How to Clip a Maltese Puppy With Clippers

Many long-haired dogs, such as Maltese, need consistent grooming to keep their coats trimmed and healthy. This grooming includes bathing and also clipping with electric clippers. Expenses for grooming appointments can add up quickly. To combat that cost, many owners buy clippers and learn how to clip their dogs themselves. It's important to start your puppy's clipping education early and to teach her about clippers gently. To clip a Maltese puppy in a way that will teach her to accept it, follow a few easy steps.

Things You'll Need

  • Electric clippers
  • Leash
  • Brush
  • Clipper lubricant
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Instructions

  1. Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare for the clipping session. Electric clipper blades should be sharp to make cutting the hair easier. Have blades that are adequate for a Maltese's long, silky hair and the cut you want. Blades come with number assignments; the higher the number on your blades, the shorter the cut will be. For example, a blade numbered 3 will clip your puppy's hair quite short, whereas a blade numbered 6 or 7 will pass through the hair and trim just the ends.

    • 2

      Wash your Maltese puppy, and comb out his hair. Dogs should be clean and tangle-free for painless clipping. Allow the dog to dry completely.

    • 3

      Get used to your electric clippers by starting with areas on your Maltese puppy that need just a little trim, such as under the chin. Starting small will help you figure out how much hair your clippers take off with each pass. Concentrate on learning how firm to be with your clippers.

    • 4

      Trim or shave larger areas, where the Maltese's hair is thicker. Start on your puppy's back, which is less sensitive than her stomach or head. If you're just trimming the puppy's coat, run the clippers in the direction of hair growth. If you're shaving most of your puppy's hair, move against the direction of hair growth. Move the clippers in slow, steady movements straight along the dog's body or legs. Slower is safer and better when it comes to clipping.

    • 5

      Clip your puppy for 5 to 7 minutes, and then take a break. Chances are excellent that your puppy needs a break from standing still and being good, and that you need to give your clippers a moment or two to cool at this point. When you can feel that your clippers have cooled off, resume grooming your puppy.