Do it Yourself Dog Haircuts

Many pet owners find that it is far more convenient to do their own dog grooming. Not only do dogs tend to be calmer in a familiar environment, but cutting your dog's hair provides an opportunity for the two of you to bond. Additionally, do it yourself dog haircuts can save a lot of money over the lifetime of your dog.

Things You'll Need

  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Towel
  • Brush
  • Dematting comb or rake
  • Power clippers
  • Thinning scissors
  • Standard scissors
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Instructions

    • 1
      Pay a little more money for better quality clippers and tools.

      Choose the right dog grooming clippers. Some brands are inexpensive and others are more costly. As with many things, cheaper brands are typically not as high-quality as the more expensive brands. Oster and Andis, for example, are high-quality professional clippers available in various speeds and types.

    • 2
      Washing the dog is an enjoyable activity for the whole family.

      Wash the dog thoroughly with a natural shampoo and conditioner. Towel down the dog and let the hair dry completely. Brush and comb the dog's hair. Use a rake or dematting comb if matted areas are present. This will make it easier on the power clippers and help them last longer.

    • 3

      Use a fairly long comb attachment for the power clippers. If the clippers did not come with a set of comb attachments, choose the longest setting.

    • 4

      Trim the dog's whole body the same length. Hold the trimmer flat on the body and trim in long strokes. Trim in the same direction as the hair is growing. Use a shorter comb attachment or setting to trim the anal area, under the stomach and inside the back legs. These areas should be trimmed shorter than the rest of the body. The remaining area underneath the body can be trimmed the same length as the body.

    • 5

      Trim the ears and tail with the same comb attachment used on the body. Alternatively, you can use scissors to trim the dog's ears and tail.

    • 6

      Trim the face. Use thinning scissors to trim the hair across the corner of the eyes and bridge of the nose. Use standard scissors to trim the hair across the top of the eyes to a point where the dog can see.