Buying guide for best dog clippers
Keeping your dog’s coat neat and trim isn’t just about making sure he looks good. Regular grooming also makes your dog more comfortable, so they don’t have hair hanging in their eyes or get too warm in hot weather. But taking your dog to a groomer for regular appointments can get pricey, which is why you may want to invest in a pair of dog clippers so you can easily trim their fur at home.
Dog clippers are designed specifically for the thicker fur that dogs have. Your dog’s skin is also more sensitive than your own skin, so dog clippers are able to effectively trim your dog’s coat without irritating their skin. The blades aren’t as likely to get hot as hair clippers because dogs are much more sensitive to heat than people are.
Key considerations
Corded vs. cordless
Both corded and cordless dog clippers are available. Corded clippers must be plugged into a standard wall outlet, while a cordless model runs on a rechargeable battery.
The benefit of cordless clippers is that you can use them anywhere in your home even if there isn’t an outlet nearby. You also don’t have to worry about the cord getting in the way when you’re trimming hard-to-reach areas like around your dog’s ears or paws.
But cordless dog clippers aren’t as powerful as corded models, so while they can handle light to medium coats just fine, they aren’t always able to cut effectively through coarse, thick fur. You also have to worry about corded clippers running out of power in the middle of a grooming session.
Single vs. variable speed
Some dog clippers only offer a single speed, which is often easier to handle when you’re new to grooming your pet. Single-speed clippers also tend to be lightweight, which can limit fatigue when used for prolonged periods.
However, you can find some dog clippers that offer variable speeds, so you’re able to choose between two to five speeds. Variable-speed dog clippers are more versatile and typically more effective for cutting through thick, coarse hair or knots and tangles. They’re also ideal if you need to groom dogs with coats of different thicknesses because you can choose the right speed for each pooch.
We compare cordless dog clippers to corded dog clippers, identifying the pros and cons of each. The benefit of cordless clippers is that you can use them anywhere, anytime. However, they aren’t as powerful as corded models.
We consider the material with which clipper blades are made. Most models have stainless steel or ceramic blades.
We assess how comfortable a dog clipper is to hold and handle. Ergonomically designed grips are great for long trim sessions because they won’t strain your hand.
We consider the noise output of various clippers. Powerful clippers tend to be louder, and some dogs don’t react well to noise. If this is the case, choose a clipper that operates at 50 to 60 decibels.
Some dog clippers include removable combs. We appreciate quality dog clippers with this feature, as it helps keep the blades away from the dog’s sensitive areas.
We consider the type (or types) of blades each clipper offers, thinking about who would benefit most from each type. For example, finish cut blades are best for dogs who need trimming and touch-up. Wide T-blades are best for dogs who need a complete shave. Skip-tooth blades are meant for precision trimming and shaping.
We give bonus points to dog clippers that come with a clear, easy-to-understand user pamphlet or manual.
Most dog clippers run at a single speed, but some offer two or more speeds. During our research, we note how many speeds are offered. Generally, a single speed is enough unless your pooch has extremely thick or matted hair.
When a dog clipper is cordless, we find out what type of battery is needed. For rechargeable batteries, we consider how long they last and how long they take to fully charge.
We consider how easy dog clippers are to clean. A dog’s clippers should be cleaned after every use. Directions for this are typically included with the packaging.
Features
Blade material
Dog clippers feature blades made of a few different materials. Most models have stainless steel or ceramic blades, though some have blades made of a combination of the two. Both materials are durable and resist rust, but ceramic blades typically stay sharp longer. You can also find dog clippers with chrome blades that are also rust-resistant as well as models with silver blades that offer antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Blade type
Certain blades are better suited to specific grooming tasks or breeds of dog. There are three main types.
- Finish cut blades are effective for trimming and touch-ups between grooming sessions. They’re also suitable for use after your dog has had a bath and for dogs with coats that grow quickly.
- Wide T-blades are designed for giving your dog a complete shave. They’re also suitable for large dogs and those with double coats.
- Skip-tooth blades are meant for precision trimming, shaping, and skimming. They should be used before your dog has been bathed.
Battery life
If you opt for cordless dog clippers, be sure to choose a model with a generous battery life, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power in the middle of grooming. Most models feature a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, but runtimes can vary.
For the most efficient grooming, choose dog clippers with at least 90 minutes of battery life per charge. Pay attention to the charging time required for the battery, too. Avoid clippers that take more than two to three hours to fully charge.
Combs
If you’re new to at-home grooming or have an anxious dog, it’s a good idea to opt for clippers that include snap-on combs. Clippers usually come with multiple combs that allow you to cut your dog’s hair to different lengths, but all combs are designed to keep the blades away from sensitive areas where your dog is likely to experience irritation or pain if you’re too aggressive.
Ergonomic grip
To avoid hand and wrist fatigue, choose dog clippers with a comfortable handle. Opt for a model with an ergonomically designed grip that won’t put too much strain on your hand, particularly during long grooming sessions.
Noise
In most cases, the more powerful dog clippers are, the more noise they make. Many dogs can get anxious around noisy clippers, which can make the grooming experience difficult for both of you. If you’re concerned about your dog getting upset, look for clippers that operate at no more than 50 to 60 decibels.
Dog clipper prices
Dog clippers vary in price based on whether they’re corded or cordless, how many speeds they offer, and what other features they provide. Most models cost between $10 and $350.
The most affordable dog clippers are cordless models that only have a single speed. They typically don’t offer much in the way of special features and range from $10 to $35.
Mid-range dog clippers are cordless or corded models that offer variable speeds. They typically offer some special features, such as combs and quiet operation, and generally range from $35 to $85.
The most expensive dog clippers are corded models that offer variable speeds and a powerful motor. They typically offer special features, including snap-on combs, quiet operation, and an extra-long cord, and range from $85 to $350.
Tips
- Before you groom your dog with a new set of clippers, always read the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for safe, effective operation.
- If your dog is new to getting clipped, have him get comfortable with the sound of the clippers by running them without using them. After a few test runs, your dog should be used to the noise, so he isn’t as anxious when you actually trim his fur.
- Wash your dog and brush out any tangles or mats before using your clippers to prevent the blades from tugging at their fur. Make sure that your dog is completely dry before clipping, too.
- Make sure that the blades on your clippers are sharp, so they don’t pull or snag your dog’s coat.
- During grooming sessions, check the blades of your clippers regularly to make sure they’re not getting too hot.
FAQ
Q. What’s the difference between clippers for dogs and hair clippers for people?
A. Dog clippers feature hardier, more durable materials that are able to trim coarse, thick dog fur and even cut through tangles and mats. Hair clippers tend to get hot if they’re used for prolonged periods, which can cause severe burns on your dog. Dog clippers, on the other hand, are designed to stay cool, so you don’t have to worry about Fido getting injured.
Q. How often should I use clippers on my dog?
A. It depends on the type of coat your dog has and what time of year it is. On average, you should trim your dog every six to eight weeks. In warmer weather, you may need to do it more often. Dogs with double coats also require more frequent trimming: once every week or every other week may be necessary.
Q. What sort of maintenance do dog clippers require?
A. You should clean your clippers after each use to remove any hair or other debris from the blades. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper cleaning method for your model. You should also oil the blades about every two months to make sure that they’re probably lubricated. Some manufacturers recommend a specific oil type for their clippers, so check your owner’s manual to see the best way to oil your dog clippers.
