Trim your dog or cat's nails at home with these clippers that pros recommend.
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While all veterinary offices, pet spas, and even some doggie daycare centers offer nail trimming services for your dog or cat, paying top dollar for a professional trim isn’t always in the budget. Luckily, this is a task you can complete in the comfort of your home by purchasing one essential tool: a nail trimmer. Seren Lanza, DVM at VCA Darien Animal Hospital in Connecticut, offers expert advice on how to easily and properly trim your pet’s nails with her go-to nail trimmers, the Millers Forge Nail Clipper.
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Millers Forge Nail Clipper
The Millers Forge Nail Clippers are efficient in clipping your dog's nails in minutes.
What is the Millers Forge Large Dog Nail Clipper?
My go-to nail trimmer is Millers Forge Large Dog Nail Clipper. This is the only nail trimmer I use! They are a standard nail trimmer with an open clipping part—not a closed circle or guillotine style. This makes them easy to use and hold, plus they’re made of surgical stainless steel and are sharp, so they cut efficiently. For cats, I like the Miller Forge Pet Nail Clipper, they’re similar but smaller.
Pros
- Best for all life stages
- Spring-loaded for a clean cut
- Includes locking cap for safe storage
- Ergonomic plastic grip
Cons
- Can cut too much if not careful
- Grib can hurt hands for some
Why trimming your pet’s nails is crucial
Regularly trimming your pet’s nails is important for more than just aesthetics. “Unhealthy nails can cause pain, and in rare instances, trigger irreversible damage to the dog,” explains the American Kennel Club (AKC).
There are two parts to a dog’s nail: the living pink quick and the shell, which is the hard outer material. “The quick supplies blood to the nail and runs through the core of it. Nerves in the quick cause bleeding and discomfort when cut,” the AKC explains. “Regular nail trimming will cause the quick to recede from the end. Short quicks are the preferred length for the dog’s well-being and easy maintenance.”
So what will happen if you fail to trim your pet’s nails regularly? Long nails can turn a healthy paw into a splayed foot, not only reducing your pet’s traction but also potentially leading to deformed feet and injured tendons in the long run. “As the long nail hits the ground, the pressure puts force on the foot and leg structure,” explains the AKC.
Final Verdict
The Millers Forge Large Dog Nail Clipper makes a pet parent’s life easier while trimming their four-legged best friend’s nails. After considering its features and shopper reviewers, the clippers are among the best pairs to add to your grooming kit. We recommend these if you’re struggling to cut your dog’s nails since they offer a clean trim in just one cut. Plus, the affordable price makes the clippers even more appealing.
What other reviewers/experts had to say
Shoppers say that these clippers work. “I love these, and it is the second pair that I bought,” Renee said. I have one at home, and I bought one for my Dad’s dog. The quality is good, and they cut easily and cleanly. If nail trimmers are not sturdy, they will pull on the toenail, making the dog upset. These were clipped, and it was done.”
Jason P wrote: “My vet uses these clippers and the only brand that he buys. We have six Great Danes and have no problem trimming their nails. We have tried several brand and these work the best on their thick nails.”
Where to buy the Millers Forge Large Dog Nail Clippers
Millers Forge Nail Clipper
The Millers Forge Nail Clippers are efficient in clipping your dog's nails in minutes.
Ready to grab a pair of nail clippers for your pet? The Millers Forge Nail Clippers cost $11 to $20, depending on where you purchase them. You can find them at Chewy and Amazon.
Next, find out the best dog toothbrushes (according to vets).
FAQ
When should you start trimming your pet’s nails?
Dogs often dislike nail trims, so it’s best to start early—getting puppies or kittens used to having their paws handled makes it easier long term. Before trimming, gather your clippers, some treats, and a helper: one person can hold and comfort your pet while the other trims.
How do you trim your pet’s nails?
Technique is key. Even with the best trimmers, nail cutting can be tricky and stressful for dogs. Angle the clippers so you cut more from the top than the underside, avoiding the pink “quick” that contains blood vessels and nerves. Trim small amounts at a time to prevent pain or fear. If bleeding occurs, apply cornstarch or flour to the tip and monitor until it stops.
Is there an alternative method to nail trimming?
Some pets, especially breeds like Pugs and French Bulldogs, won’t tolerate clippers. A nail grinder, such as the Dremel Dog & Cat Nail Grinder, can be a gentler option once your pet gets used to the sound. Use it at a slight angle for smooth edges—it takes longer than trimming, but works well for shaping and finishing after a quick clip. If your pet’s nails are very long, you may need to trim them first, then smooth out the edges with the Dremel.
Why you should trust us
Leah Groth covers everything from cleaning hacks and consumer products to travel and pets for Reader’s Digest. Leah also contributes to a handful of other publications such as Forbes, InStyle, Footwear News, Glamour, Shape, Prevention, USA Today, Parade, Bustle, Health, Mindbodygreen, Business Insider, Reader’s Digest, MyDomaine, CBS News, Apartment Therapy, Women’s Health, Cosmopolitan, Woman’s World, Livestrong, Parents, Everyday Health and more.
We also consulted Seren Lanza, DVM at VCA Darien Animal Hospital in Connecticut on the best pair of dog nail clippers. “How to Trim Your Dog’s Nails Safely” via American Kennel Club aided our research.
