How to Shave a Furry Dog

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How to Shave a Furry Dog

Easy

15 - 30

12 Months

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Introduction

While you may not ever plan to shave your furry pup, there could come a time when it becomes unavoidable. This could be a bad flea infestation, mats that are too thick to brush out, or possibly a skin condition that must be treated. Keep in mind that shaving your pup's hair off leave his skin exposed to injury and to sunburn. Once you shave your dog, you will need to protect their skin from the sun using a vet-approved canine sunblock. Take your time and talk to your dog in a calm voice during the shaving process, this will help keep him relaxed. In turn, this will make the job easier for you.

Dog's Perspective

No matter how hard it is to take care of, your pup's coat needs constant grooming to keep the mats and tangles down to a dull roar. Your dog is going to like being "naked" as much as he likes the shaving process. Give your pup plenty of time to get used to the clippers before you start shaving, this will make him more comfortable with using them.

The Getting Ready Method

Effective

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Slicker Brush

Shampoo

Scissors

Clipper

Towel

Step

The tools you need

You will need a good set of clippers with a selection of combs, clipper oil, and a good sharp blade. Try to make sure the clippers you choose run very quietly to reduce your dog's anxiety.

Step

Getting ready

Start out by giving the dog a bath the night before you plan to shave him. This will help remove any debris, dirt, tangles, and most mats. Dry him with a towel and then let him have all night for his coat to completely dry.

Step

Secure your dog

If you are using a grooming table, use the restraint to secure your dog. If you are working on the floor, hook his leash to a table leg. You can also use a helper to hold your dog while you are shaving him.

Step

Start in private

Start by shaving his more delicate areas: his head, his ears, legs, paws, around his genitals, anus, and tail. Always shave in the same direction as the hair grows.

Step

And the rest

Shave the rest of his body starting at the neck and working your way back to the tail. Then work down the sides and finally to the belly and insides of the legs. Brush your dog down and check for any areas you missed.

The Right Clippers and Blade Method

Effective

0 Votes

Slicker Brush

Shampoo

Scissors

Clipper

Towel

Step

Set up the clippers

Start out by putting a number 10 blade that is nice and sharp in your clippers. Be sure to add a couple of drops of lubricating oil to the right spot in your clippers.

Step

Lay the blade flat

When you use the clippers, be sure the blade guide is flat on your pup's skin each time you go to cut.

Step

Take it easy

Keeping up a slow steady pace with light pressure, shave from the back of the head to the tail. Be sure you are always shaving in the direction of hair growth.

Step

Belly and paws

Have your dog lie down so that you can shave his belly and the inside of his legs.

Step

His noggin

Finish up by shaving his head, paying close attention when you are working around the eyes and ears. You should use shears to trim these areas. Finally, give your pooch a nice cool bath to soothe his irritated skin.

Caution & Considerations

Be sure the blade on your clippers is sharp to avoid jamming and ripping hair out of your dog's skin.
Use your free hand to stretch your pup's skin tight for smoother and easier shaving.
Never allow the clippers to come within less than one inch from your pup's eyes to avoid the risk of injury.
If you are not going to give your pup a bath before shaving, you should at least brush their coat to remove anything that might snag the clippers.
You should avoid using a hair dryer on your dog as the air coming out of it can be hot enough to burn their skin.

Conclusion

Keep in mind your fluffy friend is likely to be more than just a little anxious when you go to shave him. Be sure you allow him plenty of time to get used to the clippers before you start using them. This will make the whole process go better for both of you. Take your time, go slow and give your dog a chance to get used to being shaved.

How to Shave a Furry Dog

Introduction

Dog's Perspective

The Getting Ready Method

The Right Clippers and Blade Method

Caution & Considerations

Conclusion

Success Stories and Grooming Questions

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