How to Groom a Long Haired Dog With Clippers

Long-haired dogs like Afghan Hounds, Setters and Spaniels can overheat in warm weather when their fur gets too long. They are also likely to get mats unless they are brushed frequently. Shortening their coats makes both problems easier to manage and the best way to do that is with dog clippers. There is no danger of stabbing or cutting your dog, as there is with scissors. Clippers, however, are noisy and that can unnerve some dogs. So until you and your long-haired dog are used to the clippers, you should take it slow.

Things You'll Need

  • Brush
  • Clippers
  • Pictures of how you want your dog to look
  • Dog treats
  • Thinning scissors
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove any mats from your long-haired dog first. Brush your dog and cut out mats with scissors that won̵7;t untangle with a brush.

    • 2

      Wash and dry your dog before clipping. Before you start to shorten his fur his coat should be clean and dry.

    • 3

      Find pictures of how you want your dog to look and use those pictures for reference as you clip.

    • 4

      Put your dog on a stable surface like a table that will allow you to comfortably reach all of his coat.

    • 5

      Clip your dog̵7;s face, neck and ears first. These are sensitive areas, the noise of the clippers may alarm your dog and, depending on the temperament of your dog, he may be more patient if the most frightening part ends first while he is still able to remain brave. Clip your dogs belly and tail last.

    • 6

      Work deliberately. Hold portions of your dog̵7;s coat with your fingers, with your hand between his skin and the clippers, and clip the hair above your hand. Clipper blades get hot and snap-on combs for your clippers can be unreliable with long-haired dogs. You can always cut his fur shorter if you don̵7;t like the results.

    • 7

      Give your dog treats as you work and tell him he is a good dog in a soothing voice. It is easier to clip a cooperative dog than a panicked one.

    • 8

      Stop when your long-haired dog insists you stop. You may not finish clipping your dog all in one session the first time you try. You want your long-haired dog to learn to tolerate clipping.

    • 9

      Blend shorter hair with longer hair by using thinning scissors after you are done clipping.