Dog day grooming: 14 of the best nail clippers
ADVERTISEMENT: The pet shopping trip you didn't know you needed to take
Writer’s note: The following listicle was originally published on January 10, 2022 at the now-defunct website Dog Struggles. The original list included 30 options, but 16 are no longer available. (I’m playing favorites here, but the Dremel has been my go-to for three years. As long as that one made the cut, that’s what counted for me. Although I usually leave in all cons — or look for new ones if the old ones were outdated — cons like “my dog won’t let me” have been removed. That’s often the dog, not the clippers, that bring about this result. In the early stages, EVERY dog rebels. For this reason, and because most clippers are about the same physically, the intro for each item has a tip to make the pet nail clipping process easier.)
This listicle has been lightly edited for technical details and readability. (If you’re interested in reading non-pet-related top 10-, 15- and 20 lists, click here.)
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Grooming your dog can get expensive. Depending on the breed and where your dog lives, you can end up paying anywhere from $30 to $90 for keeping your dog well-groomed and nails clipped. If you have this money budgeted out, go for it.
Recommended Read: 5 ways for dog owners to save money while being pet-health friendly ~ PART 2 OF 5: Take advantage of donated pet supplies, giveaway bins, discount deals
But if you’re someone who would rather save a few dollars here and there, finding the best dog nail clippers can go a long way.
Before you embark on this adventure, be prepared for a few things. One, if you haven’t been clipping your dog’s nails since (s)he was a puppy, be prepared for hesitation, fear and a few leaps up the stairs. Two, it must be done anyway.
Recommended Read: “Clipping pet nails: Every dog is not the same ~ When you may want to leave the grooming to professionals”
You need to be able to keep your dog free of infections, eye mucus, excess debris, clean ears and nails that don’t click on the floor like he’s tap dancing. He may not appreciate you fiddling with him like a smartphone, but he’ll appreciate it later, specifically when he’s not slipping on the kitchen tile floors, living room laminate floors and basement cement.
1. Boshel
Before you get ready to clip your dog’s nails, spread out each of your dog’s feet. Look for dirt and debris, and wipe off the excess as needed. Now you’re ready to use these toenail clippers.
Key Features
3.5 mm thick stainless steel sharp blades
Deep blue
Ergonomic handles
This ergonomically designed set of clippers comes with a bonus nail file. If done correctly, the results will be smooth, quick and sharp cuts.
Pros
Non-slip handles
Safety guard to avoid overcutting
Cons
Multiple users complained of the spring locking up after one nail was clipped
When you’re done with the clippers, feel free to utilize the mini nail file that slides into the left handle.
2. Casfuy
When cutting your dog’s nails, cut from top to bottom at a slight angle instead of trying to clip the nail at a straight angle. Insert a small bit of the nail through the clipper opening, and avoid chopping off blunt angles.
Key Features
Diamond bit grinder
Built-in battery that lasts two hours after a three-hour charge
Three ports for various pet sizes (Small, Medium, Large)
Whether you’re choosing a large dog nail clipper or one of the smaller versions in dark blue or white, the sound should be reasonably nondisruptive. The motor has a “super-quiet technology that produces a very low vibration.”
Pros
Low noise nail grinder
Protective sleeve to keep grinder covered and avoid accidents
Cons
Three AAA batteries required (first three included though)
Multiple users complained that the charger doesn’t hold
If you’re not comfortable clipping your dog’s hooves, it’s not recommended to take off the guard protector.
3. Epica Professional
When cutting your dog’s nails, make sure you can still see the nail-colored area. Cut small pieces of each nail until you can see the beginning of the circle (the “quick” area). This vein runs through the nail and is quite sensitive. Do not damage it.
Key Features
Available in two sizes (Small/Medium, Large)
Heavy-duty spring action clippers
High-grade stainless steel
These tempered shears are good for a precise, safe cut. These semi-circular blades help you avoid guessing where to cut. You can see the clipping as you go. And you should be able to keep these clippers for the long haul, considering they shouldn’t bend, scratch or rust.
Pros
Safety lock to avoid potential accidents from children
Secure grip (rubber handles)
Cons
Several users complained that the guard was falling down or off
For pet owners of large dogs, make sure the nail is properly aligned in the larger slot. Do not use other clippers interchangeably.
4. Safari Professional
Does your dog have black nails? If so, trimming may be best left to professionals unless you feel confident that you can identify the “quick” area. Just be careful when clipping. Keep styptic powder or cornstarch nearby to stop any potential bleeding.
Key Features
Stainless steel cutters
Standard size
Sizes are standard and medium/large dog
Avoid accidents by utilizing the locking blades of this nail trimmer. Using a trimmer and the adjacent file work well together.
