For those of us who are afraid to use the nail clippers on our pets, I've discovered that using a Dremel sanding tool is quick and easy. The noise is minimal and you can sand both sides of the nail before aiming toward the quick. It's also chargeable so there's no cord to get in the way.
Just be careful to not hold the grinder in one place for too long, the nail gets too hot and is painful for the dog.
My dog is a large breed with very large and tough nails. This was a most unpleasant task until I discovered a Dremel tool! I used the larger grade sanding wheel for my dogs nail size and thickness.
To make trimming my Chihuahua's nails a little more safe, I use a small Dremel tool with a sanding hub. The noise is very low.
This is a tip I got from my vet several years ago. She said to use a Dremel tool to keep my dogs' nails trimmed.