I get it—cutting your Shih Tzu’s nails can feel so intimidating. I’ve been there. For the longest time, I avoided it completely. I was scared I’d hurt my pup, and honestly? We often ended up at the groomer just to make sure his nails were safe and clean. It took a lot of trial and error (and a few years!) before I felt confident enough to do it myself.
If you’re a first-time Shih Tzu owner, you’re not alone. These little fluffballs can be extra wiggly, and their tiny nails don’t make things easier. That’s why choosing the right nail clippers matters—it’s about safety, comfort, and control.
In this post, I’m sharing some of the best nail clippers I’ve found for Shih Tzus—including a modern option that really surprised me. These are tools I personally think are worth trying. I’ve broken down their features, shared what other small dog owners are saying, and noted what might or might not work depending on your pup’s needs.
6 Best Nail Clippers for Shih Tzus For Sale 2025 Reviews and Ratings
1. Candure Dog Nail Clippers and Trimmer
Rating: 4.6 stars
Best for: Owners who want built-in safety features and multi-pet use
The Candure Dog Nail Clippers are designed with safety in mind. They include a built-in guard to prevent over-cutting and a locking mechanism for secure storage. The ergonomic grip helps reduce hand strain, making this tool ideal for small to large pets—dogs, cats, rabbits, and even birds.
These clippers are made from stainless steel and include a spring mechanism that lessens the effort required to cut. The kit also includes a nail file for smooth finishing. This makes it especially useful for new pet owners looking to groom their pets safely at home.
What We Like
- Safety guard helps prevent over-cutting.
- Includes a nail file for smoother edges.
- Locking mechanism improves storage safety.
- Thick, non-slip handles reduce hand fatigue.
- Sharp stainless steel blades cut cleanly.
Could Be Better
- The nail file is hard to use with active dogs.
- Safety guard may shift if not checked between cuts.
- Not ideal for dogs with very thick nails.
- Lock can slide unintentionally while in use.
What Customers Say
Most buyers are happy with the performance. Many say the clippers are sharp and easy to use. Several owners of multiple pets—including cats and rabbits—like the versatility.
One Shih Tzu owner said, “My puppy actually let me clip her nails! Excellent product.” Another user appreciated how little force was needed: “I normally struggle, but not with these.”
However, not all feedback is positive. A few reviewers reported that the safety guard didn’t stay in place, causing injury. One reviewer wrote, “It clipped too much and hurt my puppy. She was bleeding all over the place.”
Others said the tool was ineffective for dogs with thick nails, calling it cheaply made or dull. There were also complaints about the lock moving during use, which made trimming frustrating.
Verdict
The Candure Dog Nail Clippers work well for most small and medium dogs, especially if you’re just starting. The safety guard is a helpful feature—but should be checked between each nail to avoid shifting. For Shih Tzu owners with standard grooming needs, this tool is a convenient and affordable choice.
2. Epica Professional Dog Nail Clipper
Rating: 4.5 stars
Best for: Owners who want high-quality blades and a precise grip
The Epica Professional Nail Clippers are built for long-lasting use. They feature sharp, stainless steel blades that offer clean, controlled cuts. A semi-circular blade design allows you to see exactly where you’re cutting, making it easier to avoid the quick.
These clippers come in two sizes, and the Small/Medium option is ideal for Shih Tzus. The rubber-coated handles ensure a solid grip, even if your pup gets squirmy.
There’s also a safety lock to keep the blades closed when not in use. This makes the Epica clippers safer to store in homes with children or other pets.
What We Like
- Sharp, semi-circular blades improve precision.
- Comfortable, rubberized handles.
- Solid stainless steel construction.
- Safety lock keeps blades closed during storage.
- Two size options based on dog size.
Could Be Better
- Some clippers develop rust despite being stainless steel.
- Loud clipping sound may scare anxious dogs.
- Guard can loosen during use.
- Handle may pinch fingers if not gripped properly.
- Not built for dogs with very thick nails.
What Customers Say
Many users praised the sharpness and sturdiness. One said, “On first use, the product seems solid and the clippers sharp and effective.” Another user mentioned, “These are my favorite nail clippers, hands down.”
People like the visibility offered by the blade shape, which helps avoid accidents. Pet owners also appreciated how easy they are to control, even for beginners.
However, some reviewers experienced problems. A few reported rusting despite storing them indoors. Others said the safety guard loosens too easily. One buyer noted, “These are not ideal for dogs who already dislike nail trimming.”
