For dog parents of longer-haired pups, grooming is a big deal. Keeping your furbaby looking his best can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to break the bank.
If you’re contemplating grooming your pooch at home, you’ll need a quality set of clippers. But how do you know what you should look for in grooming tools?
After evaluating more than 30 grooming clippers for dogs, we chose the “HOLDOG Professional Heavy Duty Dog Grooming Clipper 3-Speed” as our favorite because featuring 33 teeth, the blade cuts smoothly with less risk of clogging or snagging.
But I understand you might have different needs, whether you’re looking for a quiet grooming clipper so your dog won’t panic or a clipper for a matted coat. That is why I prepared a shortlist of our top favorite grooming clippers for dogs that address different needs.
In the review section below, we’ll look at what you need to know before you clip your dog, offer you some helpful veterinary grooming tips, and discuss rules of thumb when buying clippers.
Then we’ll go over my top dog clipper picks by category and answer some common questions from dog parents.
Things You Need to Know Before Clipping Your Dog
When you have a furbaby with long or continuously growing hair, it’s important to keep them well-groomed. But the task is a little more complex than shaving off the fur. When and how should you clip your pup’s hair, and does the technique change with different coat types? Let’s take a look.
Don’t Use Human Clippers On Your Dog
Aside from the fact that you should use a separate set of clippers on Fido than you use on yourself, there are valid reasons to choose dog-specific clippers.
- Pet clippers usually have quieter motors than human clippers, so they’re less likely to upset your dog.
- The blade speed of pet clippers is faster and may have two speeds. Having more strokes per minute helps the blade cut through thick fur without jamming.
- Dog clippers can come in two different blade styles:
- Fine-tooth blades help give a smooth finish.
- Skip-tooth blades have gaps that are useful for thick coats and mats.
- The blade numbers are different for pet clippers than for human clippers.
- Grooming combs that fit over the blades are longer for pet clippers.
One final note: it’s important to remember that dog skin is more delicate and sensitive than our skin. So it’s important to use clippers that will be gentle to minimize the risk of injury.
Do Not Shave Dogs With Double Coats
Many times, owners try to trim their double-coated dogs to decrease shedding or to help their pups stay cool in hot weather. Unfortunately, shaving your thick-haired pooch to the skin has the opposite effects.
The soft undercoat helps to protect your pal from harsh weather conditions, so it keeps him cooler in the heat and warmer in the cold. Depending on when you shave your pup, you may damage the hair follicles of the undercoat or the topcoat:
- Topcoat – When you remove the topcoat, it may grow back more coarse. And it takes time for these outer hairs to grow, so the undercoat is left unprotected. Exposure to the elements can turn the once soft hairs more brittle and unable to offer the same protection.
- Undercoat – If you interfere with the undercoat during a growth phase, the once soft hair is likely to grow back coarser, like the topcoat. Additionally, shaving the coat can leave your pal vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer because the insulating layer is gone.
If you believe your double-coated dog will shed less if you shave him down, think again. It won’t eliminate shedding. The hair will just be shorter. Your pup will still have seasonal shedding.
In short, shaving a dog with a double coat will not accomplish your goals. And once you make the cut, there’s probably no turning back.
If you’re not sure if your pup has a double coat, how can you tell? Dogs with a double coat have two layers of hair. The topcoat is coarser, will be medium to long in length, and grows slower than the undercoat. Underneath is a soft layer of fine hairs that help to insulate and protect your pup. Examples of dog breeds with double coats include:
- Herding dogs like German Shepherds, Australian Shepherds, Corgis, and Sheepdogs
- Working dogs like Bernese Mountain Dogs, Great Pyrenees, and Newfoundland
- Sporting dogs like Labrador Retrievers, spaniels, and golden retrievers
- Some terrier and toy dogs like Tibetan terriers, Wheaten terriers, and Pomeranians
- Spitz-type dogs like Siberian huskies, American Eskimos, and Samoyeds
Check with your veterinarian if you’re not certain whether your pooch has a double coat.
What about Single-Coated Dogs?
You can shave dogs with a single coat, particularly if their hair is long. It may help prevent tangling and matting. However, we recommend you don’t shave to the skin. It’s always best to leave about an inch of length to protect your pup from the sun and flying insects. The layer will also provide insulation.
Single-coated dogs include Poodles, Boxers, Maltese, and Afghan hounds. When pups have a single hair layer, there is no undercoat. The coat length can be short or long, wavy or wiry, but all the hairs will be the same length.
