The 7 Best Dog Nail Clippers of 2020

Best Overall: Safari Professional Stainless Steel Nail Trimmer

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Safari’s Professional Nail Trimmer took the number one spot on our list for its wallet-friendly price tag and ease of use—and pet parens seem to love it too.

Made with stainless steel, this clippers’ blades are extra strong, sharp and durable, and will cut through nails quickly — which is perfect for squirmy dogs or dogs who hate having their nails trimmed. It’s equipped with a quick stop, which will prevent causing painful damage to the quick (the thicker, nerve-filled section) of your dog’s nails. Plus, the handles are padded with cushy rubber grips for your in-hand comfort.

This clipper is available in both small and large sizes, so you can choose the right size for your dog. It can even be used on feline friends, just be sure to purchase the smaller size.

Best for Small Dogs: Shiny Pet Pet Nail Clippers for Small Animals

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Designed for use on small dogs or puppies (as well as other small pets, like cats, rabbits and birds), Shiny Pet’s Pet Nail Clippers are safe and easy to use on the tiniest paws.

This clipper is fitted with sharp, angled, stainless steel blades to cut nails quickly, cleanly and safely. The handles are made with 100% recycled plastic and finished with a slip-proof coating, so you’ll have a strong grip even if your pet squirms.

This manufacturer offers an unconditional return policy if you’re not happy with your purchase. Just tell Shiny Pet why you’re not satisfied with the product and they’ll offer a replacement or full refund.

Best for Large Dogs: Epica Best Professional Pet Nail Clipper

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Epica’s Professional Pet Nail Clipper has sharp, stainless steel blades that are perfectly sized and spaced for larger dogs’ nails. The design ensures you’ll get a clean, precise cut every time your large dog needs a paw-dicure.

Made with ultra-durable stainless steel, the blades on this clipper won't bend, scratch or rust, and will stay sharp after several clippings, even if your dog has tough nails. The handles are shaped to fit your fingers and are coated with anti-slip rubber for extra safety. Because this clipper is designed for larger dogs with stronger nails, you don’t have to use excessive force when clipping.

These clippers are loved for their strength, quality, and super affordable price tag. Plus, they’re backed by a 100% lifetime warranty, so if you ever have an issue with your purchase, the manufacturer can offer a resolution.

Best Automatic: URPOWER Rechargeable Pet Nail Grinder

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If your dog hates regular nail clippers, you might want to try a nail grinder. Although it takes a bit longer than using a traditional clipper, it’s a safe, simple way to gently remove layers of the nail.

This pick from URPOWER is constructed with a diamond bit grinder, which is safe and gentle, but powerful enough to trim your pet’s tough nails. It’s best for small or medium-sized pets, with three ports to use on different sized nails. Plus, you can recharge this nail grinder by USB. Once it’s fully charged, it can run for three solid hours.

Some dogs may be frightened by this nail grinder’s vibration, so introduce it slowly. The manufacturer recommends letting it run for a few minutes — before using it on your pet — so she can get used to the sound.

Best Safety Guard: GoPets Nail Clippers

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Damaging the quick in your dog’s nails can be extremely painful — and if your dog has very thick or black nails, it can be hard to tell where the quick begins. This clipper from GoPets has a built-in quick sensor and safety guard, so you can be extra sure you won’t cause any damage. Available in both small and large sizes, you can use this clipper on large dogs or small dogs and cats.

Made with high quality, 3.5mm thick stainless steel, the blades on this clipper create quick, clean cuts and will stay sharp after years of use. And its design offers additional safety for you and your pet: The large, non-slip handles are comfortable to hold and prevent slip-ups, while the quick guard prevents painful over-cutting.   

Best Guillotine: Resco Original Dog, Cat, and Pet Nail/Claw Clippers

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Resco invented the guillotine-style nail clipper back in 1937 and has been manufacturing their product ever since. As described earlier, guillotine clippers work exactly like a guillotine: Your dog’s nail is placed through a hole in the tool and a blade lowers to slice the end of the nail.

This clipper’s super sharp, micro-honed blades ensure your pet's nails won’t split or splinter during clippings. And if your blade ever dulls, it’s easy to replace; Resco has replacement blade kits you can also purchase through Amazon. The handle is made with no-slip rubber for your comfort and extra safety.

Resco offers a 100% lifetime warranty if you ever have an issue with your nail clipper.