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9 Best Dog Nail Clippers With Sensors in 2024: Reviews & Top Picks

Written by: Nicole Cosgrove

Last Updated on March 22, 2024 by Nicole Cosgrove

9 Best Dog Nail Clippers With Sensors in 2024: Reviews & Top Picks

a dog groomer clipping a dog's toe nail

Your dog needs regular nail trimming for more than just cosmetic reasons. Long nails that touch the floor are uncomfortable for your furry friend because they put weight pressure on the nail beds. They also increase the risk of ingrown nails and nail infections. Investing in quality nail clippers allows you to keep your pup’s nails well-trimmed without taking a trip to your groomer.

What if you have little or no experience trimming dog nails and fear hurting your pup?

Nail clippers with sensors lower the risk of over-cutting your dog’s nails. The sensor prevents cutting if the clipper is too close to the quick.

Are you looking for the best nail clippers with a sensor in 2023? Dive in for a detailed rundown of nine of the best products that we independently reviewed. We picked nail clippers that stand out for making clean, efficient cuts that are also comfortable for your pup.

Check them out!

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A Quick Look at Our Favorites in 2024

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Safari Professional Nail Trimmer for Dogs Safari Professional Nail Trimmer for Dogs
  • Good value for the money
  • Non-slip handles offer superb ergonomics
  • Sturdy tension spring
  • Best Value
    Second place
    Millers Forge Nail Clipper Millers Forge Nail Clipper
  • Affordable
  • Quality stainless steel blades
  • Versatile with a movable sensor
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    CHI Standard Nail Dog Clipper for Large Dogs CHI Standard Nail Dog Clipper for Large Dogs
  • Crafted of easy-to-clean aluminum
  • Ergonomic grip
  • Best For Puppies
    Zen Clipper Precise Junior Pet Nail Clipper Zen Clipper Precise Junior Pet Nail Clipper
  • Uniquely designed for puppies
  • Quality stainless steel blades
  • Non-slip handles for a comfortable grip
  • BOSHEL Dog Nail Clippers BOSHEL Dog Nail Clippers
  • Sharp, heavy-duty blades
  • Ergonomically designed anti-slip handles
  • Quality nail file included
  • 9 Best Dog Nail Clippers With Sensor

    1. Safari Professional Nail Trimmer for Dogs — Best Overall

    Safari Professional Nail Trimmer for Dogs

    Type: Scissors Clippers
    Blade Material: Stainless-Steel
    Handles Material: Rubber

    The Safari Professional Nail Trimmer for Dogs is a well-designed clipper that wins our best overall choice. While being quite affordable, it boasts the features of top-tier grooming tools, such as sharp stainless-steel blades and non-slip handles.

    Moreover, these scissors-style clippers have a sturdy tension spring that ensures enough pressure to make clean cuts without snagging your dog’s nails. While the safety sensor feature is pretty standard, it’s accurate in ascertaining you do not nip the quick of your small or medium-sized pooch.

    Overall, the Safari Professional Nail Trimmer makes dog nail trimming easy and fast. The clippers are comfortable to handle, irrespective of whether you are right or left-handed. Unfortunately, there are better products to consider if you have a larger dog with long, thick nails.

    Pros
    • Good value for the money
    • Non-slip handles offer superb ergonomics
    • Sturdy tension spring
    Cons
    • Not suitable for larger dogs

    2. Millers Forge Nail Clipper — Best Value

    Millers Forge Nail Clipper

    Type: Plier-Style Scissors
    Blade Material: Stainless-Steel
    Handles Material: Plastic Grips

    If you are looking for a quality product that is easy on your wallet, the Millers Forge Nail Clipper is your best bet. It’s well-designed to save you from trips to your groomer, especially when your pup only needs a touch-up. While the clippers have cheap-looking plastic handles, the spring-loaded cutting mechanism ensures clean cuts with minimal effort.

    The blades are made from heat-treated stainless steel, assuring you of their durability and ability to remain sharp for longer. There’s also an in-built safety stop to ensure you don’t overcut your pup’s nails. The best part is that the sensor is movable, and you can shift its position depending on your dog’s breed and the size of its nails.

    The Millers Forge Nail Clippers are available in two unique sizes. While the medium clippers are ideal if you have a small or medium dog, the large-size clippers are suited for big dogs with thicker nails.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • Quality stainless steel blades
    • Versatile with a movable sensor
    Cons
    • Cheap-looking plastic handles

    3. CHI Standard Nail Dog Clipper for Large Dogs — Premium Choice

    CHI Standard Nail Dog Clipper for Large Dogs

    Type: Plier-Style Scissors
    Blade Material: Stainless-Steel
    Handles Material: Aluminum & Rubber

    Our premium choice for nail trimmers with a sensor is the CHI Standard Nail Dog Clipper. This product works especially well if you have to take on thick nails with a quick clip and snip to avoid causing your pup unnecessary discomfort. Fortunately, products like the CHI Standard Nail Dog Clipper are easy to handle and equipped to cut off those tough daggers without leaving jagged edges.