Pros
Intended for long-lasting sharp edges
Non-slip grip
Cons
One user complained about difficulty seeing the cutting edge
A few users complained that the blade wasn’t sharp enough
This company supports organizations such as the Morris Animal Foundation, Leader Dogs for the Blind and the Animal Behavior College.
5. HAWATOUR
If you’re worried about pressure on the nails, know that it only takes a gentle squeeze. Precise cutting is not only helpful for your dog but also avoids the stress of repeats on the same nail.
Key Features
Safety guard and lock
Ultra-sharp stainless steel blade
Rubber-Coated Handles
Use the gentle handles on these clippers (available in five colors) to apply pressure without excessive hand strength. Once you’re done, use the nail file (included) in the package to sharpen nails as needed.
Pros
Prevents overcutting
Sharp blade edges
Cons
A few users complained that the blade was dull
Lots of mixed opinions about not clipping nails at all or “splitting like sunflower seeds”
In the beginning stages of filing a dog’s nail, make sure to give the dog a treat after each clip. Eventually, you may work your way up to one treat after the grooming is all done.
6. Millers Forge
When choosing dog nail clippers, it’s important to make sure the nails have smooth edges. Avoiding ragged edges not only will be a relief to your dog but also to your furniture and floors.
Key Features
Large size
German sharp stainless steel cutting blades
Intended for large dogs (more than 40 pounds)
Made in Italy, the brand self-labels as the “number 1 choice of veterinarians and groomers and will outlast any other nail clipper.”
Pros
One user liked the clippers so much that this person bought the same type of pair three or four more times
Soft and swift enough for one dog who wouldn’t let a groomer clip nails
Cons
Not designed for small dogs
One user complained that the clippers may squeeze shut after clipping
Although these clippers are designed for large dogs, there were several users who mentioned that they didn’t work for their dogs. Consider the thickness, too, when purchasing this product. Not all large dogs have the same nail texture.
7. Resco Deluxe
If your dog’s nails are black or you’re just not confident in clipping, try a little bit at a time. Then touch the nail you’ve clipped. If it feels spongy while you’re cutting it, you’ve gone too far and cut the quick.
Key Features
Patented blade replacement technology
Premium powder coat
Resco invented the guillotine style nail trimmer in 1937
Intended for deluxe style, performance and comfort, this blade should be intuitive to use. And when you’re done, the cutting blade can be replaced. You don’t have to keep paying to replace the trimmer.
Pros
Deluxe grips
Durable construction
Cons
A few users reported having to complete multiple clips on one nail
These clippers are covered by a conditional lifetime warranty.
8. Casifor
Whether you use a nail grinder or clippers, follow the same method. Hold your dog’s paw, turn on the grinder, and aim to clip once and precisely.
Key Features
10-15 hours working time
White
Two speeds (slow and fast)
This professional pet nail trimmer includes a USB wire to connect to your laptop when the battery dies. This cordless dog grinder, with three size ports, has multiple speeds for you to trim dogs at various sizes and stages. suitable for small, medium and large dogs, cats, birds, rabbits
Pros
Dust collection cap
Low noise is controlled to 40 dB
Cons
One user reported the grinder wheel flew off on first use
This heavy-duty electric nail grinder is suitable for small, medium and large dogs, cats, birds, and rabbits.
9. Dremel
Although there are complex opinions regarding dewclawing, should you choose not to, proper maintenance of dewclaws is just as important. If they grow too long (from not touching the ground), they can grow into a dog’s foot. And this is quite painful.
Key Features
Rotary grinding and grooming tool
4-volt lithium battery with micro-USB charging
Option to choose four or 10 sanding bands
If you’re not quite sure whether you prefer clippers or grinders, try both. Your dog will be the final judge on which one works best, but it couldn’t hurt to learn the perks of both. This kit comes with a cordless pet nail groomer, 408 ½” 60 grit sanding bands (x4), 407 ½” 60 grit sanding band and drum mandrel (x1) and a micro-USB charging cable.
Pros
30% more runtime
Lightweight
Cons
Multiple users said the charge won’t hold
AJ Dremel manufactured the first rotary tool. Whether small, medium or large, and all ages, this dremel is designed for all.
10. Dudi
If ever you needed a reliable source, these stainless steel dog nail clippers were created by two veterinarians with 30 years of experience that were tested by everyday dogs. Suitable for both large and small dogs, make sure to check for scaly noses and paw pads. Coconut oil should be able to treat that.
