How To Cut Dog Nails Guillotine

Guillotine nail trimmers are dog owners’ most popular tools for trimming their pet’s nails.

But using this type of trimmer can be tricky and even dangerous if you’re not careful.

This article will show you how to use a guillotine nail trimmer properly.

That way, you can keep your dog’s nails healthy and well-groomed.

Read on for tips on how to cut dog nails guillotine.

How To Clip Your Dog’s Nails With Guillotine Clipper

Clipping your dog’s nails is important to ensuring their comfort and overall well-being.

The process is straightforward if using a guillotine clipper, but it should still be done carefully.

  • Start by brushing your dog’s fur away from the nail so that you can see it.
  • Then, slowly work the clipper between the dog’s paw and the end of its nail and put enough pressure to ensure the blade enters through the relaxed nail.
  • Lastly, applying gentle pressure on top of the clipper downward, quickly cut through the nail smoothly.
  • After clipping each nail, give your pup plenty of praise for behaving and treats for staying still throughout!

How To Get Your Dog Used To The Guillotine Clipper

For many dog owners, trimming their dog’s nails can be a scary process.

The sound and feel of using a guillotine clipper can be jarring for both you and your pet.

To help ease the transition to this type of nail-cutting instrument, getting your puppy used to the guillotine clipper before actually using it is important.

A good way to start is by getting them acquainted with the clipper before turning it on.

Let them sniff and explore the tool with you nearby so that you are right with them at every step if they need reassurance.

It might also be beneficial to try offering treats while your pup interacts with the tool!

Are Guillotine Dog Nail Clippers Better Than Bypass Types? What’s The Difference?

Choosing between different types of dog nail clippers can be confusing.

Knowing the differences is important to make the right choice for your pup.

Guillotine-style nail clippers feature a single, circular blade pushed down over the nail.

Bypass nail clippers have two blades that pass by each other like scissors. 

Both styles can be effective when used correctly and properly maintained.

However, one may be better suited than the other, depending on your pet’s size and nail thickness.

Most of the time, guillotine-style clippers are better than bypass clippers for medium-sized to large dogs with thick nails because they cut thick nails better.

Because they cut like scissors, bypass clippers are good for small breeds with thin nails because they give you more control and precision.

In the end, it’s important to do your research and choose the option that makes you and your four-legged friend the most comfortable and safe.

Choosing The Right Guillotine Dog Nail Clippers

When it comes to finding the perfect guillotine dog nail clipper, there are a few things that should be taken into consideration.

First of all, you want to make sure that the clippers you choose are made of strong materials.

And that it can handle being used often or being handled roughly.

Additionally, look for a pair with an ergonomic handle, as this will allow you to grip firmly while maintaining comfort while in use.

Also, make sure they have sharp, precise blades.

A dull blade can do more harm than good by crushing the nails instead of cutting them cleanly.

Also, consider purchasing from a reputable brand for premium quality at affordable prices.

It’s easy to find the right guillotine dog nail clippers when you remember these tips!

How To Sharpen Guillotine Dog Nail Clippers

Sharpening guillotine dog nail clippers is an important step in providing your pet with an at-home grooming experience they’ll enjoy.

You will need a sharpening stone and mineral oil to sharpen the clipper’s blades.

First, ensure the stone has been soaked in the oil for a few minutes before beginning.

Start by running the blade slightly down the stone a few times to remove buildup and burrs.

Then use more pressure while applying an angle between 30 to 45 degrees from the stone surface.

Clean off any debris when finished, and test out the sharpness of your nail clipper before using it on your pup!

How To Tell If Your Dog’s Nails Need Clipping

Knowing when it’s time to clip your dog’s nails is important for helping keep your dog healthy and comfortable.

Generally, if you can hear the clicking sound of them making contact with hard surfaces as they walk, that can indicate their nails need a trim.

If you can feel the sharp tip of the end of their nails while giving them a gentle petting, this is also an indication that they need their nails cut. 

When in doubt, speak to your veterinarian to get an expert opinion on if and when clipping may be necessary.

What To Do If You Cut Your Dog’s Quick!

If you accidentally cut your dog’s nails too short and hit the quick, don’t panic! 

You should take a few steps immediately to help minimize any discomfort for your pup.

First, apply pressure with a clean gauze or cotton swab until the bleeding slows.

Then, a disinfectant or styptic powder must be applied to stop the bleeding.

Even if it takes several days, try not to clip the nails again until they have grown enough that no quick is visible.

When you use a guillotine-style nail clipper on your dog in the future, keep in mind that most experts say to only cut a small amount at a time.

In this worst-case scenario, it can also be helpful to talk to your vet about ways to numb your dog’s paw before trimming it.

How Short Should You Cut Your Dog’s Nails?

Knowing how short to cut your dog’s nails is important for various reasons.

Not only does it protect your pup from painful overgrown nails, but it can also help avoid major medical problems.

A guillotine clipper is a common tool used at home for trimming a dog’s nails. 

Using this tool, you should aim to get the nail tip within ¼ inch from their paw pad.

Then use the file attachment that most clippers come with to smooth out any jagged edges.

Remember that you should never cut back into the nails quick where the vein will be present, as this can cause severe bleeding and pain.

If unsure, consult a vet or groomer to ensure the proper technique is used when cutting your dog’s nails.

Clipping your dog’s nails is a job that many pet owners dread.

However, with the right tools and a little patience, it can become an easy task that you and your pup will look forward to.

Guillotine nail clippers offer an additional level of security compared to bypass trimmers.

Some pet parents may feel more comfortable using them for at-home grooming.

Also, guillotine trimmers can help keep your dog’s nails from getting too long or cut unevenly if you use them right and often.

Before you start, though, make sure your clippers are sharp by following the steps the manufacturer gives you.

Follow this guide on how to use a guillotine clipper to cut your dog’s nails.

And as long as you have cornstarch and tasty treats on hand, everything should be fine in the end.

Before You Go…

You now know the answer to the question, “How to cut dog nails with guillotine?”.

If you want to learn more, read the following articles too!

Mena Emad, DVM
Mena has a Bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine. His expertise, passion for animal welfare, extensive knowledge, and experience in the field of veterinary medicine make him an excellent resource for our readers.