Keeping your dog's toenails clipped.

I only get to have my dog's toenails clipped every three months when I have the chance to take them to the groomer myself. There are actually pet nail clippers for sale but I don't know how they work and I'm terrified of hurting my dog. Clio doesn't like her two front paws being touched especially when I'm looking for ticks. But I am considering of just doing it myself because our floor is covered in tiles and it kind of makes it hard for her to run around when she looks like she's slipping. Plus, she tends to pick up a lot of dirt from the garden.