How best to clip nails on a terrified puppy?

[Kristen and Chewbacca (Chewy)]

We've been waiting patiently since we got Chewy in June until he was old enough to start going to a groomer to have his nails clipped . The vet says he needs to wait 2-3 more weeks until he can go to the groomer. In the meantime, we''ve been trying to clip his nails/or use the Dremel, and he has always put up a huge fight. We've never gotten through it in one sitting--it's always such a struggle (and he's generally a mild tempered puppy). We've tried giving constant treats, does not work. The vet clipped his nails for me once, and he was just fine--sat there like an angel. Any advice on helping us become more successful? I'd like to be able to get to the point where I can trim his nails once a week--they grow so quickly!

[Helga, Nimbus, Sierra, Clooney]

Play with his feet/toes a lot so he gets used to being touched on his feet. Some dogs are very sensitive on their feet. I don't know how big he is but I take Nimbus in my lap when I cut his nails. Good luck!

[Jenny Williams]

I don't have any good advice because I'm in the same boat. My pup is almost 5 months old, and I play with her feet every day! But she still cannot stand it... I think it's more the sound of the clippers than the actual process. Even the vet has to get stern with her when she does it, so I just get my hubby to hold her while I do it, and she has to deal with it. Eventually, she'll quit fighting me about it. 

[Leann]

Phoebe (Chewy's sister) does best for nail trims when she's exhausted and chewing on a bully stick or a stuffed Kong or something. I usually do one foot at a time...and then give her a break. Usually i can get at least 2 toes done before she notices and then only have to do 2 or 3 more with her licking at me. I try and make sure she doesn't see the nail clippers before I start, and I don't talk to her til I'm done.

Why did your vet say to wait on going to the groomer? Just curious because Phoebe is at the groomer right now. Our vet actually recommended I take her because of her ears. I did the best I could with plucking hair out but I was scared to go too deep.

[Leann]

Also...I play with her feet constantly throughout the day. Like rub between each individual toe, across the pads, press on her toes to extend her nails, etc.

[Kristen and Chewbacca (Chewy)]

Hi Leann, thanks for the advice. The vet told me last week that he still needs one more round of vaccines before grooming, so he goes back on the 20th. I will double check with her, because I always thought that by 16 weeks, pups are all clear. It's so nice to see a picture of Chewy's sister. Please share pics of her post-grooming!

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

I cheated during this phase.

I put him on the cement patio and let him play with a frisbee. Spud would paw and paw at the toy.  Really, he just wore down his nails enough.   

[Nancy Aldred]

I haven't tried this yet.  But I know I need to take this on.  Thanks for the tips.  I like the idea of bully stick and one foot at a time.  Stella lets me brush and comb her and clip her face, but her feet are another matter.

[Kristen and Chewbacca (Chewy)]

Thanks everyone for the advice. I'll try playing with his toes a little more. I usually try to clip his nails while he's sitting on my lap on the floor-perhaps ill try a chair where it may be more difficult to escape. I'll also be more patient and try a paw at a time. I've got to get this right so that he doesn't continue to ruin the hardwood floors :-(