Nail trimming - Page 1

What is your best method for trimming the nails, especially if they don't like it?

I use the Peticure. 
I have to have someone hold a high value treat to keep them busy but it's fast and no worries about cutting the quick.

Do one nail per day.  Eventually they all get trimmed.  Then move to two nails per day, etc.  One rescue GSD really hated it, and since he was 100 pounds there was no way I could hold him down.  It took a few months, but we got to the point where I could trim all of his nails if I did it quickly and held his paws gently.

Opal

 I agree with AKGeorgias mom, except that I'd start the training (and yes it is training to accept handling) even further back.  If the dog isn't used to it touching the legs and feet can be upsetting.  So you touch a leg, treat, touch a foot, treat, etc. If the dog is fine with having his feet handled you can go faster, of course, but it's important not to rush if you see any sign of discomfort.  Move up to holding a foot, the separating the toes, then very gently pinching a toe as though your fingers are clippers.  Then you hold the clippers and make clicking noises.  Each one of these steps is followed by treats.  Eventually you move up to cutting a single nail -- treat, and you're done for the day!  Next day a different nail, etc.  

It sounds tedious, but it actually doesn't take that long, and it produces a dog that's very amenable to being handled.  If you've taught the dog that being handled and restrained isn't scary it's a big plus when it comes time for any sort of veterinary exam, too.  Easier on the dog, and on the staff! 

For context my dog was a whirling dervish -- he came to me from a previously neglectful home and had no training.  In less than two weeks working in tiny increments he learned to lie down on his side and let me clip his nails.  After he gets a special treat (like a bit of chicken or beef heart).