Using pliers style clippers is a quick and uncomplicated way of cutting dogs’ nails. They are easy to handle and usually come with a safety guard to help avoid cutting into the quick. Their construction make them very sturdy and suitable for very large and thick nails.
Once you and your dog have become habituated with the pliers style clippers, cutting your dog’s nails should only take a few minutes.
Pliers style clippers will put an even pressure around the nail as they cut. This means that you will need to apply less pressure than with guillotine clippers. It also makes your dog’s nail less likely to crack or splinter.
However, if your dog already has cracked and splintered nails, you should use an electric grinder or manually file them to prevent further damage and allow them to heal.
In addition, pliers style clippers are very portable and they may be the better alternative for dogs that don’t like the sound of an electric grinder.
It is important that your dog nail clippers are sharp. Blunt clippers will crush rather than cut the nail and so may cause the nail to crack or split. In addition, blunt clippers will put unnecessary pressure on the nail which may be transmitted to the quick and cause your dog pain.
So if you think your clippers may have gone blunt, or are not of as good a quality as they should be, buy a new pair of good quality ones. It will make the job so much easier.
Good pliers style dog nail clippers should fit easily into your hand and allow you to maintain a firm grip. They should never jam and they should be of a solid construction. You don’t want your clippers to fall apart after being used just a few times.
Selecting the Best Pliers Style Clippers for Your Dog
- Make sure you choose the right size of clippers for you dog. Dog nails vary greatly in size and toughness.
- Sometimes the nail guard can get in the way and make it difficult to see what you’re doing. Ensure you get clippers that allow for moving the guard aside.
- Opt for dog nail clippers of stainless steel as they will remain sharp for longer.
- A non-slip handle and a comfortable grip will ensure you can work comfortably.
- On nails that are dry and brittle and crack easily use an electric dog nail grinder or a file manually with a dog nail file.
- If your dog has very large and thick nails consider using a grinder instead.