How to Be Your Dog's Best Friend: A Training Manual for Dog Owners

by Monks of New Skete

If you are dealing with an older dog, you can desensitize him to nail clipping much more gradually. Sit on the floor with him and gently take his paw in your hand and lightly massage the toes. When he allows you to do this without pulling his paw back, praise him warmly and give him a treat. Practice this for several consecutive days. Next, begin applying light pressure to a nail by tapping it lightly with your index finger. As the dog allows you to do this, give him a treat. Be prepared to go slow — there's no rush in view of the long-term goal. Once your dog is comfortable having his nails touched, show him the nail clipper, letting him sniff it if he is inquisitive. Gently hold his front paw with your free hand and clip only the very tip of one nail. Praise him warmly and give him a treat. If your dog seems comfortable, trim the remaining nails on the paw in the same way, rewarding him after each clip. Conclude the session once the initial foot is finished. Do the remaining paws over the next several days in a similar fashion. Usually this approach can condition a dog to the nail-trimming procedure in a short while, then all of the nails can be done in one session. The key is to remember always to praise and treat, and to take off just the tips.