Liam Carter
Regular nail trimming is essential for the health and hygiene of your Shih Tzu. Long nails can cause discomfort and, in extreme cases, can curl back into the paw pad, causing pain and injury. It is recommended to start trimming your puppy's nails when they are young so that they become accustomed to the process. There are several types of dog nail trimmers available, including nail scissors, guillotine clippers, and grinder tools. When trimming, it is important to avoid cutting into the 'quick', the pink vein that runs through the nail, as this can cause bleeding and pain. To trim your Shih Tzu's nails effectively, it is best to start when they are relaxed and cooperative, and to take off small amounts regularly, rather than trying to trim very long nails.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How often | Every few weeks; more effective if a small amount is taken off weekly |
| Who can do it | Owner, groomer, or vet |
| Tools | Guillotine-type clippers, scissor-type clippers, nail grinder |
| Position | Dog lies on a table, sits, or lies on its side |
| Dewclaws | Tend to grow long and curl, so need trimming or surgical removal |
| Vein/quick | Should be avoided when trimming; more likely to bleed if trimming is delayed |
| Training | Start when the dog is young to get them accustomed to the process |
| Restraint | Sling, or another person holding the dog |
| Aftercare | Cornstarch or clotting powder to stop bleeding |
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What You'll Learn
How to handle your puppy's feet and trim their nails from a young age
Nail trimming can be a stressful experience for both puppies and their owners. To make the process as smooth as possible, it's important to start handling your puppy's feet and trimming their nails when they're young so that they become accustomed to the process. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Handling Your Puppy's Feet
Gently touch and hold your puppy's paws frequently, starting from the first day you bring them home. This will help them get used to the feeling of having their feet handled and reduce their sensitivity. Massage and play with their feet, offering treats and praise to create a positive association. Remember to always handle their feet gently and cheerfully.
Introducing Nail Trimming
Before introducing nail trimming, make sure you have the right tools. Use dog-specific nail clippers or grinders, as human nail clippers are not suitable for puppies. You can ask your veterinarian or groomer for recommendations. It's also a good idea to have styptic powder or an antibacterial agent on hand in case of accidental over-trimming.
When your puppy is comfortable with you handling their feet, start introducing the nail clippers. Show them the clippers and let them explore them while you offer treats and praise. This will help them associate the clippers with positive experiences. You can also pretend to clip their nails without actually doing so to get them used to the process.
Trimming Their Nails
Start by gently holding and squeezing your puppy's paw to extend the nail. If your puppy has light-coloured nails, you'll be able to see the quick, which is a pink line that you should avoid cutting. If their nails are dark, you may not be able to see the quick, so be extra cautious.
For the first trimming session, try trimming just the very tip of one front paw nail. Offer lots of praise and a treat if your puppy lets you. Repeat this process daily, gradually trimming more nails until your puppy is comfortable with the entire process. Always offer treats and praise to reinforce positive behaviour.
Regular Trimming
It's important to trim your puppy's nails regularly, as long nails can cause discomfort and pain when walking. Aim to trim a small amount off their nails weekly to maintain a healthy length. Regular exercise on hard surfaces, such as pavement or concrete, can also help keep their nails shorter for longer.
By following these steps and starting when your puppy is young, you can make nail trimming a stress-free and positive experience for both you and your furry friend.
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How to identify the 'quick' of the nail and avoid cutting it
The quick of a nail is the pink area that contains blood vessels. If your Shih Tzu has white nails, you will be able to see the quick as a pink line running partway up the nail. If your dog has black nails, you will not be able to see the quick, so look out for a chalky white or blackish circle in the centre of the nail as you get close to it.
The quick supplies blood to the nail and contains nerves, so it will hurt your dog and cause bleeding if it is cut. The quick grows longer with the nail, so if trimming is delayed, it will be closer to the surface and more likely to bleed during trimming. Regular nail trimming will cause the quick to recede, so shorter quicks are preferable for the dog's wellbeing and easier maintenance.
If you are unsure where the quick is, only trim a small amount from the tip of the nail, where the nail begins to curve. You can also use a dog-friendly nail grinder, which can be safer as you can periodically check the nail to ensure you don't go too far. Once you see a tiny lighter circle on the nail, you know you've gone as close to the quick as possible.
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How to choose the right nail clippers for your dog
When it comes to choosing the right nail clippers for your dog, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it's important to select a size that corresponds to your dog's nails. Smaller dogs generally require smaller clippers, while larger breeds need larger clippers. The clippers should also fit comfortably in your hand to ensure good control during trimming.
Another important consideration is the type of clippers. There are three main styles: plier, guillotine, and scissor. Plier-style clippers are suitable for both left- and right-handed users and often feature a tension spring that pushes the device open after each cut, reducing the need for filing. Guillotine clippers allow for cutting through nails with less pressure but can be challenging to master for beginners. Scissor-style clippers are ideal for small dogs and feature angled blades that provide the correct cutting angle.
