How often to clip nails?

[derecskey]

Before our little 7 1/2 week old Cairn Terrier, I have not had a dog in my adult life. How often should I expect to have the nails clipped? I really don't think I'll be doing this myself, as I don't know what I'm doing. I think I'm really more comfortable with someone qualified doing this. Is this something the vet does, the groomer does, or both? How often?

[kayharley]

You can have your vet clip the nails or even the groomer but I think it's better if you do it yourself. It's not hard once you get the hang of it.

Have a professional show you at first. I clip my girls's nails every week. I only take the tips off and this way I get used to the growth pattern and just how much to clip. If you get a quality clipper, some steptic powder, just in case you get too close to the quick, and establish a routine it should be fairly easy. If your Cairn balks too much, just do one paw at a time and go slow. Good Luck