Should You Shave Your Pet for the Summer?
Humans shed layers of clothing when the temperature rises, what about dogs? You may wonder if shaving your furbaby will keep him cooler in the “dog days” of summer. It may help some pups with long, thick coats to shave off their excess fur.
If you choose to shave your furbaby, consider these helpful tips:
- Hire a professional groomer. Particularly if your pooch is jumpy or nervous, leave the clipping to a trained individual. The cost of the haircut is worth it to avoid the risk of an injury from the clipper blades.
- Stay cool. Check the clippers regularly and take breaks to keep the blades cool. Use lubricant if you got some with the clippers. Hot clippers can cause skin burns.
- Don’t shave to the skin. No matter what type of coat your dog has, you should leave an inch or more of fur when you trim him. This layer will help to protect your pup from the sun and give him some insulation. And a close shave can impact how the hair grows back, potentially leading to irregular growth and skin issues.
How Can You Use Clippers to Shave Your Dog at Home?
If you’re cost-conscious, you may want to try to groom your pal at home. While shaving Fido isn’t as simple as picking up the clippers and getting started, it is something you can learn to do by following some pointers:
- Start with a bath and brush-out. Clean, brushed hair is easier to cut, and it may help work out tangles before you start clipping.
- Have the right equipment handy. Before you start the task, gather your tools. That way you won’t risk making your pooch more nervous by pausing to get a needed item. Professional groomers rely on hair clippers, a comb, a slicker brush, and nail trimmers.
- Keep it quiet. Loud buzzing can add to an already stressful situation. Before you buy a set of clippers, make sure they’re quiet. Once you get started, make every effort to prevent distractions. Find a quiet, isolated area to groom your dog.
- Take your time. It’s better to go slow. Pushing the clippers can leave lines and make the trim sloppy.
- Use sharp blades. Dull blades are more likely to grab and pull the hair. Sharp clippers will also make it easier to trim around the head and ears.
- Go with the grain. You want to cut the hair in the direction that the hair grows. This will require your attention because a dog’s coat grows in different directions at different parts of the body. Following the grain will help ensure a smooth cut and allow you to make sure the length matches other shaved areas.
- Understand your pooch’s coat. Different coat types call for different clipper blades and approaches. Do your research before the first shave. You may want to visit or consult with a professional groomer for tips about how to trim your dog’s hair.
- Know the breed standard. If you want your pooch to resemble its breed, check out a breed club website. At the least, you’ll be able to see an image of the final product. Some pages also offer grooming tips that are specific to the breed.
- Start when your dog is young. It can be harder to teach an old dog new tricks. If you want to clip your pup at home, start when they’re a puppy. They’ll be more likely to become accustomed to the routine, and you may have more success training them to stand quietly.
- Keep the clippers cool. We mentioned above that hot blades can burn your dog’s skin. Check the clippers frequently to make sure they stay cool. If the blades start to heat up, you can spray on a clipper lubricant or coolant, switch out the blades, or put the heated blade on a cool metal object such as a cookie sheet to absorb the heat.
How Do You Shave a Dog With Matted Hair?
Sometimes long-haired dogs can get mats in their fur. Whenever possible, your best option is to gently comb the tangles out. Unfortunately, sometimes matting is so severe, your only resort is to shave the mat or your dog, If you need to shave your pooch to eliminate mats, follow these steps:
- Before you start, you may want to get pointers from a local professional groomer. Learning how to approach your pooch can help you remain calm and help avoid freaking out your furbaby.
- Secure your dog. For smaller pups, you should use a table. Hold their collar or tie them to a chair with a leash to keep them secure. Get a family member or friend to help you if you think your dog will be too squirmy for you.
- Start with the head. Use a number 10 blade and trim carefully in the direction of growth. Stay at least one inch from the eyes.
- Shave under the arms and the tail next. Use the same blade, and hold it flat against the skin as you go.
- Next, shave your dog’s back. Move from head to tail. If the mats are thick and close to the skin, you’ll probably need the same blade. For looser mats, you can change out for the next size up to allow some hair length on the body.
- Clip the sides and down the legs after the back. Check the clipper blades to make sure they’re not getting hot. Depending on how bad the matting is, the fur may come off in clumps or as one piece.
- Finish with the belly area.
- After you’re done shaving, rinse your pup with a cool bath to remove any loose hair and help soothe itchy skin. Try to prevent your dog from scratching so that he doesn’t develop any hot spots.
