Dog Hair Cut Instructions

Giving your dog a hair cut can provide it with a new, clean look. Doing it yourself can save you money and a trip to the groomer. A shorter coat can keep your dog cool in summertime as well as get rid of any hair that has become matted and unmanageable.

Things You'll Need

  • Comb
  • Brush
  • Hair-cutting scissors
  • Clippers
  • Shampoo
  • Blow dryer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Brush your dog thoroughly before beginning the cutting process. Use a comb or brush to remove any tangles from your dog's coat.

    • 2

      Decide on the length you want your dog's hair cut. Generally, one to two inches long works well.

    • 3

      Cut the hair around the legs, muzzle and neck. Cut the hair at an angle, especially around the dog's face. Be sure the dog is able to see easily out of his eyes and can open his mouth without getting it full of hair. You can use a regular pair of hair cutting scissors to perform this step.

    • 4

      Use a 9-10 clipper for a dog with longer hair. Use the clipper on the dog's armpits, crotch, belly, butt and tail.

    • 5

      Use the 9-10 clipper around the dog's face, ears and the top of its back. Use a comb to navigate the clipper around the eyes and muzzle. Be especially cautious around these areas. Place your hand under the ear to make sure you don't cut the edges of the dog's ear.

    • 6

      Use a 7-8 clipper to groom the dog's legs and paws.

    • 7

      Examine the dog to see if the hair is even. If the dog's coat is uneven, continue cutting until the coat is even.

    • 8

      Shampoo your dog. This will get rid of any excess hair on your dog's coat.

    • 9

      Dry your dog. You can allow your dog to dry naturally or use a blow dryer to dry its coat. Blow drying your dog's hair is faster and will be better for your dog if the weather is cold.

    • 10

      Brush the entire coat to remove any cut hair that might be left. Brushing the coat will also help you determine if you have missed any spots.