Key Features
Ergonomic design handles
Three sizes (3.5 x 1.2, 4.7 x 1.5, 6.2 x 1.9)
Quick safety guard
These high-quality, blue clippers should be durable one year later. Intended to avoid overcutting toenails, the safety stop makes sure that nails are not cut down too short.
Pros
Safety guard to prevent overcutting
Non-slip, comfort grip handles
Cons
Sizes seem to be for only small, X-small or large dogs, not medium-sized dogs
One user complained of rust after a year of use
Although these clippers should be wear-resistant and durable for years to come, wipe off hair and debris to make sure it doesn’t collect. If they don’t work out, the product has a lifetime guarantee.
11. Helishy
Unfortunately, some dogs may have longer quicks than others. Take note if you accidentally clip the quick on one to make sure the rest of the nails are longer. Some dog breeds such as pugs, Springer spaniels or border collies may be more likely to have longer quicks.
Key Features
LED light
5x magnification lens
Doubles as a nail clipper
If you’re tired of the messy results from grooming and clipped nails going missing, then this nail trapper will come in handy for keeping track of all of them. Also, should you happen to accidentally cut the quick, you will have an instant reminder of how long that nail was to avoid repeats.
Pros
Quick-clip precision
Comfortable handle
Cons
May not illuminate dark or colored nails
Not suitable for large pets
With the LED light, you can more easily see the bloodline in your pet. This takes all the guess work and wrestling from trying to guess the old-fashioned way of pet grooming.
12. Shiny Pet
So what’s the deal with ergonomic handles? It turns out a lot. Depending on how thick the nails are, it’s too easy for some clippers to slide in the wrong direction when applying pressure. This puts your dog at too great of a risk.
Key Features
Stainless steel
Nail trimmer fitted with a straight blade
Ergonomic handles
The safety guard and quick sensor prevent accidental cuts, too-sharp cuts and/or dog paw injuries. Use the e-book guide as a reference tool should you want to brush up on your clipping routine and for newbies, too.
Pros
Finger rests
Safety locking clip
Cons
A few users complained of blade dullness
One user said clippers broke after two uses
These clippers are backed by a lifetime money-back guarantee.
13. H&H Pets
If you trim your dogs’ nails long enough — and you’re lucky — they’ll start letting you know when the nails need to be trimmed again. They may even start gnawing at their own nails as a hint. Watch their behavior before their nails are trimmed, after nails are trimmed and when you start seeing signs of new nail growth again.
Key Features
Stainless steel
Ergonomic handle
Non-slip and easy-grip handles
This hypoallergenic, stainless steel blade is durable, and allows you to grip the handle securely. Use them for kittens and dogs, and other vet-approved pets that may need nail clippings.
Pros
Hypoallergenic
Lightweight
Cons
May lead to shredding and jagged edges, according to a few users
Clippers broke after four nails were cut on a 24-pound dog, according to another reviewer
These clippers are covered by a 60-day money back guarantee and a three-year product warranty.
14. DiggerDog Nail File
If ever you needed to make a dog game out of grooming, this little box filing option is it. Not only will your dog try his best to get to the treats. But he can help with the grooming process himself by digging his way to the treats inside.
Key Features
Stainless steel
Abrasive plate
Suitable for large and small dogs
As with any new toy or game, this Australian-designed nail kit may take a bit of time to get your dog to use his paw to get to the treat instead of his nose. Oftentimes dogs will sniff first and push their way to the door. Demonstrating with your own hands may make him use his paws, too.
Pros
Encourages an already-fun game for dogs: digging
Food compartment for hidden treats
Cons
As with any other toy, some dogs just won’t “play” with it, according to a few users
One user’s dog learned how to just take the treat out without scratching
Ideal for dogs who don't tolerate traditional nail trimming tools, you may have to make a “play” time out of this so they’ll get used to helping to keep their nails short as needed. Make sure to put it away so the “game” doesn’t become something they abandon like an old toy.
Bottom Line
As you can see from the 14 dog nail clippers and grinder options above, some are a big hit with certain consumers while others did not work out. While there are legitimate complaints about nail clippers that simply do not work at all and/or don’t work for certain dogs, keep in mind that learning how to use dog nail clippers properly is half the battle.
Assuming that the nail clippers are sharp enough and the handles are easy to operate, clipping nails on a dog should become a pretty simple thing to do. Both you and your dog should be able to avoid splinters, awkward breaks, bleeding and injuries. And if/when you find the clippers that make this easy to do, buy a couple more and share with your dog-owning friends, too.
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Shamontiel is a dog lover to her core: 604 completed walks with 99 dogs, eight dog-housesittings and six dog boardings at the time of this publication.
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