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Best Nail Clippers for Small Dogs: Top 7 Products in 2020 Reviewed
How We Found the Best Nail Clippers for Small Dogs
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Many owners are afraid of “quicking” their dog’s nails, which is the primary reason why they avoid trimming the nails. Don’t be like that. Nail cutting is a crucial part of the grooming process, and because we want to help you with it, we reviewed some of the best nail clippers for small dogs.
You’ll find the usual suspects on the list. We went with Safari Professional as our best pick due to durability. They have the most durable clippers, and they provide long-lasting results for trimming.
With that in mind, we will also help you answer some of the common questions about nail clipping. For example, how do you use a dog nail clipper? How long should dog nails be? Nail cutting doesn’t have to be an event shrouded in drama, anxiety, and stress.
Our Reviews
Best Overall
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1. Safari Professional Dog Nail Trimmer
Safari has a wide range of products for grooming your fur baby. That includes scissor clippers, guillotine clippers, and dog nail files. We picked the scissor clippers because of their durability and sharpness. Made from the finest quality stainless steel, the clippers provide a long-lasting, sharp cutting edge that makes trimming a simple grooming task.
For best results, the company recommends using the nail file as well. The clippers have a non-slip grip, making them easy to hold. They work for small and medium-sized dogs. The clippers have locking blades and rubber-coated handles.
Why do we like it?
- Provides a sharp cutting edge
- High durability
- Long-lasting results
Best Premium
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2. Epica Professional Pet Nail Clipper
There is a small difference between Epica and Safari. Both products are amazing, and both have high grades and ratings on Amazon. We went with Safari for top best, and Epica as our premium option. Epica delivers clippers with sharp blades that let you work faster and use less effort.
The best part about Epica is the correct spacing of the blades. It’s the right amount of space, making them effective and safe. Designed for small and medium-sized dogs, they work for Terriers, Poodles, Bulldogs, and similar breeds.
The best part about Epica is they lock closed when not in use. The safety mode prevents curious children from getting hurt.
Why do we like it?
- 100% lifetime warranty
- Rubber-coated handles
- Correct spacing of the blades
- Locks when not in use
Best Budget
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3. Millers Forge Stainless Steel Clippers
Millers Forge weighs a bit more than regular clippers, but that’s because they are sturdy and durable. You can be sure these clippers will get the job done, even on thick nails. The spring-loaded cutting mechanism delivers positive cutting action. The clippers have a positive built-in guard that you can move into a position to prevent overcutting, which is why we picked them as the best dog nail clippers with a sensor.
Made in the USA, they deliver great quality. You can use them on all dog sizes other than very large breeds.
Why do we like it?
- Built-in guard
- Sturdy and durable
- Spring-loaded cutting mechanism
- Made in the USA
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4. GoPets Nail Clippers with Nail File
The best part about these professional dog nail clippers is they contain a nail file as well. Veterinarians recommend them as professional-quality and grade. Made with high-quality 2mm stainless steel, they deliver clean cuts every time and stay sharp for years. The company says they are stronger than a samurai sword (of course, they’re not tested against real samurais).
Safe and easy-to-use ergonomics reduce the risk of injury. The angled blade design allows you to see where you’re cutting, and the lock blades allow for convenient storage. The company offers a replacement or refund if you aren’t happy.
But the best part is you’re being animal-friendly—the company donates a part of the profit to animal charities around the world.
Why do we like it?
- Animal-friendly company
- Strong, sharp blade
- Replacement or refund possible
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5. Boshel Dog Nail Clippers
These razor-sharp blades with a safety guard will prevent overcutting. Recommended by professionals, Boshel delivers an ergonomic handle. The clippers, which are designed for small and medium-sized dogs, are easy to use, but you can use them on cats as well.
The clippers deliver a clean cut every time. Made of 3.5mm thick stainless steel, they are powerful enough to trim the nails with one cut. And they stay sharp for years to come.
The design keeps you comfortable while grooming. Last, but not least, they have a safety stop serving as a quick sensor. This makes them the best dog nail clippers with a quick sensor. You also get a mini nail file in the left handle.
Why do we like it?
- Professional-grade
- 3.5mm thick stainless steel
- Nail file included
- Prevent over-cutting
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6. Resco Original Deluxe Dog Clippers
Resco invented the guillotine-style clippers in 1937. Since then, they have delivered different models. Made in the USA, the clippers are one of a kind. If you want to try guillotine-style clippers, this is the choice. They feature a patented blade replacement technology, and you can replace the blade at a fraction of the cost.
These are clippers that provide style and deliver comfort and performance. Since 1937, the company has led the grooming industry in durability and performance. There are no grabbing or splitting nails. The company offers a lifetime warranty.
Why do we like it?
- Patented guillotine-style clippers
- Lifetime warranty
- Stylish and comfortable
- Durable steel construction
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7. Gonicc Dog and Cat Pet Nail Clipper
Made of high-quality stainless steel, the clippers are strong and sharp. But the best part is the design. Lightweight and comfortable, they have non-slip handles and fit perfectly in the hand.
As with other products, Gonicc clippers feature unlock protection to prevent kids from using them. You also get a free hidden nail file in the handle, which you can use it to polish your pet’s nails to perfection.
The company also offers a lifetime warranty. If you don’t like the clippers, or if there is any problem, you can contact them.
Why do we like it?
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Unlock protection
- Lifetime warranty
- Nail file included
How long should your dog’s nails be?