    These clippers have a safety sensor that stops you from snipping the blood vessels of your large fur baby. Another impressive feature is the ergonomic handles that make it a breeze to cut accurate 45-degree trims in a single pass. While the handles mainly feature aluminum for easy cleaning, they also have a rubberized section that gives you a firm grip on your tool.

    Although a bit pricey, the CHI Standard Nail Dog Clipper is what you need to make grooming time more comfortable for your pet. Positioning the blade is fast and straightforward.

    Pros
    • Crafted of easy-to-clean aluminum
    • Ergonomic grip
    Cons
    • Pricey

    4. Zen Clipper Precise Junior Pet Nail Clipper — Best For Puppies

    Zen Clipper Precise Junior Pet Nail Clipper

    Type: Plier-Style Scissors
    Blade Material: Stainless-Steel
    Handles Material: Rubber

    Here’s a product uniquely designed for puppies. The Zen Clipper Precise Junior Pet Nail Clipper is ideal for canine companions under 25 pounds. Such dogs often have smaller nails, and it’s pretty easy to nick the quick when using the wrong clippers. The unique design of the Zen clipper also makes it perfect for use on your feline buddy.

    The stainless-steel blades remain sharp and effective for longer. You will also appreciate the adjustable safety stop that allows you to twitch the sensor’s position based on your dog’s nail size. Moreover, the clippers feature soft non-slip handles for a comfortable grip during nail trimming sessions.

    The Zen Clipper is a premium product with a premium price tag. While it is effective when cutting the nails of puppies and small dogs, it may not be ideal for larger canines with tough nails.

    Pros
    • Uniquely designed for puppies
    • Quality stainless steel blades
    • Non-slip handles for a comfortable grip
    Cons
    • Pricey
    • Only ideal for smaller dogs

    5. BOSHEL Dog Nail Clippers

    BOSHEL Dog Nail Clippers

    Type: Plier-Style
    Blade Material: Stainless-Steel
    Handles Material: Rubber

    We picked BOSHEL Dog Nail Clippers as our best overall for the quality of their design. These professional-grade clippers can be used at home to make cutting your furry friend’s nails safer and painless. While they are reasonably priced, they have sharp, heavy-duty stainless-steel blades for superior cutting power and ergonomically designed rubber handles for a good grip.

    The safety stop is one of the product’s best features, as it prevents you from cutting your pup’s sensitive quick. Whether you are a nail ninja or want to cut your dog’s nails for the first time, the sensor will ensure you do the job efficiently and painlessly. You can remove or move it depending on the size of your furry friend’s nails.

    A pleasant surprise that comes with the package is a quality nail file. This effectively removes those rough edges on the nails once you cut them. The only downside is that the BOSHEL Dog Nail Clippers are mainly ideal for medium and large dogs. While you can remove the sensor to make it suitable for a smaller dog, investing in a different product is safer.

    Pros
    • Sharp, heavy-duty blades
    • Ergonomically designed anti-slip handles
    • Quality nail file included
    Cons
    • Not the best option for smaller dogs

    6. Claw Claws Guillotine Type Dog Nail Clippers

    Claw Claws Guillotine Type Dog Nail Clippers

    Type: Guillotine-Style
    Blade Material: Stainless-Steel
    Handles Material: Slip-Resistant Rubber

    Clipping the daggers of a sensitive nailed dog can be an impossible task without the right grooming tool. For the best experience, you want to wrap up your nail-cutting sessions within the least time possible. The Claw Claws Guillotine Type Dog Nail Clippers ensure smooth cutting action to make trimming your animal’s nails quick and painless.

    The sharp stainless-steel blades allow clean cuts to minimize the time needed to file down jagged edges. Another bonus is the non-slip rubber handle for a comfortable grip and added safety when clipping the nails of a nervous pooch.

    However, this nail clipper may not be beginner friendly. If you have no experience, it is easier and safer to use grooming scissors or plier-style clippers.

    Pros
    • Smooth cutting action
    • Sharp stainless-steel blades
    • Less jagged edges to file
    Cons
    • Not the most beginner-friendly product

    7. Fifth & Fido Dog Nail Clippers

    Fifth & Fido Dog Nail Clippers

    Type: Pliers-Style
    Blade Material: Stainless-Steel
    Handles Material: Rubber

    The Fifth & Fido Dog Nail Clippers has a slot on our list of the nine best dog nail clippers with sensors for being one of the most versatile nail trimmers. While it is sturdy enough for professional use, its ease of use makes it an excellent choice for at-home use. The non-slip grip and in-built coil spring allow clean cuts with minimal effort.

