7 ways to sedate dog to keep calm when using nail clippers (2024)

Trimming your dogs’ nails isn’t an activity you should do without planning. Unlike humans, you need to psychologically prepare dogs before cutting their nails. Chances are good that your pet will resist if you don’t do things right.

You even run the risk your dog will bite you to avoid having his nails trimmed. Dogs easily get distracted and dislike sitting still when you try to use toenail clippers on them.

Giving your dog medicine to make him sleepy before cutting his nails will help him relax. This, in turn, will make it easier for you to trim his nails.

Keep reading to discover how to sedate a dog for nail clipping.

Sedation process

Over-the-counter sedatives

There are many over-the-counter drugs out there that you can use to sedate your dog for nail trimming. Your dog doesn’t need to be scared or nervous during nail trimming.

Sedatives block the central nervous system, eliminating anxiety by making the dog relaxed and comfortable.

Be sure to use the correct dose for your dog’s size. For example, large dog breeds or high-energy dogs may need more than a toy or small dog.

1. Benadryl:This mild antihistamine sedative helps calm your pet when it is nervous about clipping its nails.
2. Melatonin supplements:Help regulate body rhythm and help calm down your dog.
3. Natural sedation methods:Herbs like California poppy, chamomile, rosemary, or valerian are natural relaxants.
4. Calming bites

Or try these natural sedation methods that help calm dogs. They calm dogs, so you don’t have to worry about them getting upset when you use nail clippers.

Prepare chamomile tea and give it to him. Alternatively, soak your dog’s favorite treats in the chamomile tea and let him eat it.

Mix it with a skullcap, catnip, and hot water for a more relaxing chamomile tea. Pour some honey and give it to the dog when it’s warm.

Dogs get anxious, and you can use this herb to calm their nerves before trimming their nails.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy relaxes and helps your dog fall asleep. Use some lavender oil for massaging your dog to calm it down. Make sure to rub the back of its head using your hands.

Don’t forget to stroke down the base of the spine. Massaging helps stop the production of cortisol, reducing stress on your dog.

When your dog is calm enough, you can prepare your clippers, nail file, or a dog nail grinder.

Pheromones

Use products containing this hormone to give your dog the motherly scent to keep him calmer and reassured.

Supplements

Use supplements like melatonin to keep your dog sedated before the nail-clipping process.

How to cut a dog’s claws

Be careful not to accidentally hurt your pet when using dog nail trimmers or grinders. Use clippers or scissors with sharp, stainless steel blades.

Put your dog in a comfortable position. You can let the dog sit on your lap or hold him. Get help from someone if you are unsure how to cut a dog’s claws by yourself while holding him.

Identify the ideal cutting range for the nails. Use metal clippers and cut the nail bit by bit until you reach the safety stop point. The best way to help your dog enjoy the process is by rewarding him at every step. The dog will stay calmer, waiting for you to finish each step.

When you reach the black place on the nail, it’s time to stop clipping. Avoid clipping till you reach the quick, innervated, and vascularized inner part of the nail, which is very soft. If you cut the quick accidentally, you will hurt your dog and cause the dog’s foot to bleed.

Remember, the next time your dog sees clippers, he likely won’t stay still.

Potential sedation dangers

Sedation dangers or potential side effects are a genuine concern when calming your dog during nail-clipping sessions.

While sedating your dog may seem easy, knowing the potential risks and dangers associated with sedation is vital.

One of the main concerns with sedating dogs is the potential for adverse reactions or side effects.

Sedatives work by altering the brain’s chemical balance, which can lead to unpredictable and potentially dangerous behavior in some dogs.

There have been cases where dogs have become more agitated or aggressive after being sedated, causing harm to themselves or their owners.

Another danger of sedation is the risk of overdose. Determining the appropriate dosage for each dog can be challenging, as factors such as age, weight, and overall health can affect how they respond to medication.

Giving too much sedative can result in respiratory distress or even death.

