As a dog owner, there are certain responsibilities that you cannot escape. Your canine friend needs constant grooming, and it is upon you to do it. Why would anyone do it for you anyway? One of the procedures you will always have to perform is nail clipping.
In as much as your dog might not like it, you have to do it either way. Nail clipping can seem difficult, and some people even hire professionals to do it for them. However, investing in the best dog nail clippers and taking extreme measure is something you can do yourself at home.
So, what should you look for when buying a nail clipper?
There are lots of dog nail clippers in the market today. Each in their way claiming to be the best, the safest and so on. Choosing one is a tall order if you do not know what to look for. Relax, we are here for you.
Comfort
Comfort, comfort. The need for this when nail clipping your best friend’s nails cannot be overemphasized. Your dog can sense when you are tensed and in discomfort as you clip his nails. This makes him uncomfortable too, and you will not get anything done.
The best dog nail clippers have a rubberized handle with anti-slip properties. This gives an assured hold as you clip. For better grip, look for a clipper with a longer handle for easy cutting of the nails.
Quality cutting blade
Asides from comfort, the cutting blade should also inform your decision when deciding on a nail clipper. This is the part tasked with the actual cutting job, so you really have to get it right. The blade should be at least made of stainless steel which does not get blunt easily.
Another added advantage of a stainless steel blade is that it does not rust either. It is easier to clip your dog’s nail with a sharp blade than a blunt one. The sharper the blade stays, the lesser the chances of the dog’s nail crushing during clipping.
Safety provisions
When trimming your dog’s nails, it is very much likely that you are not a pro at doing it. Even if you are, you might make a mistake at some point. When choosing a nail clipper, look for one that prevents you from [over clipping the nail].
A nail clipper with a guard may come in handy when you do it yourself and become nervous in the process. There is a part of a dog’s nail that contains blood capillaries. If you accidentally cut this part, bleeding may occur.
Clipper type
Dog nail clippers come in a variety of [three types] that you can choose from. These are the Guillotine, Scissors and the Rotary sander. All these work in different ways to fit your style and dog’s nails.
The Guillotine Clippers use the retractable blade system which is activated when you squeeze the handle. These types require some care so that you do not crush the dog’s nails.
Additionally, the scissors type is the commonest type and is fit for tough nails. The Rotary Sander types employ a spinning sander which trims down the dog’s nail. The motor used in the Clipper produces very irritating sounds to the dog.
Plus, they are normally slow and this might work to your disadvantage. When choosing a nail clipper, decide on one that fits your style and would be easy to use.
Size of dog
The toughness of a dog’s nail depends on its size and age. The sizes of the clippers also differ depending on the size of the dog. It, therefore, would make no sense to use a clipper meant for a puppy on a full grown large breed dog.
The scissor group of clippers is availed in two sizes, the large and small types. Buy the most appropriate one for your pooch. If your dog has tough nails, buy a clipper with a corresponding degree of toughness.
Left or right handed
When buying a dog nail clipper, consider your most dominant hand. The direction the quick guard faces should be away from you.
Not all the clippers will be oriented in this manner when used with either hand. Buy the appropriate clipper for your dominant hand to prevent the cut nails flying all around you.
Price
There is a saying that cheap is always expensive and vice versa. This is sometimes false. A very expensive nail clipper does not necessarily guarantee a high-end product.
You can still find a good value for your money at a cheaper price. Do your budgeting and find a clipper that best fits into your plan.
Top 5 Best Dog Nail Clippers On the Market
In this article, we are going to indulge you in the nail clippers world. We will elaborate to you all you need to know as you choose a nail clipper to give your dog sparkling new nails.
#1. Dog Nail Clippers and Trimmer by Boshel®

