How To Use Clippers on Dogs

Clipping your dog's hair can be better than having a stranger do it. Get your pet used to it by clipping the hair in the puppy stages if you can. It's much easier to train a young dog, even when it comes to clipping. An older dog might become frightened even if its owner is doing the clipping. Make sure you use dog clippers. Larger clippers for people will get too hot for the dog and can irritate the dog's skin. Besides, human clippers are usually too big for the dog.

Things You'll Need

  • Professional style clippers
  • Lubricant
  • Brushes
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Instructions

    • 1

      Get a good pair of professional dog clippers. There are cheaper amateur varieties, but the more expensive professional clippers have stronger blades, are durable and last longer.

    • 2

      Check with a professional dog groomer for advice on the best way to clip your dog's coat. It's also a good idea to read up on your dog's breed. A dog's coat can vary among breeds and should be cut accordingly.

    • 3

      Test the clippers if you can and make sure the sound level doesn't have a lot of buzzing, which could frighten the dog. Be sure the blades are sharp. Dull blades can pull hair and hurt the dog.

    • 4

      Plan ahead as to how you're going to clip the dog's hair. You should make sure the dog is clean. Brush out any matting or tangles in the hair for an easier clipping job.

    • 5

      Hold the clippers so they feel comfortable in your hand. This way you'll know you can handle the clipping better for a smooth cutting of your dog's hair.

    • 6

      Use a clipper lubricant or coolant spray on the blades to keep them from getting hot. During your clipping, change the blades frequently to cool off the used ones. Then switch the blades whenever you can. You can also turn off the clippers and spray the blades with a coolant if they're too hot.

    • 7

      Start clipping in an area that's not so visible if this is your first time clipping. You can judge how much hair the clippers take off. You can then adjust the blades for a better cut.