Coastal's Safari Dog Nail File is specially contoured to conform to the shape of your pet's nails. Holding the toe firmly, file in a smooth stroke on the tip of the nail. File from the back to the tip, following the contour of the nail. Do not file in the opposite direction. A few strokes on each side of the nail will remove burs and leave your pet's nails smooth and healthy. Properly trimming and filing nails is important to your pet's comfort and health. Be sure to accustom your dog to having its nails cared for at an early age to make the experience an enjoyable one.