If you are a DIY enthusiast, then the Boshel Nail Clippers should fit the bill for what you are looking for. You do not, therefore, have to book regular appointments at the groomer just for a dog nail trim.
It has exemplary features that ensure you do not make painful mistakes. The handles are rubber covered to prevent slips; a safety guard limits the amount of cut each time (no need to worry about overcuts) and the cutting blade is made from stainless steel that stays sharp for a long time.
The sharp blade enables you to make a quick and clean professional cut. As a bonus, you get a free nail file to create a smooth finish on the nails when you are done doing the clipping.
The ergonomically designed handles ensure that just the right amount of force is applied and you have the clipper within your grasp at all times.
Features
- A safety guard to prevent over clipping of nails
- A free nail file is provided
- The blades are razor sharp
- It has non-slip handles
- Ergonomically designed for comfort during use.
- It weighs 0.25 pounds
- Fit for dog size L
- Measures 2.5 x 7.5 x 0.3 inches.
Pros
- High-quality cutting blade
- Easy to use
- It is safe to use, with a safety stop
- A quick and clean cut
- A bonus file is provided for a smooth finish
Cons
- The handle locks require manual opening.
- The clipper blade can sometimes not be sharp enough for some dog types.
#2. Millers Forge Quality Nail Clipper

The Millers Forge Nail Clipper is a heavy clipper meant for dogs that weigh over 40 pounds. It is made from high quality European stainless steel for a durable and sharp blade. The sharp blade makes nail clipping easy and quick.
The stainless steel blade has a positive lock for improved safety. The blade space is large enough to fit even the nails of large breed dogs. The cutting mechanism is spring loaded to improve on its cutting actions.
For those who become anxious as they trim their dog’s nails, the cutting guard can be put into position, thereby preventing cases of overcutting the dog’s nails. For safety during storage, a lock is provided to keep it shut throughout.
This clipper is, however, best suited for those of you who are comfortable with nail clipping. The handles do not have any anti-slip mechanism, making it more suited to those with some experience.
Furthermore, the quick guard has also been eliminated. They are manufactured in one size for dogs weighing 40 pounds and above.
Features
- It weighs 4 ounces.
- Heavy duty clipper
- It is favorable among veterinarians as well as groomers
- Contoured handles that minimize strain on hands.
- A storage lock keeps the trimmers closed.
- Comfy plastic handles
- There is no quick guard.
Pros
- The locking mechanism gives extra secure storage.
- Long lasting construction.
- The sharp blades give a quick and clean cut.
- They are easy to use.
- Suitable for big dog nails
Cons
- The handles feel cheap.
- No quick guard.
#3. OmegaPet Dog Nail Clippers with Quick Sensor

The OmegaPet Nail Clippers are meant to be used without being afraid of any accidental screw-ups. No matter the size of your pet, these clippers will do the job perfectly for you. The pressure of grooming your pooch is taken off you too.
When you are one of those who own both dogs and cats, then you need to buy a single clipper that can be used for both pets. The sharp cutting blade is made to last and provides a clean cut. This does not crush the nail as you cut through it.
If you want a nail clipper that is light, sturdy, has slip less and long handles, then you should consider this dog nail clipper. After a cut, the nail edges tend to be rough, so a free file is provided to smoothen out the edges.
A nail guard (quick sensor) limits the amount of cut per clip. This enables you to monitor the distance to the quick part of the nail. You then stop clipping when it is close enough. The rigid and sturdy construction gives an assured cutting experience.
The rubber laden handle gives you a confident grip and a steady hand movement throughout. Durability is another feature of this clipper that makes it stand out. You do not have to buy a new one every six months.
Features
- Easy to use
- Sharp blade
- Has a safety guard
- Made from heavy duty materials.
- Little pressure is applied to cut through nails.
- Fits all hand sizes.
- Measures 8.1 x 3.4 x 1 inches.
- Smoothening file is provided
Pros
- Easy to use
- Gives a clean cut
- Has a quick sensor
- Comfortable, slip-free grip
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Adjustable length of cut
- Clips even the toughest of nails
Cons
- The safety guard is reported to malfunctions at times
- It is only availed in single sizes
- The sturdy structure limits view for small nails
- The lock stops functioning on some occasions
#4. Waggles Professional Dog Nail Clippers

