Yes, even you can do it! The secret to being able to manage this scariest part of the grooming process is to take baby steps when you start, and always keep it positive for your pup (and you). Don't leave this important part of grooming to the very last. Alternate clipping the nails of a paw with brushing different parts of the body. Keep your pup guessing about what you'll be doing next.

Okay, so if you're going to do it, here's how: Use a high-quality pair of nail trimmers, as the less expensive ones have blades that take longer to cut and often get stuck on a nail, only prolonging the odd feeling for your dog. Many nail clippers have a safety feature that can obstruct your vision and cause you to inadvertently cut into the quick. Avoid relying on it. You only want to take off the very tip.

As you're brushing or petting your pup, get out the nail clippers. Start petting your pup's legs, then feet. Lift a paw gently and as quickly as you can, position the clippers around the tip of a nail and clip. Then stop. Give her a hug and a treat, and move on to grooming another part of her. Keep going back to the nails until they're all done. Even if they still look long after cutting off just the tips, don't worry, ten days later you can have right back at it, that's because as you cut the toenails, the quick will recede within a week's time.

Should you accidentally cut into the quick on your pup's nail, it will bleed profusely. It will also hurt your poor pup, and you'll have a hurting dog and a bloody paw on your hands. Try to position an old towel or a paper towel on the paw to absorb the blood, and try to keep your puppy still. Apply styptic powder as soon as possible. She'll get over the hurt paw, but she may never forget the association between the clipper and the pain, in which case your job just got a lot harder. You may need to ask a groomer or veterinary assistant to clip the nails if you find yourself struggling over it too much.