13 Rules of Thumb When Buying Dog Grooming Clippers
There are several brands and types of dog clippers on the market. How can you know which one is right for your pooch? Let’s look at some rules of thumb to help you make your selection.
- Speed – Clippers have rotary motors to move the blades back and forth. In most cases, a motor with more strokes per minute(faster speed) is more desirable because they tend to have a higher quality and longer battery life. Cordless clippers are usually slower than those with cords, but they’re also less bulky. Depending on your clipper, the motor may be single or variable speed.
- Single Speed – Single-speed clippers tend to have a slower motor than variable speed clippers. However, they’re easier for novices because you’re less likely to make big mistakes, and they don’t overheat as readily as variable speed clippers.
- Variable Speed – Variable speed clippers generally have two to three-speed settings. Groomers use different settings on different coat lengths and styles. They can also be useful at home if you have multiple breeds or if you want to try an advanced hairstyle.
- Oil Required – Many of the basic clippers used at home require occasional maintenance. The upkeep includes dismantling the clippers to oil the inside parts of the machine. If the clippers call for oiling, make sure the blades are easy to remove and put back on.
- Blade Material – The main types of blades for pet clippers are ceramic or steel. Carbon steel is the best choice because it’s more durable. If you’re budget conscious, stainless steel is a viable alternative.
- Attachment Combs vs Blades – Depending on the clippers, some will have detachable blades that you can change out with other blades to adjust the length of the cut. Basic clippers may come with a single blade while professional sets often have an assortment. Dog clipper blades are generally size 10, 15, or 30 (30 is a closer shave than 10). A 10 blade will work for most home grooming tasks. We recommend detachable blade clippers for novice at-home groomers.
Your basic set may come with one or more guide combs that attach to the blade. These can be plastic or stainless steel and snap-on or have a spring attachment. Guide combs also help you to adjust the length of the cut. Combs only work on detachable blades.
The other type of clipper blade is an adjustable blade. This system features a slide or lever that allows you to adjust the blade length for clipping. Attachment combs will not work with adjustable blades.
- Corded vs Cordless Clippers – There are pros and cons to both styles. Corded clippers tend to have faster motors, but they’re also bulky and may be difficult for inexperienced groomers to maneuver. With a corded machine, you won’t have to worry about running out of battery power when doing a full groom or if you’re shaving more than one dog. On the other hand, you can trim your dog anywhere with cordless clippers, but you’ll have to set up near an outlet for corded clippers.
- Battery Life – You don’t want your clippers to run out of juice halfway through the job. If you’re using a cordless trimmer, check the battery life. A full-scale groom job may take an hour or more depending on your dog’s coat and size. A bonus would be a battery meter on the clippers that notifies you about how much power is left.
- Motor Power – You’ll want a strong, fast motor particularly if you have a dog with thick or coarse hair. The best way to determine the power is by checking the equipment’s revolutions per minute (RPMs). Professionals use high RPM models, but if you’re new to grooming, start with lower RPMs. The faster motors will cut hair faster, and it’s easier to make mistakes.
- Weight and Size – These are ergonomic features that help you. Cordless clippers are usually lighter and less bulky. They’re easier for the occasional groomer to use, and they’re a better fit for smaller hands or people with arthritis. If you have a chance to try the clippers before buying, check to see how it feels in your hand. It should be heavy enough for good control without tiring your arm.
- Noise and Vibration – Vibrations are related to the RPMs but also related to the clipper construction. Many professional models have dampers and ergonomic grips to help the hand tolerate extended use. Look for similar features in basic models that compensate for RPMs and vibrations.
Some dogs are more nervous around noisy clippers. Look for trimmers that have a quiet motor. This can help minimize distractions and prevent accidents or injuries.
- Heat – Many basic clippers have built-in fans or air vents to help keep the equipment cool. The problem is that they can become clogged with hair during grooming. Look for products that are less likely to clog and have a cool running system.
- Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance – Professional grade clippers require minimal maintenance, but most basic sets call for occasional oiling. You’ll have to dismantle the blades to get to the inside parts. Choose clippers with blades that are easy to remove and put on.
- Warranty – Before you purchase a set of clippers, check for a warranty. You want to know what the manufacturer covers and how long the warranty lasts.
- Made in the USA – When you purchase clippers for your dog, you want to know that they were manufactured under strict quality and safety standards. Check the package to make sure the product was made in the USA.