    Furthermore, the movable safety sensor ensures you don’t overcut your dog’s nails. You can adjust the guard to make the clipper ideal for your fluffy friend, regardless of breed or size. Thanks to the heavy-duty spring and stainless-steel blades, you can even clip the nails of larger dogs without breaking a sweat.

    This product comes with a well-crafted nail file to soften those rough edges once you’re done cutting the nails. Generally, there’s nothing much to complain about, only that the clippers may feel too big for puppies.

    Pros
    • Ideal for small, medium, and large dogs
    • Comfortable non-slip handles
    • Nail file included
    Cons
    • Not ideal for puppies

    8. Tpotato Dog Nail Clippers

    Tpotato Dog Nail Clippers

    Type: Pliers-Style
    Blade Material: Stainless-Steel
    Handles Material: Slip-Resistant Silicone

    If you are looking for a quality, affordable, and user-friendly dog nail clipper with a quick sensor, the Tpotato Dog Nail Clippers are worth considering. First, this trimmer has extra-long handles with a slip-resistant silicone grip for more control during your spa sessions. Second, the razor-sharp stainless-steel blades ensure your pup’s nails don’t chip, fray, or split when cut.

    The extra-thick 3.5mm stainless steel provides clean trims and remains sharp for longer. There’s a nail file included in the package that you can use to polish any sharp edges to perfection.

    It’s normal for pet parents to worry about overcutting their dog’s nails. Fortunately, the Tpotato Dog Nail Clippers have a safety stop that takes out the guesswork when trimming your pet’s nails. Note that the sensor does not make the process entirely foolproof, and it’s necessary to be cautious. Tpotato offers excellent customer service, and you can always contact the brand if you have any questions.

    Pros
    • Comfortable, extra-long handles
    • Thick and super sharp blades
    • Reliable customer service
    • Nail file included
    Cons
    • Not entirely foolproof

    9. Anipaw Dog Nail Clippers & Trimmer Set

    Anipaw Dog Nail Clippers and Trimmer Set

    Type: Pliers-Style
    Blade Material: Stainless-Steel
    Handles Material: Non-Slip Rubber Coating

    The Anipaw Dog Nail Clipper and Trimmer Set are easy to use and ergonomically designed for a great grooming experience. While the clippers are lightweight, they feature sharp and thick stainless-steel blades for smooth and quick cuts. The non-slip rubber coating on the handles ensures a firm and comfortable grip.

    The package comes with one dog nail clipper with an adjustable stop blade to prevent hurting your fluffy friend when giving it a pedicure. You’ll also find quality grooming scissors and a nail file. Better still, these tools come in a nice little fabric sack, making them an excellent gift for a fellow pet parent.

    Even though Anipaw advertises this grooming set as ideal for all pet breeds and sizes, it works best on small and medium dogs. When used on larger dogs with thick nails, the clippers start showing signs of damage.

    Pros
    • Nail clipper, file, and scissors included
    • User-friendly design
    • Sharp stainless-steel blades
    Cons
    • Only ideal for small and medium dogs

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    Buyers Guide: Choosing the Best Dog Nail Clippers With Sensor

    There are numerous crucial reasons to trim your dog’s nails regularly. First, unkempt nails that strike the floor as your pup walks are aesthetically displeasing. Second, long nails curl, become ingrown, and increase the risk of nail infections if they go untrimmed for long. Most importantly, untrimmed nails are uncomfortable for your pup because they put pressure on the nail beds.

    If you are worried about causing more harm than good when trimming your pup’s nails, clippers with a nail quick sensor are your best bet. The sensor is a safety feature that stops you from cutting the quick. Your dog’s “quick” is the part of its nails with blood vessels. Even a small cut can cause profuse bleeding, and while it’s unlikely to be life-threatening, it can lead to immense pain and discomfort.

    Here are the key aspects to consider when choosing the right dog nail clippers with sensors.

    Type of Clippers

    The two main types of clippers include the following:
    • Guillotine clippers
    • Scissor clippers

    Scissor clippers, also known as pliers-style clippers, are the most common and function like ordinary scissors. Use the handles to pull the blades apart and squeeze them together to chop off the protruding nail in a clean cut. The scissor clippers are also the most versatile and ideal for small, medium, and big dogs with thick nails.

    One of the best perks of using scissor-style clippers is that they allow you to chop off tiny bits of the nail at a time. Generally, they are the easiest to use and a top choice for first-time pet parents.

    Guillotine clippers have a hole where you slide in your pup’s nails. They have a single blade that slides to cut off your dog’s nails. Guillotine clippers are more complicated to use than scissor-style clippers, and some practice is necessary. While the clippers are available in different sizes, they are often unsuitable for larger dogs with thick nails.

    a person trimming a dog's nails
    Image Credit: Duet PandG, Shutterstock

    Size

    Safety should be a priority when shopping for the best dog nail clippers with a sensor. If you have a small or medium dog, it will likely have thinner nails you can clip off using small clippers.