There were also quality concerns. A handle broke during the third use for one customer, who warned against using them for thick or overgrown nails.
3. LOPSIC Dog Nail Grinder with LED Lights and Multiple Grinding Heads
Rating: 4.4 stars
Best for: Dogs sensitive to noise or afraid of clipping
The LOPSIC Dog Nail Grinder is a modern alternative to traditional nail clippers. It uses a rotary grinder to gently file down the nail rather than snipping it. This approach helps prevent over-cutting and reduces the risk of bleeding. Designed with two speed settings and three grinding ports, it adapts to various nail sizes and hardness levels.
It includes two built-in LED lights to help you avoid hitting the quick. This makes it easier to groom safely, even in low-light conditions. The package also includes extra grinding bits, a dust cap, and a velvet pouch.
What We Like
- Ultra-quiet operation under 40dB.
- Two adjustable speeds suit different nail hardness.
- LED lights improve visibility and safety.
- Three grinding ports for different nail sizes.
- Rechargeable and cordless for flexible use.
Could Be Better
- Build quality may not hold up long-term.
- Grinder tip may detach during use.
- Not ideal for very long or thick nails unless clipped first.
- Some accessories, like the clipper, are of low quality.
- Battery performance may decline after a few uses.
What Customers Say
Dog owners who struggle with clippers often call this grinder a “game changer.” One user said, “My dog never let me clip his nails, but now he sits still.” Another reported fewer injuries and no bleeding compared to traditional clippers.
A reviewer shared, “The light helps me guide his little toe into the right spot. No more trauma for him—or me.”
Still, there are notable complaints. Some found the grinder broke after a few uses or stopped holding a charge. One user said, “The dremel broke and the grinder pops off every time.” Another noted, “You still need to clip first—this doesn’t grind down thick nails efficiently.”
Verdict
The LOPSIC Grinder is best for small to medium dogs with moderate nail growth. It’s especially useful for owners whose dogs are nervous or uncooperative during grooming. While the quiet motor and LED lights are big wins, the product’s long-term durability is uncertain.
4. PAKEWAY Pet Nail Clipper with LED and UV Light
Rating: 4.5 stars
Best for: Precision cuts and added safety for light-colored nails
The PAKEWAY Nail Clipper stands out because of its built-in LED light and UV lamp. The LED light helps you see the bloodline in lighter-colored nails, reducing the risk of cutting too deep. The UV light can highlight skin issues like ringworm, although it may not work as effectively in well-lit environments.
This clipper uses a battery-powered system and can be recharged through a USB port. It includes a safety lock and ergonomic handle for better control.
What We Like
- LED light helps with nail visibility.
- USB rechargeable battery for convenience.
- Safety lock prevents accidental cuts.
- UV light can help detect some skin conditions.
- Sharp blades with angled tips for easier positioning.
Could Be Better
- Light doesn’t help with black nails.
- Bulky light positioning blocks nail visibility.
- Blades may dull after a few uses.
- Not suitable for large or thick nails.
- Build quality could be improved.
What Customers Say
Several users praised the sharpness and ease of use. One said, “Sharp, quick, easy to use, and the light helps a lot.” Another reviewer commented, “It works well for my small dog with clear nails.”
However, not all found the LED helpful. One user explained, “The light is under the blades, so it gets blocked while cutting.” Others found the UV light weak and the lock awkward to use. A few said the plastic felt cheap and the blades dulled quickly.
Still, many pet owners with small dogs or cats were happy with the product. It works well for trimming only the tips, especially when the quick is visible.
Verdict
The PAKEWAY clipper is a great tool for precise trimming—especially if your Shih Tzu has clear or light-colored nails. While the LED is not helpful for black nails, the sharp blades and comfortable grip still make this a solid grooming tool for most small dog owners.
5. WeinaBingo Nail Clippers with Free Nail File
Rating: 4.5 stars
Best for: Budget-conscious owners looking for a basic, effective clipper
This pet nail clipper offers a straightforward approach to grooming. Made from stainless steel, the blades are designed to provide a quick and clean cut. It includes a safety ring-blade design to help guide the cutting angle and reduce the chance of cutting into the quick.
The ergonomic handles suit both left- and right-handed users, and the included nail file allows you to smooth sharp edges after trimming. This clipper works across a variety of pet sizes and nail types.
