How to Shave a Big Dog

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Medium
30 - 60 Minutes
12 Months

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Introduction

Before we go into how to shave a big dog, we need to cover one myth. Many dog owners are under the mistaken impression that shaving a large dog with long hair in the summer is a great way to help them stay cooler. The reality is that the ASPCA and most vets all agree, this is a bad idea. That thick coat of hair you are sure is making him hot is actually insulating him from the sun and summer heat. The only time you should shave your dog is when your vet recommends it or if the mats in his coat have become so severe cutting them out is not an option. 

Dog's Perspective

Your dog needs his coat to help keep him cool and to protect his skin from the sun's UV rays. Just like you, your pooch can suffer from sunburn, especially if you shave him right before summer. It can take a long time for many breeds' coats to grow back in. You may find regular brushing to be a far more effective way of helping your pup to stay cool.

The Right Stuff Method

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Shampoo
Scissors
Pin Brush
Clipper
Dryer
Towel
Step
1
Make sure you have the right stuff
You need to buy a set of clippers that are designed for use on dogs. Do NOT use clippers made for people as they will not cut a dog's coat properly. You also need to make sure you buy one that is designed to work with your pup's particular hair type.
Step
2
Getting ready to shave
Before you attempt to shave your dog, you need to give him a bath and then brush out his coat. This will help remove tangles, dirt, debris, and anything else that might cause the clippers to jam or pull on his hair painfully. Be sure to fully dry his coat before attempting to use clippers to shave it.
Step
3
You need a hand
Shaving a big dog is not really a one-person task unless he is already exceptionally calm and well behaved. You can use an assistant or a grooming table with restraints to hold him while you work.
Step
4
Go with the grain
You need to shave with the grain or in the direction your dog's hair is growing. When you rub your hand on his coat and the hair lies flat instead of rucking up, this is the right direction to shave.
Step
5
From bottom to top
Your dog is not likely to be overly patient when it comes to being shaved. Start in the more sensitive areas like his groin, under his legs, his underbelly, neck, head, face, and around the tail. Then, starting at the head and working your way back to his tail, finish shaving the rest of his body.

The Blade in Position Method

Effective
0 Votes
Scissors
Pin Brush
Clipper
Step
1
Set up the clippers
Put a sharp blade in your clippers and attach the shaving guide.
Step
2
Keep flat
Place the clippers flat on your pup's body. You can actually start the shaving process from any point, but working with the sensitive areas first will make the process go more smoothly.
Step
3
On the glide
With very little pressure, the clippers should simply glide through the coat unless they encounter a thick mat. In this case, you might need to apply more pressure or use a pair of shears to remove the mat.
Step
4
Keep the clippers cool
Clippers tend to warm up with use and the blade can get hot enough to burn your dog's skin. Be sure to take breaks and keep the blade lubricated.
Step
5
Take your time
Go slow, there is no hurry, the more time you take, the more cooperative your pup will become as he gets used to the noise of the clippers and of having his coat shaved down to the skin. If your dog's hair is super-long, you may have to cut it short first before you can shave him.

Caution & Considerations

  • Your dog's coat is not just for beauty, it is there to help him stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer. You should check with your vet before shaving him down to skin level.
  • If the clippers get hot, they can burn your pup's skin. Take frequent cooling breaks and keep the blade lubricated.
  • Do NOT try to shave your pup's hair until you have washed it to remove dirt and debris. Washing will also help remove oils that can cause the clipper to jam, ripping hair painfully out of your dog's skin.
  • Use one hand to pull the skin taut while using the other hand to shave your dog's coat. This will help to prevent nicks and cuts.
  • Keep the clippers away from your dog's eyes.
  • Do not use a hair dryer to dry your pup's coat as doing so can lead to burns on his skin. 

Conclusion

Keep in mind that if this is the first time shaving your dog, he is likely to be scared. Take your time, go slow, talk to your pup as you go, just like your barber or stylist does while you are in the chair. In time your dog will come to accept being shaved, but this doesn't mean he is ever going to like it. Finally, be sure you check with your vet to make sure shaving your big fella is not going to cause him serious injury. 

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