Our 2024 Top Best 14 Grooming Clippers
After reviewing more than 30 grooming clippers for dogs using the criteria mentioned above, we chose 14 that we think are the safest & best for your dog:
HOLDOG Heavy Duty Dog Grooming Clipper 3-Speed
- Blade Material: titanium fixed blade; ceramic moving blade
- Speed (SPM): 55-65 RPM
- Clipper Type: cordless
- Battery Life: 3-4 hours
- Motor’s Power: 2200 mAh Li-ion battery
- Warranty: 1 year
- Oil Included: yes
- Best for: Our Top Pick Overall
With a detachable and durable titanium-ceramic blade, this product from HOLDOG is made to handle heavy-duty jobs on thick coats. Featuring 33 teeth, the blade cuts smoothly with less risk of clogging or snagging.
This trimmer has 3 speeds so that you can adjust your machine for different parts of the body. There are four guard combs and five precision settings to tailor the length to suit your grooming needs.
Featuring low vibrations and noise, the clippers should not increase your pup’s nerves. The package includes oil, a cleaning brush, scissors, guard combs, and a stainless steel comb.
What We Like
- They cut smoothly through thick hair and double coats
- It’s easy to use and maneuver
- It cuts quickly and minimizes the time you need to clip your dog
- They come with instructions
What Dogs Love About It
- It’s quiet and won’t upset your pup
- The blades are gentle and safe
What We Don’t Like
- The attachment comb can snag on hair
- The instructions are confusing
oneisall Dog Quiet Cordless Clipper
- Blade Material: stainless steel fixed, ceramic moving
- Speed (SPM): 5,000 RPM
- Clipper Type: Cordless
- Battery Life: 80 minutes
- Motor’s Power: Li-ion battery
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
- Oil Included: Yes
- Best for: affordable dog grooming clippers
This rechargeable clipper offers the best of both worlds. It’s completely portable and holds a charge for about 80 minutes. But you can also use it while plugged in and charging so that you don’t have to stop halfway through a grooming job.
With 5,000 rpm, this machine has a higher speed that helps you cut through thick hair smoothly. The 50-60 Hz motor is designed for minimal vibration and ultra-quiet performance to help keep your pooch calm.
Featuring a stainless steel fixed blade and a ceramic moving blade, this clipper should stay sharp for a long time. The set comes with six guard combs ranging from 3 mm to 18 mm, grooming scissors, a comb, a cleaning brush, oil, and a charging cord.
What We Like
- It’s easy to hold and maneuver
- It has a long working time
- You can use it while it’s plugged in
- The attachment combs are easy to clip on and remove
What Dogs Love About It
- It’s super quiet
- It cuts through matted hair quickly
What We Don’t Like
- The batteries don’t always hold a charge
- The blade can clog with hair with some breeds/coats
Wahl Professional Animal Motion Cordless Clipper Kit
- Blade Material: high-grade steel
- Speed (SPM): 5,500 RPM
- Clipper Type: Corded or cordless
- Battery Life: 90 min
- Motor’s Power: 110 Watts
- Warranty: 1 year
- Oil Included: Yes
- Best for: Noise-Sensitive Dogs
This variable-blade length clipper offers corded or cordless options depending on your needs. Charge the Li-ion battery and use it cord-free for shorter grooming jobs or touch-up work. When you need uninterrupted power for a few hours, attach the cord and go to work.
The 5-in-1 steel blade technology allows you to adjust the cut length without switching blades. You can easily transition from a #9 to a #40. Featuring an attachable finger grip, this product provides stability and control.
You can use this on all types of coats. The package includes the trimmer, charging cord and stand, 5-in-1 blade, storage case, 6 attachable combs, cleaning brush, oil, and owner’s manual.
What We Like
- It’s lightweight and easy to use
- The ergonomic handle is easy to hold and maneuver
- The finger grip helps prevent you from dropping the trimmers
- It’s easy to adjust the blade length for different areas of the body
What Dogs Love About It
- It’s ultra-quiet
- The blades stay cool
What We Don’t Like
- Sometimes the clipper won’t always turn off so you have to drain the battery each time
- The blades can jam up and catch on some types of hair
Oster A5 Two Speed Clipper with Detachable Cryogen-X #10 Blade
- Blade Material: Cryogen X
- Speed (SPM): 3,000 and 4,000 RPM
- Clipper Type: Corded
- Battery Life: NA
- Motor’s Power: 45 Watts
- Warranty: 1 year
- Oil Included: Yes
- Best for: Thick Coats and Matted Hair
Featuring a two-speed motor, these clippers from Oster come with #10 Cryogen X blades. It’s designed to groom cats, dogs, and livestock. The power cord is 10 feet to allow you room to move.
