How to Shave for a Dog Neutering

Easy
15 - 30 Minutes
1 Day

Introduction

In most cases, when you take your pup into the vet to be neutered, the vet tech or even the vet will take care of shaving the area around where the incision is to be made. At the same time, they will add the tattoo that shows others that your pooch has been "fixed." In this particular case, the area to be shaved is around the dog's penis and scrotum. The reason for this is that the vet needs to be able to create a sterile field for the incision. This means an area that is free of hair and any other type of debris. You can, of course, shave your dog yourself, but keep in mind your vet will still shave the area one more time.

Dog's Perspective

Your dog doesn't understand either being shaved or that he is being prepared for surgery. But, he does know that he likes being groomed by you and this might make him more comfortable. There really isn't a good reason why you shouldn’t take care of the shaving and make things a little easier for both of you. 

The Clean Shave Method

Effective
0 Votes
Scissors
Step
1
Create a calm environment
Start by creating a nice calm environment for your grooming session. Your pup needs to be calm and ready to trust you before you get started.
Step
2
Make sure the room is easy to clean
Choose a room with an easy to clean floor or use a grooming table for smaller breeds.
Step
3
Call your pup in the room
Call the dog into the room and have him lie down on his side or, better yet, his back if you can get him to do so.
Step
4
Shorten the hair first
Start by using a pair of shears to cut the hair in the area as short as possible without cutting his skin.
Step
5
Shave him down
Using a regular disposable razor and some shaving cream, shave the area down to the skin and wash it all clean. The vet will finish the job and then disinfect the area before completing the surgery.
Recommend grooming method?

The Electric Method

Effective
0 Votes
Scissors
Clipper
Step
1
Pull together the tools you need
For this task, you need a set of electric clippers, a disposable razor, a bowl of warm water, a washcloth, and yes, some shaving foam. You may also want a vet-approved tranquilizer if you pup likes to fidget a lot.
Step
2
Nighty night
If needed, give the tranquilizer and allow time for it to kick in and put your dog in a nice, relaxed mode. Lay him on his back and allow his hind legs to spread, giving you complete access to the area to be shaved.
Step
3
Clipper time
Break out the clippers and make sure they have a nice sharp blade on them. Use the shortest guide comb you have.
Step
4
Shave time
Shave the area down as close as you can to skin. You should use shears in close to his penis and scrotum for safety.
Step
5
Remove the stubble
Using a disposable razor and the shaving foam, go ahead and shave the area to remove stubble. Then wash him off with the warm water and washcloth.
Recommend grooming method?

Caution & Considerations

  • Be sure to only use tranquilizers prescribed by your vet and follow their instructions on its use.
  • Never use a tranquilizer intended for human use.
  • If you are not used to using a disposable razor, take your time and go very slow at first.
  • Make sure the blade in your clippers is sharp or it may tear the hair out of your pup's delicate skin, causing intense pain that might overcome the tranquilizer.
  • Remove shaving cream or foam quickly as it might cause an allergic reaction.
  • TAKE YOUR TIME! This cannot be stressed enough, the last thing you or your vet wants to happen is a cut or nick that requires treatment. 

Conclusion

In most cases, it is considered unusual for pet owners to shave their pets before surgery. Most vets have specific ways in which they prefer the area to be prepped. But, if you decide to do it yourself, be sure you remove all traces of hair in the area. Remember that even if you do an excellent job, the vet may still shave the area one more time. 

Success Stories and Grooming Questions

Grooming Questions & Answers

Question
Mochi
Scoland Terrier
1 Year
0 found helpful
Question
0 found helpful
Mochi
Scoland Terrier
1 Year

The challenge I am having is finding the correct brush to use on him. I have a detangling brush for him ... but is that enough?? Is there a brush I can use to get to the undercoat with out damaging it??

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