COMB THE AREA
Make sure the coat is completely tangle-free and lifted away from the skin.
We Love Doodles cut and clip guide
A cleaner trim starts here
The right preparation and technique can make routine coat maintenance safer, smoother, and less stressful for you and your dog.
Before you begin
A good trim starts before the clippers
- Brush thoroughlyRemove tangles and loose fur so tools can move smoothly through the coat.
- Bathe and dryBegin clipping with a clean, completely dry coat.
- Comb from skin to endsA grooming comb should pass through every area you plan to trim. Guard combs cannot move evenly through a tangled coat.
- Create a calm setupUse a stable, non-slip surface in a well-lit area. Keep sessions short and allow breaks.
How to
CHOOSE THE RIGHT TOOL
Dog clippers
Best for maintaining body length and trimming larger areas. Clippers give a faster, more consistent result across the body on a clean, dry, tangle-free coat.
Grooming scissors
Best for detail work, shaping, and refining smaller areas — the legs, paws, and the outer outline of the coat.
LEARN THE
TYPES OF GROOMING SCISSORS
Straight scissors
Best for straight lines, general trimming, and defining the coat's outline. Especially helpful for evening the outer edge, shortening longer sections, shaping the legs, and cleaning up uneven areas after clipping.
Curved scissors
Best for rounded areas and softly shaped finishes. The curved blade follows the body's natural contours — rounded paws, a rounded face, contoured legs, shaping around the chest, and softening the coat's outline.
Thinning shears
Best for blending, softening, and removing harsh cutting lines. They remove only part of the hair with each cut — blending short into long, softening clipper lines, reducing bulk gradually, refining the face and head.
Not sure which to reach for? Start with straight scissors and blend the lines afterwards.
HOW TO
CLIP THEIR COAT IN 5 STEPS
Start with small trims
Take off a little at a time rather than trying to create the final shape immediately.
Shape with straight or curved shears
Use straight shears for general trimming and curved shears where you want a softer, rounded shape.
Blend the finish
Use thinning/blending shears to soften harsh lines and create a more natural transition.
Comb and check your work
Comb the coat back into place, look for uneven areas, and make small finishing adjustments.
WHERE TO
TAKE EXTRA CARE AND CAUTION
Slow down around these areas. Hover an area to see where it sits.
ANYTHING RAISEDMoles, skin tags, and other raised areas are easy to catch. For close trimming in sensitive areas, severe matting, or a dog that cannot stay still, book a professional grooming appointment.
Better together
COMPLETE YOUR GROOMING ROUTINE
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Should I use clippers or scissors?
Use clippers to establish an even length across larger areas of the body. Use scissors for shaping, blending, and refining smaller or more detailed areas.
What is each type of grooming scissor used for?
Straight scissors create clean lines and even out longer sections. Curved scissors follow rounded areas such as the head, legs, and paws. Thinning shears soften harsh lines, blend different lengths, and create a more natural finish.
Should I brush my dog before cutting or clipping?
Yes. The coat should be clean, completely dry, and brushed from the skin to the ends. A grooming comb should pass through the area without catching before you begin.
Can I cut through mats with scissors?
No. Mats can pull the skin up into the tangled fur, making it difficult to see where the skin ends and the mat begins. Never cut a tight mat with scissors — visit the dematting guide or consult a professional groomer.
How can I trim around the face and paws safely?
Make sure your dog is calm and still, clearly identify the skin beneath the fur, and trim only small amounts at a time. Keep scissor tips directed away from the eyes, skin, and paw pads. Stop immediately if your dog moves unexpectedly.
When should I go to a professional groomer?
Seek professional help for tight or widespread matting, sensitive-area clipping, irritated skin, or a dog that cannot remain safely still. And if you simply do not feel comfortable clipping, please visit your groomer.
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