I learned to use the grooming clippers

**NewLeaf** · 04-11-2010, 06:42 PM

I have always been terrified to use grooming clippers because I was afraid I would cut or hurt my dogs. I used to have Springer Spaniels who I had to take to a groomer. That got really expensive after awhile.

When I got Bella, the cocker spaniel, I knew I would have to go a frugaler route. Grooming costs $45 each time......

So I got an inexpensive set of clippers with a grooming DVD. They are wahl clippers and cost $40. All of the internet cocker spaniel sites I went to said not to get the cheap ones , but I couldn't afford the $150 clippers right now. This way I can learn how to use them and see if I am going to be able to do a decent job and stick with it.

I tried them out today and I think I did a fine job. I gave Bella cocker "pet" cut. I got everything cut except the legs. I think I will have to scissor them. She looks wonderful.

**YankeeMom** · 04-11-2010, 06:45 PM

Walmart has been having the electric pet clippers on clearance lately. At least here they are. We got the small set, for doing feet, for $9. My little shelties get huge tufts of fur between their toes. It's hilarious to see, but uncomfortable for them.

**ladytoysdream** · 04-11-2010, 07:47 PM

We bought some cheap clippers and they did not work on our cocker spaniels. We finally bought the WAHL clippers for about $ 140 a few years ago. I buy the new blades at $ 20 a set, and we get both dogs done on one set of fresh blades. The blonde one has finer hair and white one has course hair. We could not afford to have a groomer do them.

And then the hubby uses the same clippers to do his hair cuts

**Ceashels** · 04-11-2010, 09:19 PM

We were thinking of shaving Cleo since her fur is so thick and curly. I think she would tolerate it OK but I'm a little apprehensive.

**Palooka** · 04-12-2010, 12:28 AM

Originally Posted by ladytoysdream

We bought some cheap clippers and they did not work on our cocker spaniels. We finally bought the WAHL clippers for about $ 140 a few years ago. I buy the new blades at $ 20 a set, and we get both dogs done on one set of fresh blades. The blonde one has finer hair and white one has course hair. We could not afford to have a groomer do them.

And then the hubby uses the same clippers to do his hair cuts

Heh, I used the same WHAL clippers to groom my old Bichon years ago and the same ones for the dh.

NL, good thinking.

**frugalfranny** · 04-12-2010, 01:36 AM

Originally Posted by Ceashels

We were thinking of shaving Cleo since her fur is so thick and curly. I think she would tolerate it OK but I'm a little apprehensive.

Don't know what Cleo is but you might have to watch for sunburn.

My little boy has less hair than Muff and I give them the 1/4 inch cut for summer but have to watch him for sunburn........light skin and not real thick fur.

I have to scissor cut both of mine first or the clippers won't go through the hair.........then I put the blade that I want the actual length to be and go over them to get it even. Use 1/2 inch in winter and 1/4 inch in summer.

**Ceashels** · 04-12-2010, 07:39 AM

Cleo is NOT the dog in the current avatar. LOL.

Frugalfanny, Thanks for the sunburn tip. I've seen other Shelties clipped down to an inch and they look good. I think using scissors to clip her first may help in our attempt at grooming her, though I am considering having her done professionally the first time so I can watch and take notes. I don't know how often she would need to be clipped before her fur grows back but I want her to be comfortable during the summer.

**NewLeaf** · 04-12-2010, 08:27 AM

I still haven't clipped Bella's legs yet. Should I scissor them? How long should the legs and skirt be in the summer?

**Pemberleyan** · 04-12-2010, 11:06 AM

Good for you! It's so nice to be able to do the grooming at home. I started doing my own grooming in about 1989. It was such a hassle to drive the distance I had to drive, leave the pets all day, and then go back to pick them up. At that time I went through a couple of the less expensive pet clippers, but couldn't get the job done on my poodles and bought a set of Oster Golden A-5's. If you ever decide to purchase a heavy duty pair, check out Discount Pet Supplies, Pet Supply, Online Pet Supplies (no affiliation) for clippers and supplies. I've been pleased with their prices and quick shipping.

**NewLeaf** · 04-12-2010, 11:10 AM

Thanks Pemberleyan, If I can do a good job I will continue to groom Bella myself. Like you said , its much less of a hassel. And it's easier on her nerves too.

**YankeeMom** · 04-12-2010, 01:09 PM

Originally Posted by Ceashels

Cleo is NOT the dog in the current avatar. LOL.

Frugalfanny, Thanks for the sunburn tip. I've seen other Shelties clipped down to an inch and they look good. I think using scissors to clip her first may help in our attempt at grooming her, though I am considering having her done professionally the first time so I can watch and take notes. I don't know how often she would need to be clipped before her fur grows back but I want her to be comfortable during the summer.

Our Macy was the same way. REALLY thick fur...especially the white ruff in the front. We were tempted to get her shaved down, but never did do it (going to the groomers always stressed her big time). If you do, could you post pictures?