How to Shave Springer Spaniels

Springer Spaniels were originally bred as hunting dogs. This dog is an energetic, quick learner that is eager to please. Springers have a long coat that frequently sheds. This dog requires constant brushing and trimming to keep the fur free of mats, which can harbor fungus, leading to infection. The most common look of a Springer Spaniel is shaved on the back and head with feathering on the legs, ears, chest and sides.

Things You'll Need

  • Thinning sheers
  • Comb
  • Brush
  • Scissors
  • Clippers with No. 7 and No. 10 blades
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Instructions

    • 1

      Bathe, blow dry and brush out your Springer Spaniel's coat. This will make the job of shaving much easier because the coat will be clean, smooth and tangle free. Blow dry hair straight down to avoid snarls.

    • 2

      Start with the ears. Shave the top 1/3 of the ear with a No. 10 blade in the direction that the hair grows, beginning at the bulge. Repeat on opposite ear. Comb out and trim the bottom portion of each ear so it is rounded and even. Remove hair from both sides of ear and underneath so it lies flat, giving a neat appearance.

    • 3

      Shave the muzzle and sides of face lightly going with the grain with a No. 10 blade. Avoid pushing down, which will get too close and give an unnatural look. Move to head area starting at the brows, hold the blade flat and shave the top of head. Blend area with ears by using thinning shears.

    • 4

      Use a No. 7 blade for the body. Move with the grain and shave half way down each side of the dog. Blend the shaved portion of the back with the longer hair on the sides by using thinning sheers. Continue using thinning sheers to blend the throat, chest, thighs and rump.

    • 5

      Comb out the long hair on the legs and, using scissors, trim off the hair in a straight line up from the back of the feet. Continue by combing out the long hair on the sides and trimming in a straight, neat line, making sure each side matches. Cut any stray hair or curls that are sticking out.

    • 6

      Trim tail area by flipping hair over to one side and combing, cut a straight line with scissors. Flip hair over to other side of tail and repeat process. Trim end of tail and under tail.