The product has detachable blades that are easy to switch when you’re changing between coat types or parts of the body. With a heavy-duty, universal motor, you can change between 3,000 rpm and 4,000 rpm depending on your precision needs.
With a quiet motor and low vibrations, this equipment should be easy for you to manage while you’re grooming your dog. It comes with a #10 blade, blade oil, clipper grease, cleaning brush, and replacement brushes.
What We Like
- It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver
- The cord is long enough to let you move around your dog
- The blades are durable
- It’s easy to take apart and clean
What Dogs Love About It
- It’s quiet
- It cuts through thick or matted hair smoothly and easily
What We Don’t Like
- The clippers tend to heat up quickly
- The blade tends to rattle
Ruri’s Store Dog Grooming Clippers for Trimming The Hair Around Paws
- Blade Material: carbon steel
- Speed (SPM): not listed
- Clipper Type: cordless
- Battery Life: short
- Motor’s Power: AA battery
- Warranty: 3 months
- Oil Included: No
- Best for: Dog Grooming Clippers for Trimming Sensitive Areas
This narrow-blade clipper is designed to gently trim around the face, paws, and other sensitive areas. The removable carbon steel head is durable and easy to remove for cleaning.
Powered by an AA battery, you’ll have the freedom to move around your pooch while you groom. The motor is made to be whisper quiet to prevent scaring your furbaby.
With a lightweight and ergonomic design, this trimmer is easy to maneuver for a precise trim. Batteries are not included.
What We Like
- It’s great for paws
- It’s ergonomic and comfortable
- It’s easy to use and maneuver
- It’s a great value for the money
What Dogs Love About It
- It makes sensitive shaving easy
- It’s quiet and won’t scare your pup
What We Don’t Like
- It drains the battery quickly
- It’s not rechargeable
Andis 22340 ProClip 2-Speed Detachable Blade Clipper
- Blade Material: stainless steel
- Speed (SPM): 2,700 and 3,400 RPM
- Clipper Type: corded
- Battery Life: NA
- Motor’s Power: 20 watts
- Warranty: 1 year
- Oil Included: Yes
- Best for: Multiple Speed Clippers
Featuring a two-speed motor and detachable stainless steel blade, this clipper from Andis is suitable for all breeds and coat types. The heavy-duty cord is 14 feet long to allow you to move freely around your furbaby.
The detachable blades are designed to come out easily for cleaning. You can also change quickly to another size for different length cuts.
The machine is in shatterproof housing and features a rotary motor. A tube of oil is included with your purchase.
What We Like
- It’s easy to clean
- The blades are easy to switch out
- It’s easy to maneuver
- It’s low vibration
What Dogs Love About It
- It’s quiet
- The motor and blade stay cool
What We Don’t Like
- The clippers can get stuck and pull on the hair
- They don’t last very long
Pet Union Professional Dog Grooming Kit
- Blade Material: titanium fixed blade, ceramic moving blade
- Speed (SPM): not listed
- Clipper Type: cordless
- Battery Life: 1-hour minimum
- Motor’s Power: Standard AC adaptor
- Warranty: lifetime
- Oil Included: Yes
- Best for: Beginners
This all-in-one kit from Pet Union provides you with all the tools you need to groom your pup. It features a cordless clipper with an adjustable blade and four-guard combs. The rechargeable battery holds sufficient charge for full grooming.
Durable titanium and ceramic blades stay sharp for a smooth and precise cut. You can readily adjust the blade length on the trimmer and add guard combs to tailor the length of your cut.
Move around your pooch and trim hard-to-reach areas with the maneuverable machine. The package includes the clippers, a cleaning brush, an AC adaptor, guard combs (4), two grooming scissors, a stainless steel comb, nail clippers, a nail file, and oil.
What We Like
- It’s easy to hold and maneuver
- The blades are sharp and cut well
- The kit comes with everything you need
- It comes with a lifetime warranty
What Dogs Love About It
- They’re super quiet
- They work well on small and medium dogs
What We Don’t Like
- The blades tend to glide over fine hair without cutting it
- The plastic guide combs can break easily
Oster Clipmaster Grooming Clipping Machine
- Blade Material: titanium
- Speed (SPM): 3,000 RPM
- Clipper Type: Corded
- Battery Life: NA
- Motor’s Power: 150 Watts
- Warranty: 1 year
- Oil Included: Yes
- Best for: Professional Clipper
Made for large animals and large-breed dogs, this professional clipper from Oster features a single-speed 60 Hz motor and durable titanium blades. This is a low-maintenance machine that only requires oiling about every 100 hours.
