Pets Corner: Why Your Dog Hates Nail Trims (And What That Says About Us)

Connect & Grow Magazine: Issue 23 August 2025

There’s a moment many dog guardians dread - and it usually involves a pair of nail clippers, a wiggling dog, and a mild existential crisis.

We know their nails need trimming. We know we have to clean their ears, check their teeth, maybe even do that eye ointment thing. And yet, for so many dogs, handling feels like a hostage situation. And for so many humans? A total emotional minefield.

So why is something that should be simple… so hard?

Because, for the most part, we were never taught how to help dogs feel safe during care. We were taught to “just get it done.” To hold them tighter. To pin them down if needed. Sedate them if necessary. That consent was optional. That trembling was normal.

But here’s the thing: dogs aren’t being dramatic. They’re communicating. When they flinch, squirm, or hide, they’re not being difficult - they’re saying, “This doesn’t feel okay.” And when we ignore that… trust gets lost. Fast.

The good news? We can do better.

Cooperative care isn’t about perfection. It’s about collaboration. It’s teaching your dog they have a voice in the process. That they can say “not yet” and be heard. That the nail clippers, the eye drops, the vet table - even that thermometer thing that gets put in places no one ever wants to talk about - don’t have to be scary.

The more choices we give them, the more safe they feel. The more safety they feel, the more they stay.

Handling doesn’t have to be a battle. It can be a dialogue. A dance. One where both species feel calm, seen, and respected.

And honestly? Isn’t that the kind of relationship we all signed up for in the first place?

Written by

Sarah Rutten

Canine Behaviour Specialist

#1 Amazon Best-Selling Author

www.thecanineperspective.com.au

sarah@thecanineperspective.com.au

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