There is no specific length. It depends on the dog. But there is one easy way to know it is time to cut your pooch’s nails. When you hear the claws tapping on the floor when he moves, that’s your cue. Some dogs need their nails trimmed once every month. Others can go for two to three months without clipping.
We also have to stress that nails grow differently. Nails in the front paws grow faster than the ones in the back. You might need to cut the nails at different times.
Even so, you must cut your dog’s nails. We will get more into this later on. But the main reason is that long nails can cause problems in his walking and posture.
How quickly do nails grow?
Dog nails grow at different times, and many factors determine the growth rate. By now, if you’re 20 years or older, you know human nails grow differently—and the same goes for dogs.
Some factors include breed, activity level, diet, and more. Small breeds grow nails faster than large dogs. Age is another factor you need to consider.
What is the best way to trim dog nails?
Cutting your dog’s nails incorrectly can result in injury or nail disorder. Or worse, an infection. And you don’t want that.
You must learn the best way to trim your dog’s nails. There are a few steps you can take beforehand.
- Start by getting accustomed to holding the nail clippers. Hold them in either hand, and see how they fit. Squeeze the clippers shut and open. See how they work. Once you’re ready to use the tool, you can bring your pet into the process.
- Let your dog sniff the best nail clippers for small dogs. Have some treats nearby, ready to give to him. Be patient and let your dog get used to the nail clippers.
- You can now prepare the area. Always clip your dog’s nails during the day. You want the room to be well-lit so you can see what you’re doing. If there is lots of toe fur in the paws, trim it with scissors.
- Gently slip the opening of the clipper over the tip of the nail. Stay within the white area of the nail and avoid the pinkish area, which is where the quick is.
- Keep the clipper parallel to the nail, and squeeze in one quick movement. Keep your dog’s paw steady.
- If the end of the nail stays attached to the claw, don’t pull it away. It will fall off. If your dog has black nails, cut more slowly and don’t go higher up the nail.
- Finish off with a treat for your puppy. You can cut until you see a small, pinkish color in the middle of the cut.
What if you cut into the quick?
First of all, don’t panic. Yes, sometimes, you can cut the quick. But you should not panic. Your dog might bleed a little, but he will not die. And yes, he does feel pain.
If this happens, get some styptic powder for dogs, and press it into the bleeding area. If you don’t have styptic powder, corn starch will do the trick as well.
The bleeding will stop on its own within five to ten minutes. But if it doesn’t, and you don’t have styptic powder, take him to the vet.
Why should you trim your dog’s nails?
You might think trimming your dog’s nails is not an important part of grooming. But it sure is. There are several unwanted consequences resulting from not clipping the nails.
The most obvious side effect is that your dog’s paws and feet might be in pain. Yes, dogs do a good job of hiding their pain. But think about this for a second. Try not to trim the nails on your feet for a month or two. Does it hurt when you put them in shoes? That’s how your dog feels with long nails.
When your dog walks with long nails, they dig into the nail bed and force a twisting of the toe. Simply put, they cause pressure on the joints of the toes. The pain will be minor at start. But your dog will start feeling more and more pain. And the worst part is, he will try to hide it.
Most dogs hide their pain. It’s something they’ve inherited due to their living in a pack as wolves. They don’t show pain because it’s a sign of weakness. Instead, your dog will try to compensate for the pain. He might limp, or walk awkwardly. This will ruin his posture and skeletal structure.
And don’t worry, there is a way to cut a dog’s nails that are black. If you’re afraid you might hurt the quick, don’t be.
Buying Guide
We will look at the two types of best nail clippers for small dogs. You can choose between scissor and guillotine clippers.
Guillotine clippers work like a guillotine. You stick the end of the nail in the hole and squeeze. The blade lowers and slices off the end of the nail. Many experts recommend them for small to medium-sized dogs.
That doesn’t mean scissor clippers are not good for small dogs. As you see, they make up most of our list. Scissor clippers work like scissors. They pack more power and force to clip the nails.
Being that scissors are more versatile, we prefer that type of clippers. But if you’re more into guillotine, no problem. You can use guillotine clippers for a small dog. But never for a large dog.
Last, but not least, sharpen your clippers. Replace the blade when needed. Damaged and blunt clippers increase the risk of splitting a dog’s nail or other injury.
Tips to consider
Let’s finish off with some tips on how to best use nail clippers for small dogs. Here are some things to consider:
- Always trim nails in a well-lit room.
- Keep clipper blades almost parallel to the nail.
- Don’t squeeze the toes because it will hurt your baby.
- Use your fingers to separate the toes.
- Remove excess toe hair before trimming the nails.
- Always associate nail trimming with praise and treats.
- If your dog is anxious, call a friend to help you. He can hold the dog while you trim his nails.
Conclusion
We can all agree that cutting the nails is a regular and important part of the grooming routine. It keeps your dog healthy. Nail clipping also improves his mobility. And at the end of the day, you can turn it into a bonding activity with treats and praise. And for that, you need the best nail clippers for small dogs.
In most cases, you don’t need to take your dog to the groomer for nail clipping. You can buy a good pair of clippers like Safari Professional, and do it at home. The initial investment might be more expensive, but you save money in the long run.
Aleksandar
My name is Aleksandar, and I am a storyteller by professional. I’ve got a BA in journalism in 2009. I write ever since. Now, I am here to help you find the best grooming products for your furry friend.
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