Nail trimmings are a very important part of grooming and a good place to start with obedience training.  Many types of pets do not like to have their feet handled or touched.  This can make regular nail trimmings a hassle and a fearful time for your pet.  Some pets get so worked up that they scream and bite as if they are being tortured.  Nail trimmings (when done properly) are perfectly harmless and painless.  We never recommend sedating an animal to do a nail trimming.  We always recommend starting as soon as you get your pet with handling the feet and introducing the clipper so that they realize it will not harm them.  If you make nail trimming or any grooming process fun, they will look forward to the "chore".

Start by playing, touching, scratching the feet/paw area several times per day for a couple of weeks or until they become comfortable with having their feet/paws handled.  Be sure to use lots of positive reinforcement and treats! 

Next, introduce the clippers by laying the clippers next to your pet while playing, touching and scratching their feet/paws.  Do this for another week or so.

Finally, pet their feet/paws with the clippers, making sure not to use the clippers.  After a couple days of this, start trimming just the tips of the nail so they get used to the feel.  Be sure to use lots of treats