clipping dogs nails

Question
We have inherited a large (80+lbs) pit bull bull terrior mix. She is very lovable but also extremely active. Her nails need to be clipped terribly she is tearing up the furniture and she loves to shake hands but every time I come near her with the clippers she freaks out. She's a good girl but doesn't know her own strength. I'm afraid to take her to a groomer for fear she will hurt someone. Help!!

Answer
Hello Jackie, This is the method I use when I have a difficult dog to clip nails on. You will need two people for this method. The best way to handle this is to put the dog in submission. Actually once a dog is in submission they feel more secure and less afraid. What is this? Well you lay the dog down on their side feet facing away from you, reach across the dogs body to hold onto the bottom two legs, one front and one back. Bottom meaning the two legs closest to the table, or floor. Doing this you prevent the dog from pulling the leg underneath of him allowing him to get up. Hold on to those legs! The arms are as I said reaching across the dog, so use the forearms to press on to the body to further prevent the dog from getting up. Once you have successfully gotten control of the dog. This may take a few min. of struggling, but under no circumstances let go and allow the dog to get up this means you have lost control. If you commit yourself you will gain control. The other person, your friend, then can clip the nails. If need be stop after each nail to regain control. Important, do not lose control, your dog will eventually concede if you keep control. Never clip the nails with out quick stop available. This will stop the bleeding if you cut the nail to short. Good Luck, Cindy Lou :) This method has worked for me and I know it will work for you.