Dogs · Product picks
The Best Dog Nail Clippers and Grinders
The Dremel PawControl is our top pick. See clippers and grinders compared, plus how to choose a tool and trim your dog’s nails more safely.
We may earn a commission if you buy through links on this page. It never decides what we pick.How that works
For most first-time buyers, the Dremel PawControl is a good place to start. This cordless grinder has a nail guard and a paw guide. If you prefer clippers, the Safari Professional trimmer has a safety stop. This guide compares four tools and explains how to choose.
Our picks at a glance
- Best overall: Dremel PawControl Pet Nail Grooming Kit
- Best for plug-in or cordless use: Andis Cord/Cordless Nail Grinder
- Best clipper: Safari Professional Dog Nail Trimmer
- Best for a simple soft grip: Wahl Dog Nail Clipper
The best dog nail clippers and grinders
Dog nail grinders
Dremel PawControl Pet Nail Grooming Kit
Best for: First-time grinder users
Dremel says this grinder has a nail guard and a 45-degree angled paw guide. It runs on a rechargeable battery and has a variable speed switch. It suits people who want a grinder made for pets. Skip it if your dog is very scared of noise and buzzing, at least until you have done some slow practice.
- Pro: Nail guard attachment and 45-degree paw guide help with positioning
- Pro: Variable speed slide switch and USB-rechargeable battery
- Pro: Comes with sanding bits you can swap out
- Con: Many dogs need time to get used to the noise and buzz
- Con: Grinding takes longer than clipping
Dog nail grinders
Andis Cord/Cordless Nail Grinder
Best for: Owners who want flexible power
Andis makes this grinder to work plugged in or cordless. It has two speeds and comes with a grinding cap, a finishing stone and a protective cover. It suits owners who want the choice of power. Skip it if you want the simplest setup, since extra accessories are sold separately.
- Pro: Works plugged in or cordless
- Pro: Two speeds
- Pro: Comes with a grinding cap, finishing stone and protective cover
- Con: Many dogs need time to get used to the noise and buzz
- Con: Replacement accessories are sold separately
Dog nail clippers
Safari Professional Dog Nail Trimmer
Best for: Owners who prefer clippers
Coastal says this clipper has stainless steel double blades, a spring, a safety stop and a non-slip grip. It works for left or right hands and comes in Standard and Large sizes. It suits owners who like clippers. Skip it if you worry about cutting the quick, because a grinder lets you remove less at a time.
- Pro: Stainless steel double blades with a spring for quick cuts
- Pro: Safety stop built in to lower the risk of cutting too short
- Pro: Non-slip grip, works for left or right hands
- Con: You can still cut the quick if your dog moves
- Con: Two sizes only, so check which fits your dog
Dog nail clippers
Wahl Dog Nail Clipper
Best for: Dogs and owners who want a basic clipper
Wahl lists a soft-touch grip and a safety lock on this clipper. It is a basic tool for owners who want a plain clipper. Wahl’s page gives few other details, so check the size and blade information on the product page before you buy. Skip it if you want a built-in guard.
- Pro: Soft-touch grip
- Pro: Safety lock for storage
- Pro: Simple, easy-to-use design
- Con: The brand's page lists few details
- Con: You still need to find the quick yourself
How to choose a dog nail clipper or grinder
Clippers or grinders?
The AKC describes three types of clippers: scissor-style, guillotine-style and grinders. It says to choose the tool you are most comfortable with, or the one that works best for your dog.
A grinder removes a little nail at a time. That can make it easier to avoid the quick if your dog wiggles. Many dogs need to get used to the sound and the vibration first. A clipper is quiet and fast, but one bad squeeze can cut too far.
What to look for
- A tool made for dogs. The AKC says to use a safe tool designed for dogs.
- A comfortable grip. You need steady control of a squirmy foot.
- A guard or stop. Some tools have a safety stop or nail guard. These can help, but they don’t replace slow, careful trimming.
- Replaceable parts for grinders. Check how the grinding bits, caps or stones are replaced.
- Size. Match the tool to your dog’s nails. For clippers, check the size range on the brand’s page.
Safety tips
- Know where the quick is. It is the pink part of the nail with blood vessels. On dark nails, the AKC says to look for a chalky white ring that shows where the quick ends.
- Trim only the tip, straight across. Don’t clip past the curve of the nail.
- Hold the toe firmly but gently.
- With a grinder, take off small amounts at a time. Keep long fur out of the way.
- Keep styptic powder or another clotting powder nearby.
- Start young. The AKC says to start early with puppies so they get used to it.
- Most dogs need a trim every three to four weeks, says the AKC. Long nails can cause pain, splayed paws, less grip and tendon injury over time.
- If bleeding won’t stop or your dog is in pain, call your vet.
Common questions
Are nail grinders better than clippers for dogs?
The AKC says to pick whichever tool you and your dog are most comfortable with. A grinder can make it less likely that you cut the quick by mistake, but many dogs need time to get used to the noise and the buzzing feel.
How often should I trim my dog’s nails?
The AKC says most dogs need a trim every three to four weeks. How often depends on how active your dog is and how fast the nails grow.
What should I have on hand when trimming dog nails?
The AKC says to keep styptic powder or another clotting powder nearby. Use it to stop bleeding if you trim a nail too short.
What is the quick in a dog’s nail?
The quick is the pink, living part of the nail that holds blood vessels. Cutting into it hurts and bleeds, according to the AKC.