    Investing in a large clipper would, in this case, increase the odds of injuries, even if the product has a nail sensor. Larger clippers exert extra force and are designed for cutting the thicker nails of bigger pups. It is imperative to choose a clipper whose dimensions match the nail size of your dog.

    Ergonomics

    Your comfort is crucial to enhancing your chances of giving your pup the best spa experience. It is necessary to ensure your clippers of choice have a comfortable slip-resistant grip. Consider products with rubberized or anti-slip handles because they are easier to squeeze, even for pet parents with sweaty hands.

    Blade Quality

    Sharp blades make clean cuts without splitting the nail or leaving rough edges. This also makes your work easier and faster without causing unnecessary discomfort to your animal.

    For the best experience, avoid nail clippers with dull blades. Stainless steel blades are the best because they are rust resistant. While they can get dull over time, they remain sharp for longer, reducing the need to sharpen them routinely.

    cutting dog`s nails
    Image Credit: Padu Foto, Shutterstock

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    How to Trim Your Dog’s Nails With a Nail Clipper

    Nail clippers with a sensor essentially have a safety guard. They are ideal for pet parents inexperienced in trimming dog nails because the quarter-inch guard ensures you don’t cut too close to the quick. While this makes it generally safer to trim your dog’s nails from home, it doesn’t make the process foolproof.

    Here is how to ensure you don’t over-trim your pup’s nails and make the spa experience comfortable and painless.

    Get Your Tools Ready

    The first step is assembling all the necessary tools to trim your pup’s nails. They include your clippers, some styptic powder, and a nail grinder or file.

    Prepare Your Pup for the Session

    A nail clipper is a sharp tool that can potentially injure your dog, especially if it’s fussy and restless. It pays to keep your furry friend relaxed by offering its favorite treat and starting with a patting or cuddling session. If your dog has a hyperactive temperament and you are not a grooming ninja, consider asking a friend to pet your dog and hold it down as you trim its nails.

    woman giving old dog a treat
    Image Credit: SeventyFour, Shutterstock

    Start Trimming!

    Once your fluffy friend is relaxed, ensure your “spa room” is well-lit before you get to the job. Hold the toe whose nail you want to trim between your thumb and index finger. Apply gentle pressure to ensure it remains still. Start by clipping the tip of the nail and work your way inwards.

    As you move to each toe, ensure your pet feels relaxed and loved.

    Unfortunately, not even the best nail clippers with sensors can guarantee accident-free nail-cutting sessions. If an accident happens, use the styptic powder to stop the bleeding quickly. Remember to pet your pup and offer a treat to help it calm down.

    Do Some Final Touches

    Sharp nail ends are just as uncomfortable as long nails. They get caught in bedding and rugs, not to mention that they can poke through your flesh when cuddling with your dog. Before you wrap up your spa session, use your nail grinder or file to add a smooth, rounded edge to your pup’s nails.

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    FAQs

    How Often Does My Dog Need to Have Its Nails Trimmed?

    The ideal frequency for trimming your pup’s nails depends on various factors. These factors include your dog’s breed and how fast the nails grow. The daily routines of your fluffy friend will also dictate whether the nails will wear down naturally or you must trim them. Indoor or less active canines typically require more frequent nail trims. Generally, dogs need nail trimming every one to two months.

    How Do I Sharpen Dog Nail Clippers?

    Sharpening dog nail clippers is a simple and painless task. You can get the tool to make clean and efficient cuts by sharpening it with a grinding stone, ceramic rod, or diamond-tapered rod. Disassemble the clippers and run the sharpening tool on either side of the blade. Before assembling the clippers, add lubricant to the spring and screws.

    What if I Want to Cut My Dog’s Nails Shorter?

    Some nail clippers with sensors allow you to remove the sensor and cut your dog’s nails shorter. Essentially, the sensor works at a fixed distance to prevent clipping the quick. If you feel your pup’s nails are still too long, only cut a tiny bit at a time. A week or so is enough to allow the quick to retreat, ensuring you can cut the nails shorter without harming your pet.

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    Conclusion

    When your pup wants to hug you after a long day of work, the last thing you want to worry about is its daggers poking your shoulders. Generally, well-trimmed nails can spice up your bonding sessions, allowing you to enjoy cuddles without fear of getting hurt.

    Our best overall choice is the Safari Professional Nail Trimmer for Dogs because it offers commendable efficiency, durability, and great value for the money. However, another great choice is the Millers Forge Nail Clipper, which is ideal if you are on a budget. For the ultimate grooming experience, we recommend our premium choice, the CHI Standard Nail Dog Clipper.

    See Also:


    Featured Image Credit: Oleggg, Shutterstock

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