When using over-the-counter drugs to sedate dogs to trim nails, seek advice from a vet. You can also dip the nail in Styptic powder.Īnother alternative would be placing ice cubes on the wounded area. Put some pressure on the tip of the nail. If you realize the quick is bleeding, do not panic. Courtesy PrecautionsĪccidents are inevitable sometimes, you might cut the dog and cause bleeding. Remember, the next time your dog sees clippers, he likely won’t stay still. If you cut the quick accidentally, you will hurt your dog and cause the dog’s foot to bleed. Avoid clipping till you reach the quick, innervated, and vascularized inner part of the nail, which is very soft. When you reach the black place on the nail, it’s time to stop clipping. The dog will stay calmer, waiting for you to finish each step. The best way to help your dog enjoy the process is by rewarding him at every step. Use metal clippers and cut the nail bit by bit until you reach the safety stop point. Identify the ideal cutting range for the nails. Get help from someone if you are unable to cut his nails by yourself while holding him. You can let the dog sit on your lap or hold him. Use clippers or scissors with sharp, stainless steel blades. Be cautious dogs’ feet are sensitive even when sleeping.īe extra careful not to hurt your pet accidentally when using nail trimmers or dog nail grinders. Clipping the nails Try trimming your dog’s nails while it’s sleeping. Use supplements like melatonin to keep your dog sedated before the nail-clipping process. Use products containing this hormone to give your dog the motherly scent to keep him calmer and reassured. When your dog is calm enough, you can prepare your clippers, nail file, or nail grinder. Massaging helps stop the production of cortisol, reducing stress on your dog. Make sure to rub the back of its head using your hands.ĭon’t forget to stroke down the base of the spine. Use some lavender oil for massaging your dog to calm it down. Pour some honey and give it to the dog when it’s warm.ĭogs get anxious, and you can use this herb to calm their nerves before trimming their nails.Īromatherapy relaxes and helps your dog fall asleep. Mix it with a skullcap, catnip, and hot water for a more relaxing chamomile tea. Alternatively, soak your dog’s favorite treats in the chamomile tea and let him eat it. Prepare chamomile tea and give it to him. They help ease dog nerves, and you don’t have to worry about your dog reacting to nail clippers when it’s calm.

Or try these natural sedation methods that help calm dogs.

Natural sedation methods: Herbs like California poppy, chamomile, rosemary, or valerian are natural relaxants.

Melatonin supplements: Help regulate body rhythm and help calm down your dog.

Benadryl : This mild antihistamine sedative helps calm your pet when it is nervous about clipping its nails.

For example, large dog breeds or high-energy dogs may need more than a toy or small dog. Sedatives block the central nervous system, making the dog relaxed and comfortable.īe sure to use the correct dose for your dog’s size. Your dog doesn’t need to be scared or nervous during nail trimming. There are many over-the-counter drugs out there that you can use to sedate your dog for nail trimming.

Dog scratch pad for nails