleeding almost instantly. This product is available in Pet stores.
The dots indicate roughly the division on the nail hook where I will be making my cut with the nail trimmers.
Many dogs have solid black nails which is why I've indicated the hook as that should help give an idea of where to trim. If you're unsure, then less is best when starting out.
Hold the paw firmly in hands. If the dog will let you, then I prefer to lay them on their back. I find it easier this way to control and see where I'm cutting
Rough edges can be smoothed with a pet nail dremmel. If you're using one, please take care to ensure any hair is out the way so it doesn't get caught up while it's spinning. You can find dremmels for sale at online canine grooming shops like Hub (see links page) or on Ebay.
Don't forget the dew claws - this nail is located just below their wrist - some dogs have these nails removed when they're born - so if you don't see a nail, don't be alarmed.
Step 2 - Now it's time to trim the hair away - the right paw is untrimmed to show the difference.
Take the paw and trim the excess hair vertically - make sure you're pointing the ends of the scissors downwards.
After trimming the pads, finish tidying the ends by trimming the hair to the edge of the nails.
The photo ( below right) demonstrates the correct angle to get a neat blunt finish.
If you trim into the paw like the photo above right, you will get a result that looks a bit like chicken feet!
The finished product - nice tidy paws.
The photo on the left shows you how hairy the pads can become - firmly hold the paw and trim the hair away as shown on the right. The photo below shows the end result.
N.B. Make sure you hold the scissors flat to the pads - always keeps the pointed end away from the dogs head in case the dog suddenly moves.
Please also visit our Grooming Pages
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