How to Use a Trimmer on a Dog

While a professional dog groomer is always an option to get Rover and Fritz looking their best, the cost and time involved can make the regular visits a chore. Grooming at home not only saves money and time, but it allows you to spend a little more quality time with your best buddy. A quality dog clipper is a must-have for any at-home grooming kit.

Things You'll Need

  • Clippers
  • Sharp scissors
  • Grooming comb
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fit the dog clippers with a 1/2-inch comb.

    • 2

      Place your dog on a table or other solid surface where you can work around him. Detangle the coat using a comb. Cut out harder mats with a pair of sharp scissors (cut as far from the hair root as possible or you'll end up with a hole in the newly trimmed coat).

    • 3

      Trim off the bulk of the coat. Hold up your dog's head. Starting on the head, move the clippers along the grain of the hair. Put the ears flat on your hand to avoid cuts. Make slower strokes over the ears. Continue clipping the neck and shoulders.

    • 4

      Clip down the front legs. Hold one leg straight out in front and clip in a short quick motion. Be especially careful not to cut the delicate skin around the armpit or around the dewclaw.

    • 5

      Continue clipping from the front to the back of the body, down the back legs and tail.

    • 6

      Choose a shorter blade to clip the anal area and stomach.