The Waggles Nail Clipper is one designed not to compromise on the safety of your dog and its overall quality. This gives you a good nail trimming experience, so you look forward to doing it yourself the next time.
This clipper has the unique angled tip to give you a clear view of the nail as you clip. It is angled at 450 for efficient clipping. The high-quality cutting blade is very sharp for easy and precision cutting. A guard is fitted on to the clipper for a slip-free cut.
To make your nail clipping have a pro touch, this dog nail clipper comes with a guide on how to use it correctly. No messed up and accidental cuttings. When you buy this nail clipper, you get a free professional standard file to give the nails a smooth edge after a trim.
If your dog does not like being nail clipped or becomes aggressive in the process of using the ordinary nail clippers, then this one offers an excellent alternative. The angled tip keeps the dog calm throughout the process.
The cutting mechanism is spring loaded to prevent it from becoming loose in the process. A locking clip prevents it from opening and closing when stored
Features
- Ergonomic handle.
- Angled head for accuracy
- Quick sensor guard.
- Precision trimming
- A high-quality nail file is provided
- A grooming guide is included in the package.
- An assured durable performance.
- Built-in locking clip
- Spring loaded cutting system.
- It weighs 0.6 ounces
- Non-slip
- Measures 6.1 x 2.2 x 1 inches.
- A locking mechanism for secure storage.
Pros
- It has a safety guard.
- A guaranteed lifetime performance
- A free smoothing file is provided.
- Easy to use
- Quick, clean cuts
- High-quality parts
- A good value for the price
Cons
- The locking clip becomes flimsy over time.
- Some individuals hate the raised tip.
- Trimming the nails of small dogs is difficult.
- The safety mechanism provided blocks the cutting path.
#5. Pro-Pet Works Dog Nail Clippers

If you feel like paying those huge dog grooming bills no more, then you need to get yourself a Pro Pet works dog nail clipper. This dog nail clipper will enable you to have complete control over the entire nail trimming procedures.
This clipper is made to trim your canine friend’s nails with minimum effort. The 3 mm cutting blade is made from stainless steel and provides a precise cut each time. This heavy-duty clipper is made from professional quality materials.
A nail file is designed to fit into the handle. This allows you to smoothen out rough edges. An ergonomic handle provides a comfortable, non-slip handle. No flimsy feel in case your hands get sweaty.
A nail guard limits the amount of nail clip with each cut. This is essential when trimming mostly cat’s nails or when you are about to reach the quick part of the nail.
In instances where you are not very sure of what to do, a step by step guide set of instructions is provided for a surety of trimming. This prevents you from hurting your dog or crushing a nail or two. This nail clipper makes it easy to trim those long nails of your dog.
Features
- Nail file is provided
- Has a quick guard sensor
- Illustrative instructions are given
- Superb gripping, ergonomic handle
- 100% customer satisfaction
- Heavy duty stainless steel blade
- Fit for between medium and large size breeds
Pros
- Very sharp blade.
- Easy to use
- They are foolproof
- Instructions are provided for newbies
- The handles are non-slip.
- Has a built-in nail guard.
- Can be used for dogs and cats
Cons
- The nail file can get stuck when it is to be used for the first time.
A wrap-up
Keeping your dog in top shape is mandatory for dog owners. When their nails are left unattended to and grow too long, those dog hugs when you come home become unbearable. You then have to invest in dog nail clippers to trim down those long nails.
Finding the best dog nail clippers can be a tricky affair as much as it can be straight forward. You have to look for one that is easy to use, produces a quick and clean cut and comfortable to hold.
Of the five dog nail clippers, we would recommend the [Boshel dog nail clipper or the Gonicc Clippers]. It has a safety guard, sharp blades and sturdy handles that are non-slip. It gives a safe and professional dog nail trim at the comfort of your home.
Furthermore, it is recommended by animal trainers, pet groomers and lots of customers who have been satisfied with its performance. We hope this article will help you keep dog’s nails short and clean with much ease.
Last Updated on 29/11/2023 by Karen Snow

Hi! I’m Karen and a certified dog lover. As a freelance writer and blogger, I do my best to squeeze in some time with my dogs, learning more about the way they act and how I can make sure that they continue to stay well-cared for by yours truly.
My dogs have helped me through a lot, and this is my way of giving back to them! Besides animals, I also love to travel and cook, having explored my country’s restaurants and unique places. Follow me as I show you all the amazing tips and bits of information I learn along the way about our furry friends!