I have a little dacshund and he has to have his nails trimmed. problem is he has black nails so how do i know where to trim up to? plz help! thanks alot!
2007-06-21 10:47:36 · 10 answers · asked by none 1 in Pets ➔ Dogs
The best way with black nails is to just trim off small amounts, and keep doing that until you see a black dot appear toward the center of the nail--that's where the quick begins, and where you should stop.
2007-06-21 10:55:04 · answer #1 · answered by Scout 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋
The best answer was the one explaining about the black dot in the center of the nail. It didn't explain far enough though. The black is the dried blood from the vein that runs in the center of every dog's nail. When you are clipping and see that you need to stop when this about half the size of the whole nail. And yes, always have quick stop on hand.
2007-06-21 18:15:22 · answer #2 · answered by DaveSFV 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I personally don't like to trim the black nails. I nicked it too short once and that was it for me. I now pay $5 to a local groomer (quite reasonable) for a walk in nail trimming every 4-8 weeks. They have never "accidentally cut to short".
2007-06-21 17:52:35 · answer #3 · answered by Shadow's Melon 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I take all by dogs to the vet every 6 months anyway and while we are there, they do the nails (and anal sacs). Then in between times I take the nail clippers and clip just a tiny tiny little scaredy-cat bit off each nail. It probably doesn't even do anything really, but I've cut too short a couple of times and made the nail bleed. I thought I'd pass out I felt so bad. It makes me feel a little yukky just remembering it......
2007-06-21 18:00:54 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
there's a tiny crevice where the quick ends and the dry nail begins. it's very easy to hit the quick no matter how good you are with it. go to any pet department or pet store and get a jar of quick stop. IF you nick the quick, put a bit of this powder on the tip of the nail, hold it there for about 5 seconds and the bleeding will stop. All else fails, go to the Vet and let them trim.
2007-06-21 17:59:56 · answer #5 · answered by sred 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You take the clipper drag it along the nail and if it hooks that is where you cut. I have had black Miniature Schnauzers and now I have brown and that is how one of my vets long time assistants explained the safest procedure. It works for me. Got to go my dogs want to play. Makes you wonder who is TOP DOG?
2007-06-21 18:14:20 · answer #6 · answered by CommonSense 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
i would suggest not doing it yourself. it's really better to take them to a pet store and get it done. my pomeranian has black nails too so i would have the same problem. however, i'm afraid that if i try to cut them, he will move and i will cut to far or have some sort of accident. so... my best suggestion would be to have a groomer or someone experienced do it for you. :] hope this helps.
2007-06-21 18:11:37 · answer #7 · answered by Jane 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Ask vet to do it first time and get them to show you. i have heard of dogs nails being filed or ground.If its not his dew claws then pavement walking should prevent them needing trimming in future.
2007-06-21 17:56:27 · answer #8 · answered by lucky j 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree 100% with Shadow's Melon. For the small amount it costs to have it professionally done it's just not worth risking hurting your loving, trusting dog!
2007-06-21 17:59:47 · answer #9 · answered by 5gr8k9s 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Take him to the groomers. It's easier that way..
2007-06-21 17:53:06 · answer #10 · answered by Stanley the Westie 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