Your dog’s hair is extremely important. It protects them from the elements and keeps them warm. However, if their fur gets too long, it can be hard for them to walk around as well as they would like, not to mention that it can make you feel uncomfortable with their whole look. That is why cutting your dog’s hair every so often is essential. Now, that may sound like a daunting prospect, but it doesn’t need to be with the help of the following guide!
Contents
- 1 Understanding The Different Types Of Dog Hair
- 2 Short-Coated
- 3 Long-Coated
- 4 Double-Coated
- 5 Wired-Haired
- 6 Curly Coated
- 7 Tips For Cutting Your Dog’s Hair
- 8 Use The Proper Tools
- 9 Give Them A Bath First
- 10 Ensure They Are Comfortable
- 11 Go In The Direction Of Hair Growth
- 12 Use Grooming Scissors In Sensitive Areas
- 13 Follow This Guide When Cutting Your Dog’s Hair!
Understanding The Different Types Of Dog Hair
Before jumping into the cutting process, it is essential to understand the different types of hair that dogs have; this will help you choose the appropriate tools and techniques. And while, like humans, no two dogs are the same, there are a few general categories of coats that most dogs fall into.
Short-Coated
The first type of coat is the short-coated breed. This refers to dogs with shorter fur that tend to shed very little, if at all. These coats are typically easy to care for and can be cut with just about any pair of dog grooming scissors or clippers. Common breeds that fall into this category include; Doberman Pinschers, German Shorthaired Pointers, Dachshunds, and American Staffordshire Terriers.
Long-Coated
The second type of coat is the long-coated breed. These dogs tend to have longer, shaggier fur and are notorious for shedding quite a bit. To keep their coats looking great, it is essential to invest in specific products designed for long-haired breeds, such as dog hair clippers and conditioners, that help promote healthy hair growth. Common breeds that fall into this category include; Afghan, Bearded Collie, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Shih Tzu.
Double-Coated
The third type of coat is the double-coated breed. These dogs typically have a thick outer layer that protects against the elements and an inner layer that helps regulate their body temperature. While these coats can be difficult to care for and maintain, with the right tools, it is possible to keep your dog looking great no matter what the weather is like. Common breeds that fall into this category include; Golden and Labrador Retrievers, German and Australian Shepherds, Pomeranians, Siberian Huskies, and Great Pyrenees.
Wired-Haired
The fourth type of coat is the wired-haired breed. These dogs tend to have coarse, bristly fur that may be difficult to cut or style. For this reason, using specific dog grooming clippers is essential when working with these types of coats. While they typically require more maintenance than other breeds, if cared for properly, they can look great! Common breeds that fall into this category include; Border Terriers, Dachshunds, Jack Russell Terriers, and Schnauzers.
Curly Coated
The final type of coat worth mentioning is the curly-coated breed. This refers to dogs with thick, often frizzy hair that can be difficult to manage. While these coats may require special tools and techniques to make them look great, they are well worth all of the extra effort! Common breeds that fall into this category include; Poodles, Bichon Frises, Irish Water Spaniels, and Curly Coated Retrievers.
Tips For Cutting Your Dog’s Hair
Once you understand the different types of dog coats, it is time to start cutting your dog’s hair. Here are a few tips and tricks that can help make the process both easier and more effective:
Use The Proper Tools
Knowing the right tools to use when cutting the fur of your beloved four-legged friend is a must. Using blunt, dull shears can do more harm than good when giving your pup an at-home grooming. It can cause tugging and pulling on their sensitive skin and leave an uneven cut that often looks raggedy. Investing in sharp, properly maintained clippers and shears can help make the job easy, ensure accuracy, reduce discomfort, and provide a polished finish to your pup’s new look.
And as previously mentioned, knowing the right tools for your dog’s coat type is a must. For example, if you have a double-coated breed, it is essential to use the right shears and blades designed to cut through thick fur.
Give Them A Bath First
One of the essential steps in grooming your dog’s fur is to bathe them before starting the haircutting. Without properly washing their fur, the excess dirt, grime, and matted fur will all get stuck in your scissors, making them dull and clunky. It’s also essential to use a shampoo specifically designed for dogs to avoid irritating their sensitive skin. Bathing your dog beforehand will also reduce how much hair falls into your home during trimming time, meaning you’ll have an easier time cleaning afterward.
Plus, with all that moisture from the bath, their coat will be much more manageable with a pair of scissors or an electric razor, making the whole process much quicker and more efficient.
Ensure They Are Comfortable
Grooming your pet can be an enjoyable and bonding experience for you and your dog; however, cutting their hair can be a bit intimidating. To ensure a safe, stress-free experience, it is vital to ensure your pup is comfortable from start to finish. For example, you may opt for a quiet location where they can feel secure and relaxed, especially if your dog is prone to anxiety or fear.
If you notice them getting restless or uneasy, take a break and give them time to adjust. Additionally, paying attention to their body language throughout the grooming process will help ensure their comfort. And, if your pup becomes anxious or scared during the process, you may want to consult a professional groomer for help or advice.
Go In The Direction Of Hair Growth
Knowing the direction of your dog’s hair growth can be key to a successful grooming experience. When cutting your canine companion’s coat, it’s best to stick with going in the direction of the growth. This simple rule-of-thumb helps create a fuller, more natural look while cutting down grooming time.
It’s also easier on your pup—they may even become calmer and more compliant when grooming this way! Starting by running a hand through their fur will familiarize you with their growth pattern and ensure that when it comes time to give them a trim, you have an idea of where to begin.
Use Grooming Scissors In Sensitive Areas
For sensitive areas on your pup, such as their face, feet, or tail, clipping or cutting with scissors is preferred over electric clippers. Smaller and more precise than typical clippers, grooming scissors are designed around delicate body parts to provide a smooth and even trim. These tools are typically smaller and easier to control than larger clipper blades, giving you more accuracy when styling your dog’s fur.
And when compared to a dull shave from improper razor blades or clippers that could result in painful cuts and tears on the coat, scissors offer much more safety for your pet. If you take the time to research and properly train yourself on how to use them correctly, grooming scissors can be a safe and effective way of keeping your canine friend’s awesome look!
Follow This Guide When Cutting Your Dog’s Hair!
Whatever dog breed you have, it is vital to properly groom and care for their fur. And by following these simple tips, you can easily get started cutting your dog’s hair and achieve a smooth and even trim. With time and practice, you’ll gain confidence in your skills and be able to give your pup a beautiful new haircut that they’ll love! And if you feel a bit nervous about doing it for the first time, remember to take things slow and be patient.
