Oh geez...poor dog. I knew someone who adopted a dog with horrible nails and the only way the nails could be done that first time was with a vet appointment and anesthesia. Remember...the quick grows out and even a well-adjusted dog will react to the pain of those nails being cut.
Good luck...you definitely want to get those nails taken care of (rather, it's good that you care and I know you want the dog to be able to walk comfortably).