The higher the number, the shorter the hair will be when clipped. In the pet grooming industry, clipper blades are numbered to denote size. Both clippers typically come with a number 10 blade to get you started. Groomers rely on clippers such as the Andis AGC2 or the Wahl KM10.

Professional groomers know how to choose the best dog clippers-and a quality clipper, properly maintained, should give you reliable service for many years. If you decide learning how to trim dog hair yourself is something you want to try, consider investing in professional quality tools. This phenomenon is called “post clipping alopecia.” Choosing Clippers for Your Dog It is not unusual for normal hair growth patterns in these dogs to be disrupted if they are clipped, especially if the hair is clipped short.

It is not recommended that dogs with thick, double coats, such as Pomeranians, Huskies, Chows and similar types, have their hair clipped. Using a clipper to give the dog a haircut keeps them tidy and reduces the chances of long hair becoming tangled. The dogs that need regular haircuts include breeds that have long hair, such as Poodles, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, as well as sporting breeds, such as spaniels. But for those who do, it is recommended that their hair is cut every four to eight weeks. Luckily with professional guidance (I have 36 years of experience as a pet groomer) and the right tools, it can be possible to groom your own dog with clippers at home. Though it is recommended that clipping your dog’s fur is left to professional groomers, sometimes circumstances may convince you to tackle the task yourself. Even before social distancing made trips to the vet more difficult, many dog owners with long-haired pups wondered, “Can I start grooming my dog with clippers at home?”

Andis clipper blade size guide