How to Use Clippers on a Pet

Trimming your pet̵7;s hair involves the use of clippers that are right for the type of pet you have and the type of coat your pet has. The current length of the coat will also help you determine the size of the clipper blade to use. Move the pet clippers in short strokes and in one direction for a more even cut. For best results, choose clippers for pets that are relatively quiet. Noisy clippers may frighten your pet.

Things You'll Need

  • Clippers
  • Clipper blades
  • Noose
  • Table
  • Slicker brush
  • Mat comb
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Instructions

    • 1

      Begin by brushing out your pet̵7;s hair to remove any mats and tangles. In ̶0;The Simple Guide to Grooming Your Dog,̶1; authors Eve Adamson and Sandy Roth advice holding the hair at the root to work out a tangle, either with a slicker brush or a mat comb. Bathe and dry your pet.

    • 2

      Place your pet̵7;s head in a noose to keep it steady. If your pet is a dog or a smaller animal, it is practical to place it on an elevated surface, such as a table. This reduces the amount of bending necessary. The noose will also stop your pet from falling off the table.

    • 3

      Choose a clipper size and blade that is right for your pet̵7;s hair. The shorter the teeth on the blade, the shorter the cut.

    • 4

      Trim the hair on the back and sides of your dog. Run the clipper in one direction, starting from the head and following the direction of the growth of the hair. Remove the noose so you can run the clipper over the neck, under the chin and down the throat. Replace the noose.

    • 5

      Place your pet̵7;s ear flat on one hand. Run the clipper gently over the back of the ear a few times, always in the same direction. Repeat for the other ear.

    • 6

      Run the clipper down the sides of each leg. Lift one leg up and trim the hair on the underbelly.

    • 7

      Switch to a smaller blade that is appropriate for your pet̵7;s face, and trim the area between your pet̵7;s eyes. Also trim the nose, sides of the face and inner edges of the ears.

    • 8

      Trim under the tail. Hold the tail up and trim around the anal area, making the hair as short as possible.