Have them lie on their side while you do your paw-handling training exercises. Another way is to trim the nails while the dog is standing without lifting up the paw. Only do this if you are experienced with trimming nails. [1] X Research source The Everything Dog Grooming Book. Sandy Blackburn. F + W Publications, Inc.

Trauma usually only occurs in one nail and is caused by running on rough surfaces, catching a nail on an object, or improper nail trimming. Trauma or health conditions like diabetes and low thyroid levels can lead to bacterial infection in the nail. Bacterial infections usually cause swelling, pain, and discharge around the nails. Fungal and parasitic infections are less common than bacterial infections but cause similar symptoms. Tumors can take different forms: lumps, bumps, swellings, redness, or discharge. Immune disease can also affect the nail and may make the nail brittle and prone to sloughing. Always bring these findings to the attention of your veterinarian as soon as possible for treatment.

The “scissors” might be easier to use, as you don’t need to thread the nail through the cutting surface as with the guillotine.

If your dog has white nails, you should be able to see the pink-colored quick through the nail. If your dog has dark nails you won’t be able to see the quick. Carefully trim the nails back a little at a time to avoid cutting into it. [5] X Expert Source Lancy WooCertified Pet Groomer Expert Interview. 26 February 2020. You might have a groomer or vet show you how far to trim the nails. If a dog’s nails grow too long, the quick will grow with it. Frequent trimmings will make the quick recede back to a normal length.

If you have a very wriggly dog, ask a second person to help you out. Have your friend hold the dog while you’re free to focus on the trimming.

Locate or approximate the quick before trimming off the end of the nail. Carefully work your way back towards the quick and stop trimming 2-3 millimeters in front of it. Don’t forget to trim the dewclaws on dogs that have them. Dewclaws are the nails some dogs have on the inside of the leg, just above the “wrist. “[6] X Research source

If bleeding doesn’t stop after 10 minutes, call your vet.