Do you cut your dogs' nails?

United States
August 2, 2008 5:42am CST
Well, I have a long-haired chihuahua and I usually cut his toe nails myself. I never really go too short and then I file them. But I don't think I cut them as short as I could since I fear to cut them too short.
1 person likes this
4 responses
lisa611
@lisa611 (1)
• New Zealand
2 Aug 08
I need to cut my dogs nails but I've never done it before and fear I'll hurt him. Any tips on how to do it for the first time?
amore07
@amore07 (58)
• United States
3 Aug 08
It is easiest to have someone like your vet show you how far to go down. If your dog has really black nails then it makes it harder, but dogs with lighter nails you are able to see how far you should go down. I know there is also nail cutters for dogs that have a device on them so you only go down so far to cut the nail. If your dog is a puppy I would start by massaging their paws so it gets use to you touching them. A lot of dogs don't like their paws cut and will try to bite you.
gabbybright
@gabbybright (39)
• United States
12 Nov 08
I have always done this myself. i have toy poodles and yorkies.You have to unless you want to be scratched to bits! i cut too deep only once in 5 years and it didt hurt him or bleed really even a drop though i could see i had cut into the quick.I too suspect i could cut further but im afraid too even with 5 years experience!
alnoodle
@alnoodle (48)
• United States
1 Sep 08
Sweets, I cut the German Shepherd's nails! With the chihuahua you should be able to see the wick... you just have to cut below that. I have a nail cutter with a guard... maybe you'd want that.... I can't use it for Chevelle or Malina... it's too small. It's one I used for the cats.
janeellen47
@janeellen47 (43)
• United States
29 Sep 08
I have a long haired chihuahua too.They are the absolute best dogs!Is yours real protective of you? Mine follows me all over the house.