Giving your dog a haircut at home can be a simple and money saving option. If your dog requires a regular trim, you may want to consider using dog clippers at home. It it easy to learn how.
By visiting your local pet store, you can buy a set of clippers. You can also find resources online to buy them. The kit you choose should have several blade guards to give you the freedom to cut your pets fur to the desired length. You will also need to have use of a table that can withstand your dogs weight. A leash and collar, as well as scissors are also good items to have handy. Use a sheet or towel to catch the hair, or do it in an area that is easy to sweep.
If your dog is familiar with going to the groomer, you should have no issues at home. However, if you have to drag your terrified pet through the door for a trim, it will probably be much the same at home, and this can make it difficult for even an expert to perform a cut!
A groomer usually has a post or other place to tether the dog to the table to prevent falls and escapes. You should use your dogs leash and collar to ensure that there are no unexpected falls. Using a mat on the tabletop can help make it less slippery for your pet, and put him at ease.
Decide how short you wish to trim the fur, and select an appropriate guard for the blade. If you want it very short, you can trim with no guard on the blade. Start at the neck and work towards the back end. Go slowly with gentle pressure, and let the hair fall away. Check the blade frequently, as it can heat up with extended use and accidentally burn your pets skin. Groomers use a special blade cooling spray to use their clippers for long periods of time. Ensure you keep the blade lubricated as well. Most clipper sets come with blade oil, and refills can be purchased.
If you encounter a mat while trimming, work slowly around the edges of it. Never try to pull it off or force the trimmer under it as the skin beneath can be sensitive, causing your pet pain in the process.
When it is time to trim the legs and paws, be patient. Some dogs do not like their feet touched, and for the trimmer can tickle them. Bend the leg so that the paw is facing upwards, and go slowly, reassuring your pet as you go. If you are tempted to use scissors in this area, do so with caution.
Before you do any more, give your dog a treat, let him out into the yard for a few minutes, he will need a small break. This will also allow the clipper blade to cool down before you do the neck and face areas.
Hold your pet around the muzzle, and use gently pressure to tilt the head up. This gives you access to the neck area. Proceed slowly to finish the face, taking care around the ears and eyes. Scissors can be used if necessary, but proceed slowly and carefully.
Before long, you will be totally comfortable grooming your dog at home. With practise, it will be easier and allow you to try different techniques to achieve the look you want. Reward your dog with a new toy or treats with the money you will save doing the trimming at home.
Discover great prices on pet grooming supplies by going online. There you will find many pet clippers and other items to consider buying. Head online today and learn more. This article, How To Save Money Using Dog Clippers is released under a creative commons attribution licence.



September 2nd, 2010
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