What We Like
- Sharp stainless steel blade delivers clean cuts.
- Comfortable, ambidextrous handle design.
- Safety ring-blade guides cutting angle.
- Comes with a nail file for smoothing edges.
- Lightweight and easy to control.
Could Be Better
- No safety guard to prevent over-cutting.
- May dull after a few uses, especially on thick nails.
- Some parts may feel flimsy or break under pressure.
- Not ideal for owners who want visual aids like LED lights.
- Inconsistent build quality across batches.
What Customers Say
Satisfied buyers say this clipper cuts cleanly and with little pressure. “I trimmed my dog’s nails while he was sleeping. He didn’t even notice,” one reviewer shared. Many praise the clippers for their quiet operation and simplicity.
Another user added, “I like this because it doesn’t make that loud snapping sound. It’s perfect for my high-anxiety dog.”
However, others noted issues after multiple uses. “Blades dull quickly” and “pin broke after a few weeks” were common complaints. A few reviews also highlighted the clipper bending rather than cutting through thicker nails.
Verdict
This clipper is a good value for first-time dog owners with dogs who don’t have overly thick nails. It lacks advanced features, but it gets the job done for basic at-home grooming.
6. Thunderpaws LED Dog Nail Clippers with Light
Rating: 4.5 stars
Best for: Owners who want a safety-first clipper with visibility enhancements
The Thunderpaws Nail Clippers offer premium construction and user-friendly features. A built-in LED light helps illuminate the nail for safer cutting, especially on light-colored nails. The product also includes a safety guard to prevent over-trimming and a lock for secure storage.
Made from stainless steel, the blades are sharp enough for thick and black nails. The ergonomic, non-slip rubber handles ensure a comfortable grip, even during long grooming sessions.
What We Like
- Built-in LED light helps locate the quick.
- Safety guard prevents over-cutting.
- Comfortable, non-slip handle design.
- Sharp blades suitable for thick and black nails.
- Trusted by groomers and veterinarians.
Could Be Better
- LED is less helpful on dark or black nails.
- Safety guard may block full visibility.
- Some complaints about blade dullness.
- May splinter nails if not used properly.
- Not ideal for very small nails.
What Customers Say
Pet owners like the LED light for improving visibility and confidence. One said, “The light helps me cut just the right amount. I’m no longer afraid to trim nails.”
Another reviewer wrote, “Clean cuts every time. My pug has black nails, and this still worked well.”
Not everyone had a great experience. Some said the clippers arrived dull or became dull quickly. A few noted that the safety guard can be tricky to position, and others felt it didn’t help much with very dark nails.
Verdict
The Thunderpaws Nail Clippers are a solid choice for dog owners who want added safety features. They work well for most medium to large dogs and can help reduce trimming anxiety with the built-in LED.
Ready to trim nails with more confidence and less guesswork?
Buy the Thunderpaws LED Dog Nail Clippers Here
Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Nail Clippers for Your Shih Tzu
Finding the best nail clippers for your Shih Tzu—or any small dog—depends on your comfort level, your pet’s temperament, and the tools’ quality. Each product on this list offers a unique combination of design, ease of use, and safety features to meet different grooming needs.
If your Shih Tzu hates the loud snap of traditional clippers, a quiet grinder like the LOPSIC Dog Nail Grinder may be your best bet. It gently wears down nails and helps reduce anxiety. If you’re new to grooming and want visual guidance, the Thunderpaws or PAKEWAY clippers with LED lights can make trimming safer, especially for light-colored nails.
For pet owners who prefer a no-frills approach, the Dog Cat Pets Nail Clippers or the Candure Nail Clippers offer simple, effective cutting with solid stainless steel blades. Meanwhile, the Epica Professional Clipper stands out for its durability and clean cutting performance, which suits both beginners and seasoned groomers.
Still unsure? Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Best for beginners: Thunderpaws or PAKEWAY (LED light and safety guard)
- Best for anxious dogs: LOPSIC Dog Nail Grinder (quiet and low vibration)
- Best value clippers: WeinaBingo Nail Clippers (budget-friendly and sharp)
- Best for thick nails: Epica or Candure (strong blades and ergonomic grip)
Trimming your Shih Tzu’s nails doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right tool, you can safely groom at home and save time and money on vet visits.
Ready to groom with confidence?
Explore the options above, choose what fits your pet best, and start enjoying stress-free nail care from home.