With an included #10 blade, this clipper is useful for full-body grooming and precision touch-ups. Because it’s a corded trimmer, you won’t have to worry about running out of power before your grooming job is complete.
The package includes a case, removable storage tray, blade compartments, extra intake screen, brush, and grease. It’s a low-noise machine so it shouldn’t scare your pup. These clippers come in different color options.
What We Like
- It’s easy to hold and maneuver
- You won’t run out of power mid-grooming
- It’s easy to change out blades for different jobs
- It makes cutting thick fur much easier
What Dogs Love About It
- It doesn’t make loud noises
- It has vents to prevent overheating
What We Don’t Like
- Guard combs aren’t included
- The plastic body can crack
Wahl Lithium Ion Pro Series for Small & Large Breeds with Thick to Heavy Coats
- Blade Material: high carbon steel
- Speed (SPM): 5,500 RPM
- Clipper Type: cordless
- Battery Life: 2 hours
- Motor’s Power: Li-ion battery
- Warranty: 5 year
- Oil Included: Yes
- Best for: Cordless Clippers for dogs
Designed for thick and heavy coats, this set of clippers from Wahl features self-sharpening blades. The high-carbon steel is self-sharpening and made to resist snags. You can use the equipment for precision cuts and full-body trims.
With a heavy-duty motor and rechargeable Li-ion battery, you can use this portable trimmer for up to two hours before losing power. It has a 15 minute charge time so that you’re ready to go again in a short time.
Made to be quiet, this equipment is good for at-home use. The kit includes a grooming comb, scissors, colored attachable guide combs, charger, oil, and a cleaning brush.
What We Like
- It holds a charge for a long time
- It’s easy to hold and use
- It works well for touch-ups
- It’s portable, and there’s no cord to make your dog nervous
What Dogs Love About It
- The guard prevents skin nicks
- It cuts through thick poodle hair easily
What We Don’t Like
- It’s noisy
- The clipper blades can get hot
Wahl Professional Deluxe U-Clip Pet Grooming Kit
- Blade Material: high-grade steel
- Speed (SPM): 7,200 RPM
- Clipper Type: corded
- Battery Life: NA
- Motor’s Power: 10 watts
- Warranty: 2 year
- Oil Included: Yes
- Best for: Yorkies
This at-home clipper from Wahl features a #30-15-10 standard adjustable blade. You can adjust the length of the cut with the blades and attachable blade guards to get the desired results.
With an 8-foot cord, you should have room to freely move around your furbaby. The package includes clippers, an adjustable blade, 7 color-coded attachment combs, stainless steel scissors, a styling comb, an apron, a blade guard, a cleaning brush, oil, and a how-to DVD.
What We Like
- It’s lightweight
- It’s easy to grip and use
- It’s a good value for the money
- The cord is long enough to work around your pup
What Dogs Love About It
- It’s fast and makes grooming time shorter
- It comes with guide combs to protect the skin
What We Don’t Like
- The blades tend to get hot after a while
- It makes too much noise
Oster Golden A5 Two-Speed Clippers with Detachable CryogenX Size 10 Blade
- Blade Material: Cryogen X
- Speed (SPM): 2,100 and 2,700 RPM
- Clipper Type: Corded
- Battery Life: NA
- Motor’s Power: 45 Watts
- Warranty: 1 year
- Oil Included: Yes
- Best for: Poodles and Toy Poodles
These clippers from Oster come with a #10 Cryogen X blade that’s designed to last. You can adjust the motor to a lower speed for fine trimming around the face and use the higher speed for full-body grooming and mat removal.
With durable cryogen X blades, this product should last a long time. The 12-foot cord means you won’t run out of juice before your task is completed.
The package includes clippers, blade oil, blade guard, clipper grease, brush, and an extra spring assembly.
