Mastering Nail Trims: How to Successfully Use a Dremel for Your Dog's Nails

If your dog is anything like mine, you know that nail trims can feel like a dreaded chore. For my six-year-old American Bully, Marlee, it became such a challenge that I resorted to putting her on anxiety meds just to get through her monthly trims. It was exhausting, and I hated seeing her so drowsy each time. Worse still, the trims were never deep enough, so her nails remained long and grew back quickly—making the whole process feel almost pointless.

After some research and a bit of trial and error, I finally found a method that works for my dog. Now, I’m able to keep her nails short by gradually pushing back the quick, and it’s made such a difference in maintaining her paw health! If you are struggling with nail trims and need a new method read along: 

1. Start by finding a high value treat

   
   

Nail trims can be a stressful experience for your pup, so it’s important to help them build a positive association with the process. Using a high-value treat is an effective way to shift their emotions and reward them for staying calm. For Marlee, I found that dog-safe spray cheese, like the kind made by Kong, works wonders. I start by spreading about a tablespoon on a lick mat. Not only does it keep her happily occupied during her Dremel session, but it also provides her with a bit of enrichment afterward, as it usually lasts longer than the trim itself. Feel free to experiment with other high-value treats for the lick mat, or try a safe chew to keep them engaged. Just make sure whatever you use doesn’t require your dog’s paws so you can have full access to their nails.

2. Find a good dremel 

   
   

When it comes to nail trimming, a Dremel offers a much gentler experience compared to traditional nail clippers. For larger dogs with thicker nails, clippers can require significant pressure, which can be jarring for the dog and increase their stress. In contrast, a Dremel allows you to hold the nail steady while gradually grinding it down, making the process calmer and more controlled. This approach also lets you get closer to the quick, which is essential for reducing nail length over time. For dogs with longer nails, the goal is to gradually push the quick back, allowing you to achieve and maintain shorter, healthier nails. Making sure to use a quality dremel will provide you and your pup the best experience. Here’s a link to the Dremel we’ve been using, but be sure to check out reviews to find the best fit for you and your dog’s needs. Different models have various features, so a little research can help you choose the one that works best for both of you!

3. Get your dog comfortable with the device

   
   

If your dog is sensitive to loud sounds, the Dremel may feel intimidating at first. Take some time to help your dog get comfortable with both the sound and sensation of the device. Begin by rewarding your dog with a high-value treat whenever they interact calmly with the Dremel—simply touching it to their paw can earn them a treat. Next, introduce the sound gradually. Turn the Dremel on and reward your dog for staying relaxed as they listen. You can also try placing the Dremel (without trimming) against their paw to let them feel the gentle vibration, rewarding them for calm behavior. Once your dog appears comfortable with both the sound and feel of the Dremel, you can begin trimming.

4. Begin Trimming

   
   

Once your dog seems comfortable, have them settle in a spot where they feel relaxed, like their bed or favorite spot on the couch, and offer them their lick mat or chew. Hold one of their nails firmly to keep it steady, and start Dremeling slowly. If your dog pulls away, gently remove their treat as well, giving them a moment to relax before offering it back and resuming the nail trim. This way, they’ll begin to associate staying calm and still with the reward of their treat, creating a positive connection to the process. Make sure to pay attention to the quick and not dremel too far back. If your dog has white or transparent nails it is easier to see the quick. If they have dark nails you can usually see the quick from underneath the nail. Refer to the diagram if you need a visual. If your dog has a resource guarding problem, consider an alternative approach to avoid any stress or discomfort.

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5. Allow your dog to decompress 

   
   

Since nail trims can be particularly stressful for some dogs, giving them time to decompress afterward is essential. This is why I prefer using a lick mat during Marlee's nail trims. She rarely finishes it before I’m done, so she gets to continue licking for an additional 5–10 minutes, helping her relax. Licking is a naturally soothing activity for dogs, but there are other great decompression options too. You could offer a chew, set up a sniffing activity, or take them on a gentle walk to unwind. For more enrichment and decompression ideas, feel free to check out my Pinterest board.

While Marlee is now fully comfortable with her nail-trimming routine, I still keep sessions short by Dremeling only one to two paws a day, once a week. My top priority is her comfort while ensuring her nails stay at a healthy length. If your dog finds nail trims challenging, give this method a try—and let me know in the comments if it helped! I’d also love to hear about any techniques that have worked for you and give them a try with Marlee.

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Disclaimer:  I am not a professional. The methods I’ve shared are simply what has worked best for me and my dog. It’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian or a qualified trainer before trying any new techniques or approaches. Your dog's safety and well-being should always come first!