How to Groom a Shaggy Dog with Clippers: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 12/06/2025

Owning a shaggy dog is a rewarding experience, filled with playful antics and unconditional love. But maintaining their luscious coat can feel like a Herculean task, especially if you're considering tackling it with clippers yourself. Many pet owners are intimidated by the prospect of using clippers on their furry friends, fearing they might accidentally injure their beloved companions. However, with the right techniques and a little patience, you can achieve a professional-looking groom at home, saving money and giving you a closer bond with your pet. This isn't about transforming your dog into a perfectly coiffed show dog, but rather providing a practical guide to safely and effectively manage that thick, shaggy fur.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to clipping your shaggy dog's coat, minimizing stress for both you and your canine companion. We'll cover everything from choosing the right clippers and attachments to mastering essential techniques for a comfortable and safe grooming experience. Let's get started with our step-by-step process to a beautifully groomed shaggy dog.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Safety Guidelines
  • Always use sharp clipper blades to avoid pulling or damaging your dog's fur. Dull blades can cause overheating and discomfort.
  • Work slowly and carefully, taking breaks to avoid overheating the clippers and your dog's skin. Pay close attention to your dog's body language; stop immediately if they show signs of stress or discomfort.
  • Never clip over bony areas (like knees, elbows, or ankles) without experience, as this is very easy to injure your pet. If you're unsure, consult a professional groomer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preparation

  2. Gather Supplies

  3. Starting Position

    • Start at the back of the neck.

  4. Body Clipping

    • Be methodical and clip with the growth of the hair to avoid lines.
    • Clip the whole side, back leg, then repeat on the other side.
    • Clip the other back leg.
    • Clip the front legs.
    Clip the front legs.Clip the front legs.Clip the front legs.Clip the front legs.
    Body Clipping

  5. Belly Clipping

    • Clip the belly, going against the grain if needed for a tighter cut.
    Clip the belly, going against the grain if needed for a tighter cut.
    Belly Clipping

  6. Finishing Touches

    • Continue shaving until complete (approximately 15 minutes).
    Continue shaving until complete (approximately 15 minutes).
    Finishing Touches

Read more: Mastering Grooming Shears: Achieve a Perfect Cut Every Time

Tips

  • Hold the dog to prevent movement.
  • Don't push the clippers too fast to avoid lines.
  • If the clippers aren't picking up enough coat, back brush with the slicker brush for an even look.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Cutting Too Short

Reason: Lack of experience or using the wrong clipper guard can lead to accidentally shaving the dog's fur too short, creating bald patches or an uneven appearance.
Solution: Use the longest guard setting first and gradually work your way down to achieve the desired length, frequently checking your progress.

2. Pulling the Skin

Reason: Not holding the skin taut while clipping can result in pulling the fur and potentially cutting the skin.
Solution: Use your non-dominant hand to gently stretch the skin taut before clipping.

3. Ignoring the Undercoat

Reason: Failing to address the undercoat can lead to matting, tangles, and an uneven final look.
Solution: Use a de-shedding tool or undercoat rake before clipping to remove excess undercoat and make the clipping process smoother.

FAQs

What type of clippers should I use for my shaggy dog?
For a shaggy dog, you'll want professional-grade clippers designed for animal use. Avoid human hair clippers, as they can overheat and clog easily with thick pet fur. Look for clippers with adjustable blade lengths to customize your dog's cut. Powerful, low-vibration clippers will make the process smoother for both you and your dog.
My dog is scared of clippers. How can I make the experience less stressful?
Desensitization is key! Before using clippers, let your dog get used to the sound and feel of the clippers turned off. Reward them with treats and praise. Start by gently touching them with the clippers in a non-threatening way. Short, frequent grooming sessions are better than one long, scary one. If your dog is extremely anxious, consider consulting a professional groomer for their first clipping experience.