As you're coaxing your dog into a bath, a resisting paw can leave a painful mark. So for your own benefit as well as your dog's, clip his nails first.

Make sure the nail trimmer is sharp; a dull blade could split and crack the nail. Always clip only the very tips.

The Millers-Forge Safety Bar Nail Trimmer ($6 from www.drsfostersmith.com) reduces the chance that you will cut the quick (the internal nerve and vein) and hurt your pet.