Tips for trimming nails on a skittish rescue dog that resists?

Question

Have a spunky new rescue chihuahua mix and she is skittish. So much so she will resist any efforts to trim her nails. We have 4 dogs so I have trimmed nails hundreds of times--but with Ricki Ricardo, no luck. I sit on the floor and flip them over and cradle them between my legs. My wife distracts them with peanut butter on a spoon. Besides going to a groomer or vet, any ideas? I thought maybe a groomer table might help. Are there premium nail cutters of higher quality than store bought? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 8 lbs

Dr. Elizabeth · Accepted Answer

Congratulations on your new dog Ricky Ricardo! In my opinion, there’s not really a superior nail trimmer but for small breed dogs, the AKC does recommend the guillotine type as compared to the scissor type. Try conditioning Ricky to have a positive association with the clippers. This can be managed with high value treats and clicker training. Basically you start by rewarding her every time she looks at the clippers (click. treat). Then you gradually bring the clippers closer and touch her with the clippers. Every time she gets a reward. Then you slowly progress to clipping 1 nail (click. treat). And so on and so forth. It may not always be easy but it’s a start and hopefully she will allow it to happen. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Tips for trimming nails on a skittish rescue dog that resists?

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