How to Shave Your Lab

In the event that your lab's coat becomes matted or he is having issues with chronic hot spots -- a localized infection of the skin -- you may want to consider shaving him. While vets do not typically recommended this for keeping your dog cool in the summer, as a dog sweats through his paws, shaving your lab can help with these issues.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog shampoo
  • Grooming clippers
  • Grooming scissors
  • Brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain a high quality clipper meant for dogs. You can typically find these at most major pet stores and several mass retailers. Make sure the item you choose has a selection of guards in different lengths.

    • 2

      Wash your lab with a cleansing shampoo. Thoroughly wet down your lab's coat with lukewarm water, making sure it is not too hot for her skin, and massage a dog shampoo thoroughly into her hair. Rinse your dog carefully, making sure there is no shampoo or residue left. Cleansing your dog's hair prior to shaving her will help you to achieve a cleaner cut and prevent oil or dirt from dulling the blades of your clippers.

    • 3

      Have your dog stand on a low table so he is easier to reach. Choose the longest guard from your pet grooming kit to start. You want to make sure not to cut too much at first, as you can always go shorter later.

    • 4

      Shave between your lab's eyes going against the grain and then move on to the rest of her face. When doing this, it is extremely important to keep your dog still to avoid any injury. It can be helpful to have a friend or family member help to hold the dog's head.

    • 5

      Move down the neck with the clippers, again against the grain. Shave his chest as well, being careful under his front legs.

    • 6

      Shave her entire body, working against the grain. Cutting in this manner will help to ensure that you shave evenly, as cutting with the hair often produces lines in the coat. Make sure to shave your lab's backside and underneath the tail thoroughly, as this is where many lab's hair is longest.

    • 7

      Cut gently over your lab's legs, and trim his tail if needed. In general, it is best not to use clippers in this area. If there are long hairs on the tail, use a pair of sharp grooming scissors to trim them.

    • 8

      Brush your lab with a soft grooming brush to get rid of any cut hair and wash your dog again with dog shampoo. This will also help to get rid of any remaining hair, which can make your dog uncomfortable.