What We Like
- It’s lightweight and easy to use
- It’s a good value for the money
- The cord is a convenient length for moving around your dog
- It works great on matted hair
What Dogs Love About It
- Blades stay cool for a long time – it’s vented
- It works quickly to minimize grooming time
What We Don’t Like
- The blade can loosen and vibrate over time
- The motor doesn’t last long on some machines
Andis Excel Pro-Animal 5-Speed Detachable Blade Clipper
- Blade Material: ceramic edge
- Speed (SPM): 5-speed, 4,500 max RPM
- Clipper Type: corded
- Battery Life: NA
- Motor’s Power: 20 Watts
- Warranty: 1 year
- Oil Included: Yes
- Best for: Heavy-Duty Clippers
Featuring a ceramic edge blade and 5-speed motor, this clipper from Andis is made for all dog breeds and coat styles. The #10 blade is detachable and interchangeable with other Andis blades.
With five speeds, you can tailor your clippers to the job. Go slower for fine details and face clipping, then use the high speed to shave the body. The body is a contoured polymer with an anti-slip grip for easy handling.
The ceramic blade tends to run cooler than steel blades, so there’s less risk of burning your pooch. The product comes with a # 10 blade and oil.
What We Like
- The ergonomic shape makes it easy to hold
- It’s light and easy to maneuver
- It cuts thick coats easily
- The different speed settings make it easier to trim different parts of the body
What Dogs Love About It
- It’s fairly quiet
- It stays cool
What We Don’t Like
- The buttons are in an awkward spot
- The cord is cumbersome and the plug is huge
Andis UltraEdge Super 2-Speed Detachable Blade Clipper
- Blade Material: stainless steel
- Speed (SPM): 3,400 and 4,400 RPM
- Clipper Type: corded
- Battery Life: NA
- Motor’s Power: 20 Watts
- Warranty: 1 year
- Oil Included: Yes
- Best for: Small and Toy Breeds
With two speeds, this two-speed clipper from Andis is designed for all dog breeds and coat types. Adjust the rotary motor between 3,400 and 4.400 RPMs to suit your grooming needs.
This machine has durable interchangeable stainless steel blades with a chrome finish to provide a smooth cut and easy cleaning. It comes with a standard #10 blade.
You won’t have to worry about losing power with the 14-foot cord that’s long enough for you to easily work around your pooch. The motor is quiet, so it shouldn’t scare your furbaby.
What We Like
- It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver
- It’s easy to use
- It works well on heavy coats
- The slower speed comes in handy when trimming more sensitive areas and around joints
What Dogs Love About It
- The clippers are fairly quiet
- It cuts fast and will help cut down the grooming time
What We Don’t Like
- The blade tends to get hot
- The motor gets noisier after several uses
HANSPROU High Power Dog Clipper
- Blade Material: titanium alloy stationary blade; ceramic moving blade
- Speed (SPM): 7,000 RPM
- Clipper Type: cordless
- Battery Life: up to 8 hours
- Motor’s Power: 12 volts
- Warranty: 2 year
- Oil Included: No
- Best for: Battery Life
With an adjustable blade and powerful motor, this clipper is suitable for all dog breeds and coat styles. The removable blade is made of durable titanium and cool ceramic to provide a comfortable cut for your pooch. You can disassemble the unit to clean and oil the blades.
Featuring an aluminum alloy body, this product should feel light and comfortable in your hands. The copper motor has high RPMs for fast, effective trimming. It’s made to operate quietly at under 50 dB to reduce your dog’s stress level.
There are five-blade length adjustments and four-guard combs to tailor the length of the cut on your pooch. Guard combs, a warranty card, a cleaning brush, and an instruction book are included in the package.
What We Like
- It cuts thick coats easily
- The battery lasts a super long time
- It’s light and easy to use
- It’s easy to adjust the blade length
What Dogs Love About It
- It’s effective for shaving mats
- It’s quiet
What We Don’t Like
- The blade is narrow so it takes longer to clip your dog
- The guide combs tend to fall off.
Common Questions from Dog Parents
Are dog clippers different from human clippers?
Yes. Dog clippers are usually quieter and designed to handle fur. Human clippers may clog if you try to use them on your pooch.
Why are my dog clippers not cutting?
Dog clippers may not cut properly because:
- The blades are dull
- They’re clogged with hair
- The battery is running low on power
- The product is defective
- The machine needs to be cleaned and oiled
Do dog clipper blades need to be sharpened?
When dog clipper blades become cull, you will need to sharpen or replace them. Dull blades increase the risk of injury to your dog. Some blades are self-sharpening.
Why do dog clippers get hot?
When you shave your dog, it creates friction against the fur. This can be more pronounced in higher-powered motors.
What brand of clippers do professional dog groomers use?
Some of the top clipper brands that professionals use include Oster, Wahl, and Andis.
What makes heavy-duty dog clippers different?
