Is groom day coming up for your furry friend?
Dog haircuts can be time-consuming and stressful for dog owners, but they're necessary to keep your dog looking its best.
Most people either don't cut their dog's hair often enough, or they go to a cheap, unprofessional groomer who ends up making the situation worse.
But don't worry. Keep reading because we've created this guide on how to cut your dog's hair the right way so that you can save money, have peace of mind, and more importantly ensure the health of your dog.
Can You Cut Your Dogs Hair at Home?
Yes, you can cut your dog's hair at home! You'll need to gather a few supplies first. They include:
A sharp pair of scissors or clippers
A comb
Dog shampoo
A towel
Before you start cutting, it's important to brush your dog's fur to get rid of any tangles. If your dog has long fur, you may want to trim it with scissors before using clippers. When you're ready to start cutting, follow these steps:
Get Your Dog Ready for the Haircut
Hair cuts for dogs can be stressful, especially if they don't like water, so it's important to make sure your dog is as comfortable as possible. Start by tiring them out with a walk or play with them to get rid of their excess energy.
Relaxing your dog will also make trips to a professional groomer easier.
Bath and Brush Your Dog
If your dog's fur is particularly dirty or matted, you may need to bathe them before cutting its hair. Use a dog-specific shampoo to avoid irritating their skin. Once they're clean and dry, brush their fur to get rid of any knots or tangles.
How to Cut Your Dog's Hair With Clippers
If you have never used clippers on your dog before, it is best to have a professional groomer do it the first time. Once you know how to use them, you can continue cutting your dog's hair at home.
To cut your dog's hair with clippers:
Start with the right blade. For most dogs, a size 10 or 7F blade works well. If you're not sure which one to use, ask a professional groomer. Attach the blade to the clippers and turn them on.
Start by clipping the fur on your dog's back. Work your way down their sides and then clip their belly fur. Be very careful around your dog's legs and face.
How to Trim Your Dog's Hair With scissors
If you're not comfortable using clippers, you can also cut your dog's hair with scissors. This method is best for small dogs with short coats.
To cut your dog's hair with scissors:
Start by brushing your dog's fur to get rid of any knots or tangles. Trim the fur on your dog's back, sides, and belly with scissors.
Be very careful around your dog's legs and face.
Caring for Your Dog's Coat After a Haircut
Once you've finished cutting your dog's hair, it's important to care for their coat properly. This will help their fur grow back healthy and strong.
Brush your dog's fur regularly to prevent tangles and mats. Give your dog regular baths with mild shampoo to keep their skin and fur healthy. Avoid using human haircare products on your dog, as they can be irritating.
Tips for Grooming a Nervous Dog
Grooming a nervous dog can be a difficult task. But don't worry. Here are a few tips that will make the process easier for you and your furry friend:
Be Prepared
Make sure you have everything you need before you start. This includes a sharp pair of scissors or clippers, a comb, dog shampoo, and a towel.
Take Your Time
One of the most important things to remember when training your dog is to go slowly and be gentle with them. It can be easy to get impatient, especially when your dog isn't picking up a new trick as quickly as you'd like.
But it's important to remember that they're still learning and that they want to please you.
Give Your Dog Breaks
If your dog is finding it difficult to focus or seems stressed, it's a good idea to take a break and try again later. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they all have their own unique needs.
Some dogs may need more frequent breaks than others, so it's important to pay attention to your dog's body language and cues. If you're not sure whether your dog is ready for a break, err on the side of caution and take one anyway.
After all, there's no harm in taking a few minutes to rest and recharge.
Have Someone Help You
It may be helpful to have another person hold your dog while you cut their hair. This will allow you to get a better grip on their fur and prevent them from squirming away.
Additionally, having another person there will also help to keep your dog calm and relaxed. Ultimately, this will make the experience more enjoyable for both you and your dog.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Give your dog treats and praises throughout the grooming process. By rewarding your dog with treats and praise throughout the grooming process, you can help them associate grooming with something positive.
As a result, they may be more cooperative the next time they need a haircut or bath. So if you're looking for a way to make grooming easier, try using positive reinforcement. It just might be the key to a peaceful grooming session.
Want Help Cutting Your Dog's Hair?
Now that you know how to cut your dog's hair, it's time to put everything you learned into action. Every dog will have different needs, but these grooming tips are sure to help you through the process.
Are you looking for a grooming professional that can handle your dog grooming needs? At Bubbly Paws, we offer a full-service session with everything your dog may need. Book an appointment with us today!