Furthermore, certain breeds of dogs may be more sensitive to certain sedatives.

For example, brachycephalic breeds (dogs with short noses) may have difficulty breathing under sedation due to their narrowed airways, increasing their risk for complications during the procedure.

Additionally, there is always a chance that your dog may have an allergic reaction to the medication used for sedation, which could result in symptoms such as swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing.

It is also important to note that even with proper dosage and monitoring, there is still a small risk of complications during and after sedation.

These include decreased heart rate and blood pressure, slowed breathing, and prolonged recovery.

Alternatives to sedation

Sometimes, it takes a little distraction to calm your dog during nail-trimming.

One technique is using treats or peanut butter on a lick mat, spread on the floor or wall at eye level so your dog can focus on licking while you clip their nails.

Playing music or white noise can help drown out sounds from the clippers.

Some dogs may even benefit from having their favorite toys nearby while getting their nails trimmed.

Training can help reduce your dog’s stress during nail trimming.

By gradually introducing the tools used for grooming and rewarding your dog with treats after each successful session, you can help build positive associations with these activities.

One training method is counter-conditioning, where you associate nail-clipping with something your dog loves.

Give your dog a treat every time you show them the clippers. Stop and reward your dog for remaining calm during the trimming process.

If all else fails, consider seeking professional grooming services. A trained and experienced groomer will have the skills and techniques to handle dogs of all temperaments and keep them calm during nail clipping.

Precautions

Accidents are inevitable; sometimes, you might cut the dog and cause bleeding. If you realize the quick is bleeding, do not panic. Put some pressure on the tip of the nail. You can also dip the nail in Styptic powder.

Another alternative would be placing ice cubes on the wounded area.

When using over-the-counter drugs to sedate dogs to trim nails, seek advice from a vet. Consult with your vet to determine the correct dosage.

When clipping the nails, have patience, and do it slowly so you won’t hurt the pup. Watch for two dark dots when trimming the middle of the nail. These two dots are where the quick starts. Avoid cutting the quick and hurting your dog.

Keeping up with your dog’s nails is ideal, but you can work with your dog’s nails when they get too long.

If you’re wondering how to trim overgrown dog nails, the process is the same. But you may need to make short trims to get the nails to an ideal length.

Don’t forget to trim your dog’s dew claws, the nail higher up on your dog’s paw that doesn’t touch the ground. If you don’t cut your dog’s dew claws, they can snag on things because they don’t wear down naturally when walking.

Alternative dog nail clipping methods

• Get rough mats for your dog to scratch on. This way, it will file its nails without cutting. Get mats designed to wear down the long claws of pets.
• Get sandpaper and place it on the ground, then let your dog scratch on it. Be careful and supervise your dog.
• Try clipping its nails while the dog’s sleeping. Be cautious while doing this, as dogs’ feet are sensitive even when sleeping. Use the best pet nail clippers that make no sound for a more effective way to cut your dog’s nails while sleeping.
• Replace dog nail clippers with Dremel tools to trim down the nail. You can also use the tools to file down rough edges.

Reward your dog with a treat

Your dog managed to stay still and let you cut his nails. Show your appreciation by rewarding your pup with a treat. This will make him happy and motivate him to cooperate the next time his nails need clipping again.

Sedate dog to trim nails

It’s easy to notice when your dog’s nails are long and need clipping.

There is no need to spend much money paying professional groomers or vets to clip your dog’s nails. Sedate your pup and use a pair of high-quality nail clippers to do the job yourself.

If your dog is still stubborn, do not force the situation.

Wait for another time or another day to try cutting his nails again. Train your dog to get comfortable around the nail clippers before trimming the nails.

It’s also crucial for you to remain calm.

If you’re nervous, your dog will be anxious too.

If you can’t get your dog to calm down, consult with your vet to see if it makes sense to useprescription drugs to calm your dog. Oral medications like Trazodone, Diazepam, Acepromazine, Valium, or Gabapentin can help reduce anxiety.

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