Trimming black dog nails can be tricky, but here are safe and reliable tips to help you avoid cutting the quick. We’ll go over this step-by-step in this post. Also watch my video on how to trim your dog’s nails at home safely:
Watch My Video: How to Trim Your Dog’s Nails at Home
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How to Tell Where the Quick Is If Your Dog’s Nails Are Black
1. Look at the Underside of the Nail
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- Turn the paw over and examine the underside of each nail.
- Black nails often have a triangular shape, and the quick appears as a dark oval or circle in the center near the base.
- As you get closer to the quick, the nail becomes softer and more opaque in the middle.
2. Trim Little by Little
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- Use a gradual trimming approach—just a tiny bit at a time.
- After each clip, check the cross-section of the nail.
- If it’s chalky or solid black, you’re still in the safe zone.
- If you see a grayish or pinkish oval, stop—you’re close to the quick.
3. Use a Flashlight (if needed)
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- In a dark room, shine a bright flashlight underneath the nail.
- This may help you highlight the outline of the quick even in black nails.
4. Regular Trimming Helps
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- Frequent trims cause the quick to recede.
- This makes it easier to maintain short nails and reduces the risk of bleeding.
What If You Hit the Quick When Trimming Your Dog’s Nails?
If your dog’s nail starts bleeding when you clip it, you’ve hit the quick. Here’s what to do?
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- If bleeding occurs, stay calm.
- Apply styptic powder, cornstarch, or flour with firm pressure to stop the bleeding.
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How to Trim Your Dog’s Nails at Home
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For more information, read my post, How to Trim a Dog’s Nails at Home for step-by-step instructions!
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