Heavy-duty dog clippers usually have a more powerful motor, higher speed, and a durable blade that can retain its sharpness over time.
Why are Andis, Wahl, and Oster so much better than the competition?
Andis and Wahl clippers have a variety of clippers to meet different grooming needs. Oster has a superior heavy-duty motor. These products use quality materials rather than cheap plastics.
What are the best dog clippers for matted hair?
When trimming matted hair, look for corded clippers with a high rpm that won’t readily overheat.
One good option is the Oster A5 Two Speed Animal Grooming Clipper with Detachable Cryogen-X #10 Blade.
What are the best dog clippers for home use?
When looking for clippers to use at home, consider affordability, effectiveness, and comfort for you and your dog. You should look for a machine that is low-noise, durable, and suited to your dog’s coat.
How to trim dog face hair with clippers?
Bathe and brush your dog, then let him see and sniff the clippers. Then turn the machine on away from his face. Harness or secure your pooch and start on top of the muzzle and trim downward in the direction of growth. Lift the ears when trimming the cheeks. Use a comb and scissors around the eyes.
How long do dog clipper blades last?
The lifetime of blades depends on the material and quality of the blade. However, the best way to keep them sharp and in good condition is to regularly clean and oil them.
What is the Average price for Dog Clippers?
Most dog clippers will cost between $10 and $350 depending on their features and the manufacturing materials.
What types of Dog Grooming Clippers exist?
Clippers can be:
- corded or cordless
- single or variable-speed
- professional
- quiet/low-vibration
What are the best dog clippers for thick hair?
When dealing with thick hair, you want clippers that have:
- Variable speed to help you customize your trimming
- Ceramic blades help prevent the risk of burning your pup during the process
- Low noise to prevent spooking your pooch
How much does it cost to groom a dog?
Depending on the size of your dog and his coat type, grooming can average between $30 and $90.
Do you cut a dog’s hair wet or dry?
Your dog’s hair should be clean and dry when you cut it.
Are clippers better than scissors for dog grooming?
The answer to this question depends on your dog and the type of cut you want. High-strung dogs that panic at the sound of clippers may be easier to trim with scissors. Using shears can also produce a smoother, more detailed finish. However, it’s more time-consuming, and there’s a risk of accidentally cutting your dog’s skin.
Do I need to use blade oil on my dog clippers?
Yes. Dog hair removes the oil from the blade. If you don’t add a small drop of oil to the blade after each use, it can affect the performance.
Can I use regular clippers to remove matted hair?
When dealing with matted hair in dogs, you should use heavy-duty clippers with sharp blades. It’s important to have a machine that will stand up to the job and isn’t prone to overheating.
Veterinary Tips for Clipping and Grooming Your Dog
A freshly groomed dog can be a stunning sight, as long as the groomer knows what they’re doing. Before you grab the clippers and dive in, check out these tips.
Have a Plan: Have a picture of the finished product in mind before you get started. Think about the time of year and weather. How long or short do you want the coat? Study the breed standard, and talk to a professional groomer for helpful pointers.
Invest in the Right Equipment: Get a reliable set of dog clippers. Don’t hesitate to pay for quality equipment. In the long run, you’ll be saving money. Sharp blades and a quiet motor are essential.
Consider getting a set of clippers. Professional groomers usually have two clipper sizes. They use standard equipment for general grooming but also have a set of small trimmers for the face, feet, and ears.
Prep the Coat: Professional groomers always start with a bath and brush before clipping. A clean coat is easier to manage, so it will be a more pleasant experience for your pup.
Use Training and Treats: Don’t clip your dog before you spend time getting him used to the sound and sight of the equipment. Introduce your pooch to the clippers in advance of the first grooming session. Let him sniff them. Then turn the clippers on and let him hear the buzz. Offer treats and praise to reassure him during the process. That way, when it’s time to groom your dog, it won’t be a foreign experience. Continue to provide treats and praise during the grooming session to make it a more positive experience.
The Final Woof
After evaluating the above clippers and comparing them to our criteria, we recommend HOLDOG Professional Heavy Duty Dog Grooming Clipper 3-Speed as the best dog grooming clippers.
This machine has durable titanium blades and a powerful motor that’s designed to readily cut through thick hair. With three speeds, it’s made to work on all breeds and coats.
The quiet motor is less likely to scare your pooch than other models. It’s also low-vibration and lightweight, making it easy to hold and maneuver.
These blades feature 33 teeth (more than the standard number) so that they can effortlessly cut hair.
