The Best Dog Nail Clippers for Your Dog

Our dog’s nails are continuously growing. And while walking your pup regularly can wear down their claws, most dogs still need their nails trimmed regularly. Take advantage of dog accessories like high-quality clippers to make quick work of clipping your dog’s nails. The best dog nail clippers can also reduce the risk of frayed nails, mis-snipping, and jagged edges that can make nails too sharp.

Why Does Quality Matter When it Comes to Dog Nail Clippers?

“My dog hates having their nails trimmed. Does it really make a difference if I skip it?” While a nail trim may seem unimportant, clipping your dog’s nails regularly is an essential part of providing your pup with their best life. Nail trims aren’t just about looks. They keep your dog healthy and active.

Long nails can catch on your rugs and clothing, and they can lead to cuts and scrapes for you and your pup. When your dog’s nails become too long,  it can also lead to long-term joint pain, trouble walking, and difficulty standing. Skipping nail trims can have a profound effect on your dog’s health and wellbeing.

Most importantly, keeping your dog’s paws healthy keeps your dog happy. When your dog is able to play, run, and walk without discomfort, they are more likely to partake in the activities they love. And guess what? These activities keep your pup’s health in order as well.

How to Select the Best Dog Nail Clippers for Your Pup’s Needs

When it comes to selecting a set of dog nail clippers, you will have three options to choose from. Whether you use a combination or one type of tool will depend on your dog’s needs and your preference.

You will want to select a dog nail clipper style that is easy for you to use and is safe for your dog. 

1. Guillotine Nail Clippers

These clippers are designed to quickly and easily snip your dog’s nail. They have a circle that you slip your dog’s nails into and squeeze the handles. This will send a blade down to clip the nail at the centre of the ‘loop.’ 

Because the blade isn’t as thick as other clipper styles, these clippers often are not strong enough to slice through large dogs’ nails. 

Best for:

• Small Dogs
• Medium Dogs

2. Scissor Clippers

Scissor clippers look a lot like a tool you may have in your toolbox, but they have a very specific use. These heavy-duty clippers are stronger than guillotine clippers.

Scissor clippers often have rubber grip handles and a small metal piece that can work as a depth guide, so you do not clip off too much nail (even with this guide--you can still cut off too much of your dog’s nail).

To use the scissor clippers, slip the opening over your dog’s nail and squeeze. You want to pay attention to the angle you cut at, so the nail ends up laying flat on the floor post-clipping.

Best for:

• Large Dogs
• Extra-Large Dogs

3. Puppy Nail Clipper Scissors

These nail scissors are a miniature version of the scissor clippers, which make them perfect for the miniature version of dog--puppies! They fit perfectly in your hand and have a smaller slicing blade. 

Perfect for:

• Puppies
• Small Dogs

4. Dog Nail Grinder

Dog nail grinders look like a small power tool but are designed to grind or file away the nail instead of clipping it. While these clippers work well for removing a small amount of nail at a time, they can be ineffective for some larger dogs with thicker nails. The noise and vibration can also frighten some dogs, making the delicate job of nail clipping even more tedious.

Because nail grinders take a bit longer, since they only remove a tiny amount of nail at a time, it can take a longer amount of time to get all of your dog’s nails fully clipped.

Best for:

• Dog with dark nails
• Smoothing your dog’s nails after clipping

Choosing Dog Nail Clippers

So, which dog nail clippers are worthy of your dog?  Whether you’re looking for a set of scissor clippers, guillotine clippers, or a grinder, here are some products we love:

1. Rufus & Coco Nail Clippers and File

Rufus & Coco dog nail clippers keep a sharp blade that makes easy work of trimming your pup’s nails. These high-quality clippers also have a file to soften those sharp edges for a safe pet-icure.

2. Miller’s Forge Guillotine Nail Trimmer

This set will last you a lifetime. The blades are made from carbon steel, which stays sharper longer, but if they do go dull, you can replace the blade instead of buying a new pair. 

3. Dremel PawControl Dog Nail Grinder

When it comes to grinders, Dremel knows what they’re doing. This grinder collects the dust to make the job less messy and its motor is powerful enough to get the job done quickly. The PawControl grinder is also pretty quiet compared to others and has three-speed settings for better control.

4. Zen Clipper Puppy Scissors

These neat little scissors make quick work of clipping and smoothing your puppy’s nails. They are designed to be ergonomic and durable, made from stainless steel.

Happy Paws = A Healthy Dog

When it comes to clipping your dog’s nails, keep in mind that practice makes perfect, but having the best dog nail clippers for your best friend makes a big difference as well. Whether you have a St. Bernard or a Chihuahua, your dog will appreciate a pawidure and quality nail clippers. Learn more at-home grooming tips with our how-to dog grooming guide!

Can’t find the time, patience, or gumption to clip your dog’s nails? Don’t hesitate to take your pup to a groomer.