Overgrown claws are not just untidy. They catch on carpet and bedding, they push the toes out of alignment and change how a dog stands, and left long enough they alter the load through wrists and hips. Keeping them short is a five-minute job every couple of weeks with the right tool, and a blunt or flimsy clipper is what turns that job into a wrestling match neither of you enjoys.

These have stainless-steel blades that hold an edge, so each cut goes through cleanly instead of crushing the nail and leaving a splintered end that snags. The handle is non-slip, which matters more than it sounds when you are holding a paw that keeps trying to leave, and a built-in safety guard limits how much nail passes through the jaws to help you take a sensible amount off. They are compact and easy to wipe clean after use.

• Sharp stainless-steel blades for clean cuts
• Non-slip handle for steady control
• Built-in safety guard against over-cutting
• Suits small to medium dogs
• Compact enough for a grooming bag
• Simple to wipe down after each trim

On the quick, and on size. The safety guard is a guide, not a guarantee, and the quick sits further down some nails than others, especially dark ones where you cannot see it. Take small slices rather than one confident cut, and keep styptic powder in the drawer in case. If claws are already very long, the quick has grown out with them and will need several light trims a fortnight apart to recede. Thick claws on a large breed are better served by a heavier clipper than this one.

Who it's for: Owners of small to medium dogs who trim at home between grooming appointments and want a clipper that cuts cleanly.