Noah Sinclair
Keeping your Shorkie's nails short is essential for their health and comfort. If you can hear your Shorkie's nails clicking on the floor, it's definitely time for a trim! The process can be quick, easy, and safe if you use the right tools and techniques. Scissor-type clippers are ideal for small dogs like Shorkies, and it's important to hold them at a right angle to the nail and cut no closer than about 3 millimetres from the quick. With a little practice and patience, you'll be able to confidently trim your Shorkie's nails and keep them comfortable and healthy.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Clipper type | Scissor-type clippers are ideal for small dogs like Shorkies. Heavy-duty clippers are for large dogs and guillotine clippers are for medium-sized dogs. |
| Clipper usage | Hold the clippers at a right angle to the nail, with the tip of the nail between the blades. Firmly squeeze the handles to close the scissors and cut the nail. |
| Nail length | Nails should not be so long that they click on the floor. |
| Where to trim | For clear nails, cut no closer than about 3mm from the quick (which is pink). For black nails, cut about 3mm below the curve in the nail. |
| Dewclaws | Extra toes that are partway up the dog's legs. They don't touch the ground and don't need to be cut. |
| Nail quick | If cut, it will cause pain, bleeding and drama. |
| Nail polish | Use pet-safe nail polish that is made from natural ingredients and is non-toxic. |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right clippers
Size
The size of the clippers should correspond to the size of your dog's nails. For small dogs like Shorkies, opt for smaller clippers. Using clippers that are too large may crush your dog's nails. Look for clippers that fit comfortably in your hand, allowing you to have good control during the trimming process. Some clippers will have sizing guidelines on the packaging, specifying whether they are suitable for small, medium, or large breeds.
Style
There are three main styles of dog nail clippers: pliers, guillotine, and scissors.
- Pliers: These clippers have two spring-loaded handles that add force to cut through the nail. They usually have a dual-sided angled blade that meets in the middle. Pliers-style clippers are often designed for ambidextrous use, accommodating both right- and left-handed individuals.
- Guillotine: This style features a hole at the end of the handles where you place the nail. When the handles are squeezed, an internal blade rises to slice the nail. Guillotine clippers are typically recommended for medium-sized dogs and may not be suitable for small dogs like Shorkies as they can crush their tiny nails.
- Scissors: Scissor-style clippers are ideal for small dogs with thin nails. They work like regular scissors, providing a quick and precise cut. Look for scissor-style clippers with angled stainless steel blades for the best cutting angle.
Safety Features
Trimming dog nails can be tricky, as you want to avoid cutting into the quick, the vein inside the nail. Choose clippers with safety features such as nail guides or safety stops that help you control the amount of nail you're trimming. These features reduce the risk of cutting too far and causing pain or bleeding.
Blade Quality
Look for clippers with high-quality blades made of durable and rust-resistant materials. Stainless steel or carbonated steel blades are recommended as they are easy to clean and maintain. Sharp blades are essential for smooth and clean cuts, making the experience quicker and less stressful for your Shorkie.
Electric Nail Grinders
If your Shorkie is particularly averse to traditional clippers, you might consider using an electric nail grinder. Nail grinders file the nail down slowly, reducing the chances of cutting into the quick. They create a smooth edge and are safer for dogs with very small or sensitive nails. However, they may be time-consuming, especially if your dog moves around frequently during grooming.
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Getting your Shorkie comfortable
Start Early
If your Shorkie is a puppy, it is best to start introducing them to nail trimming early on. Puppies are more receptive to new experiences, and you can help them develop a positive association with nail trimming from the start. Begin by simply letting your puppy sniff and investigate the nail clippers while they are lying on the floor. You can then gradually progress to touching the paws with the clippers and making the clipping motion without actually cutting the nails.
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is key to making nail trimming a positive experience for your Shorkie. Pair nail trimming with treats and praise to help your dog develop a positive association. You can also use counter-conditioning, which involves giving your dog a treat while they are exposed to the nail clippers. This helps your dog associate the clippers with good things, making them more comfortable over time.
Go Slow
Take things slowly and don't rush the process. Work on getting your Shorkie comfortable with the sight and sound of the clippers first. Summon your dog and pick up the clippers, offering treats and praise to help them associate the clippers with positive experiences. Once they seem excited to see the clippers, you can gradually move closer to their paws.