The material of the clippers is also worth considering. Look for clippers with stainless steel or carbonated steel blades as they are durable, easy to clean, and resist rusting. Some clippers also offer replaceable blades, extending their lifespan. Additionally, consider safety features such as nail guides or safety stops that help prevent over-trimming and reduce the risk of cutting into the quick, the sensitive nerve ending inside the nail.
When choosing nail clippers, it's essential to prioritize your comfort and ease of use. The handle design should provide a secure grip, and some models feature rubber-coated handles for added comfort. Quiet clippers can be beneficial for timid dogs, and you may also opt for electric nail grinders that file nails down instead of cutting them, reducing the risk of cutting into the quick.
Lastly, reviews and recommendations from professionals can be valuable. The Millers Forge Professional Nail Clip is a popular choice among vets and groomers, known for its sharpness, affordability, and suitability for most dogs. The Safari Professional Nail Trimmer is another highly-regarded option, featuring a safety stop guide and a non-slip handle suitable for both left- and right-handed users.
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How to restrain your dog during nail trimming
Restraining your dog during nail trimming can be a challenging task. Here are some tips to help you through the process:
Firstly, it is essential to establish a positive association between nail trimming and rewarding experiences for your dog. This can be achieved through counter-conditioning, where you pair the nail-trimming process with treats and positive reinforcement. Gradually, your dog will begin to associate nail trimming with good things, making it easier to restrain them during the process.
Additionally, it is beneficial to train your dog to voluntarily offer a paw and hold it still for trimming. This technique, known as "shaping," involves reinforcing small pieces of the desired behavior until the complete behavior is achieved. By teaching your dog to place its paw on your leg, you can avoid the need for forceful restraint.
In some cases, you may find it helpful to have an assistant hold your dog during the nail-trimming process. This can be particularly useful if your dog is struggling or moving around too much. Ensure that your dog's face is turned away from you and your assistant to prevent accidental bites.
Another option is to use a sling to restrain your dog's movements. A sling can help keep your dog still, allowing you to focus on trimming their nails effectively. However, some dogs may still kick or try to run while in a sling, so it may not work for every dog.
If your dog has a history of aggression or resistance during nail trimming, it may be necessary to consult a trainer or behaviorist. They can provide behavioral lessons to address your dog's fear and aggression towards nail clipping. Alternatively, you can explore groomers who are experienced in handling dogs with similar issues.
Remember, it is crucial to remain calm, firm, and gentle throughout the process. Avoid punishing or getting upset with your dog, as it will only contribute to their stress and negative association with nail trimming.
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How to stop your dog's nail from bleeding if you cut it too short
Regular nail trimming is important for the health and comfort of your Shih Tzu. Walking on long nails can cause your dog's toes to spread apart, leading to an unnatural gait. Long nails can also snag and break off, causing profuse bleeding. Dewclaws, in particular, can curl around and pierce the dog's pads if left untrimmed.
If you cut your dog's nails too short, it can be painful and cause bleeding. However, this situation can be easily handled with the right knowledge and tools. Here are some steps to stop the bleeding:
Stay Calm
The first step is to stay calm and not panic. If you panic, your dog will sense it, and it may make the situation more difficult. Remember that accidents happen, and cutting nails too short is a common mistake.
Apply Pressure
Firm pressure on the bleeding nail tip can help slow the blood flow and allow platelets to adhere to the wound edges, promoting clotting. Hold a clean cloth or tissue on the nail for as long as your dog will tolerate.
Use Styptic Powder or Household Alternatives
Styptic powder is ideal for stopping nail bleeding, but if you don't have any on hand, you can use household items such as cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, or regular flour. Press the powder directly onto the nail, and reapply if necessary.
Bandage the Wound
After applying a powder to stop the bleeding, it is a good idea to bandage the wound to protect it and prevent your dog from licking it, which can reopen the wound. You can wrap the foot in a sock or a towel and secure it with a hair tie or rubber bands.
Seek Veterinary Care if Necessary
If the bleeding doesn't stop despite your attempts with household items, or if the toe becomes red or swollen, seek veterinary care to prevent infection. Some dogs may have medical conditions that affect their blood's ability to clot, so it is important to get professional help if needed.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to trim your Shih Tzu's nails every few weeks. This is because long nails can turn a sound paw into a splayed foot and reduce traction, causing deformed feet and injuring the tendons over an extended period.
There are several types of dog nail trimmers, including nail scissors, grinder tools, and guillotine types. You can use whatever type you’re most comfortable with, or whatever works best for your dog.
The nail contains a vein called the quick, which supplies blood to the nail. Cutting the quick will hurt the dog and cause bleeding. To avoid this, only cut the white part of the nail and avoid the pink part, which is the quick.
