Getting your dog comfortable with nail trims should start when they’re young. Waiting until there’s already a nail issue, or your dog is older, makes the process much harder—for you and for them. The key is to go slow and take it step by step.
Begin by simply getting your puppy used to having their feet touched. Once they’re relaxed with that, introduce the nail trimmers and just touch their toes—don’t actually trim yet. When your pup is comfortable with this, you can try trimming a nail or two, ideally while providing a distraction. I like to use Kong cheese or peanut butter spread on a rubber mat. This keeps your puppy occupied and helps them associate nail trims with something positive.
Take your time and avoid rushing. Try not to trim too short, and always keep your puppy’s limbs in a natural position—forcing or pulling can make them resist and set back your progress. At this age, puppies remember experiences vividly, so making nail trims positive now will pay off later.
The video below shows a simple technique for using Kong cheese as a distraction during a puppy nail trim.
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