Desensitize
The goal is to desensitize your Shorkie to nail trimming by gradually increasing their comfort level. Start by trimming just the very tip of one nail, providing treats and praise after each small step. Over time, you can work your way up to trimming more nails in a single session. Remember to always monitor your dog's response and be mindful of their level of tolerance.
Comfortable Positioning
Find a comfortable position for your Shorkie during the nail trimming process. You can let them sit on your lap or hold them gently. Ensure that they are in a relaxed state before beginning the trimming process.
Regular Maintenance
Regular nail maintenance is essential for your Shorkie's health and comfort. Long nails can cause discomfort and even lead to irreversible damage over time. By maintaining short nails, you promote your dog's overall well-being and make future trimming sessions easier.
Remember, the process of getting your Shorkie comfortable with nail cutting may take time, and that's okay! Be patient, consistent, and always provide positive reinforcement. With gradual exposure and plenty of treats, your Shorkie will eventually learn to tolerate, if not enjoy, their nail trimming sessions.
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How to hold the clippers
When holding the clippers, it is important to use the right type of clippers for your Shorkie. Scissor-type clippers are ideal for small dogs. Keep them as sharp as possible and follow the directions on the package. If you're unsure about the technique, check YouTube for guidance.
Now, to hold the clippers, place them at a right angle to your dog's nail. Ensure that the tip of the nail is positioned between the blades. Squeeze the handles firmly to close the scissors and cut the nail. Be mindful not to cut too close to the quick, the pink area inside the nail. Aim to leave about 3 millimetres between the quick and the cut. If your Shorkie has dark nails, trim one small slice at a time, starting from the tip.
As you cut, examine the exposed edge of the nail. Stop trimming when you notice a grey or pink oval, as this indicates the quick. Refrain from cutting into the quick, as it can cause pain, bleeding, and distress for your dog. It is crucial to pay close attention and proceed gradually to avoid any accidental nicks.
Holding the clippers correctly and knowing where to trim the nails takes practice and skill. It is important to be cautious and take your time during the process. If you're unsure or uncomfortable, consider seeking professional help from a veterinarian or a groomer to ensure your Shorkie's nails are trimmed safely and correctly.
Additionally, remember to have styptic powder or plain cornstarch on hand before you start trimming. If you do cut into the quick, dip your dog's paw into the powder to help stop the bleeding. It is always better to be prepared and have the necessary supplies ready beforehand.
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Where to cut
To cut a Shorkie's nails, you must first identify the 'quick' of the nail, which is the pink, live part of the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves. If you cut into this area, it will be painful and cause bleeding.
If your Shorkie has clear nails, you will be able to see the pink quick easily. Cut no closer than 3mm from this quick. If your Shorkie has darker nails, you will need to look closely for the curve in the nail, as this is where the quick ends. Again, cut 3mm below this curve. If you are unsure, trim a small sliver at a time, starting from the tip of the nail. As you cut, look at the exposed edge of the nail. Eventually, you will see a grey or pink oval appear, which indicates that you are approaching the quick. Stop trimming as soon as you see this oval.
It is important to get your Shorkie used to having its paws handled and manipulated. This will make the nail-cutting process easier and less stressful for both you and your dog. You can also get their nails cut at a vet or grooming parlour if you are unsure about doing it yourself. Remember, you don't have to cut all four paws at once.
Always have styptic powder or plain cornstarch on hand before you start trimming, as this will help stop any bleeding if you accidentally cut into the quick.
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What to do if you cut too close
If you cut your Shorkie's nails too short, don't panic, but it is important to act quickly. Firstly, you need to stop the bleeding. Apply something dog-safe that will thicken into a paste with water and cover the quick while it clots. Styptic powder, flour, cornstarch, or baking soda will work well. You can also use a styptic pencil, which is a great first aid tool. If you don't have any of these items, just hold a clean cloth on the bleeding nail, applying firm pressure.
It can take up to 4 minutes for a dog's nail to stop bleeding, so you may need to hold the cloth there for that long. If the bleeding doesn't stop after 5 to 10 minutes, or if the blood is really spurting, call your vet right away.
Once the bleeding has stopped, you will need to bandage the nail to keep it clean and prevent your dog from licking it. A little licking might not do any harm, but there's a risk of bacteria from your dog's mouth leading to an infection in their nail.
It can take up to two weeks for the nail to regrow and protect the quick, so be cautious when walking your dog during this time. If your dog is limping or seems uncomfortable, you may need to limit their exercise until the wound has healed.
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