How to Trim Dog Nails (Including Black Nails)

What the quick is

Inside each nail is the quick: the blood vessels and nerves that supply the claw. Cutting into it hurts and bleeds ^[2]. The AKC describes it as running through the core of the nail and supplying it with blood ^[3].

The quick is easier to see in light-colored nails ^[2]. On dark nails it is hard to see, which is why black nails need a different approach (below).

How often to trim

The simplest cue comes from the ASPCA: trim when the nails just about touch the ground as your dog walks ^[1].

Suggested intervals vary between sources. The AKC says every three to four weeks for most dogs, depending on activity ^[3]. A veterinary technician at Texas A&M suggests every six to eight weeks, depending on activity and the surfaces your dog walks on ^[4].

The same Texas A&M source gives a length guide: the tip of the nail should reach no further than halfway down the front of the paw pad. It also notes that if nails aren't trimmed regularly, the quick can grow longer, which can make standing or walking painful ^[4].

What you need

1. A clipper sized for your dog. The ASPCA describes scissors-type and guillotine-type clippers ^[1]; see our clipper picks.
2. Styptic powder or cornstarch, in case you cut the quick ^[1].
3. Treats, and good light.

Step by step

This follows guidance from Washington State University's veterinary teaching hospital, the ASPCA and the AKC ^[1][2][3].

1. Get your dog comfortable, with praise, petting and treats ^[4].
2. Find the quick on light nails. Plan to stay well clear of it: WSU advises staying at least 2 mm from the quick ^[2].
3. Cut at a 45-degree angle from underneath, per WSU, taking a small amount ^[2].
4. Work one nail at a time, rewarding as you go ^[4]. In our view, you don't have to do every nail in one session.
5. Don't forget the dewclaws. They don't wear down, so they need regular trimming ^[2].

Trimming black nails

On dark nails, take several small cuts rather than one big one ^[2], and look at the cut surface after each one. Sources describe the sign to stop slightly differently:

1. WSU: stop when a gray-to-pink oval appears on the cut surface ^[2].
2. ASPCA: stop when you see the beginning of a circle, still nail-colored, on the cut surface ^[1].
3. AKC: watch for a chalky white ring ^[3].

When you see any of these, you're close to the quick. Stop cutting that nail there.

If you cut the quick

It happens. Stay calm and press styptic powder or cornstarch onto the nail with a little pressure ^[1]. WSU says that without styptic powder, bleeding may take about five minutes to stop ^[2].

If it keeps bleeding for more than a few minutes after you've applied styptic powder or cornstarch, call your vet. The ASPCA also mentions checking for clotting problems ^[1].

Making it easier, and when to get help

Start handling your dog's paws early and build a positive association with praise, petting and treats, one nail at a time ^[4].

WSU recommends learning to trim from a vet or veterinary technician first ^[2], and the AKC quotes its chief veterinary officer suggesting the same ^[3]. If your dog is fearful or aggressive, the ASPCA recommends a vet, professional groomer or certified behaviorist rather than forcing it ^[1].