Dog clippers: varieties, selection and application

Dog clippers are useful accessories. They are necessary for the owners for regular care of the abundant "fur coat" of the pet, are used as a means to create original images. But when you first buy it, it can be quite difficult to understand which trimmer is better. On sale are both full-featured models with a mass of attachments, and minimalistic versions that allow you to trim the regrown wool. How do you figure out which option should you choose?

A machine for dogs, unlike a human one, takes into account the peculiarities of their coat. The regular version, intended for human hair, is absolutely not suitable for grooming. It will simply burn out from overload, because the thickness, structure, density of the animal's coat has significant differences from similar parameters inherent in humans.

Another important point concerns the painful sensations. Knives that cannot cope with the animal's fur will simply pinch the hairs and cause severe pain to the pet. To prevent this from happening, it is imperative to use only specialized equipment produced by a well-known brand. "Unnamed" firms may well sell models to people under the guise of professional grooming equipment.

Among the fundamental differences between dog trimmers, it is worth noting:

• a different edge blade structure;
• the maximum degree of edge sharpening;
• increased equipment power level;
• a cooling system that allows you to work for a long time without overheating.

Considering these points, one can appreciate the advantages that modern machines for animal grooming have.

All existing types of clippers or dog trimmers can be divided into two large groups: mechanical and electrically operated... The first option is a classic used by many generations of dog breeders. The hand-held clipper is independent of the location of the electrical outlet. It is completely non-volatile, but it looks somewhat unusual - it resembles forceps, when closed, the hairs are cut.

Mechanical dog clippers are suitable for even the most timid and shy pets. They operate completely silently, are compact in size, and are suitable for use on the road. With such a machine, you can trim hairs in certain areas of the body, and especially in delicate areas.

Electric-powered household and professional trimmers can be self-contained or wired. Rechargeable models are always less powerful, they are convenient to take with you on trips and travels, and can be used in road conditions. The classic options are less mobile, but allow you to cut even the toughest, curly or thickest wool.

There are various design options for electric dog clippers.

1. Rotary. Professional models that work quite noisy, but are able to function for a long time without interruption. Cooling takes place using a special system, which avoids overloading the equipment. Such a machine is needed for dogs with curly, tough, thickened coats and other complex hair types.
2. Rechargeable. The quietest dog clippers. Expensive models support battery life up to 1.5 hours without recharging, budget models - up to 30 minutes. The presence of replaceable knives and attachments in the kit is a significant advantage.
3. Vibrating. The simplest and most affordable options. Suitable for hygienic grooming of small dogs at home. The motor of vibration machines heats up quickly, withstands no more than 30 minutes of continuous operation. After that, the device will have to be left to cool down.
4. Combined. This version has both a battery compartment and an AC adapter, with which you can vary the freedom of using the device. The tool is suitable for home grooming, handy if you need to regularly groom several small dogs. Some models are adapted for professional use, have a built-in charge indicator and a display for controlling functions.

Professional toy cars are mandatory for animals with thick and abundant hair, regularly needing to create a beautiful silhouette.

What does the rating of professional models of dog clippers look like, according to experienced groomers? An overview of their preferences includes the offers of such well-known brands as Oster, Moser, Charge, Wahl.

1. Codos CP-6800... Compact dog clipper with built-in battery, ergonomic handle. The rotary motor and the choice of the type of connection (mains or battery) make working with it as convenient as possible. On a battery, the technique works for up to 50 minutes, the blade is thin, adapted to cutting various types of wool, does not require sharpening. There are 2 replaceable nozzles, the device weighs 170 g, the cable is 2.5 m long.
2. Ziver 208... Combo model that supports mains connection and up to 2.5 hours of battery life. The set includes a replaceable ceramic knife that does not require sharpening, overcharge protection, 4 attachments and a power adapter. The machine has a power of 15 W, weighs only 230 g, is distinguished by its ergonomic design and ease of use. A convenient solution for pet hair care at home.
3. Codos CP-5000... Compact trimmer for home use, allows you to maintain the optimal length of hair on the paws, muzzle, groin of the dog. The knife is made of stainless steel, the lightweight aluminum body is comfortable to hold in the hand, the knives are easily removable. The battery life of the device is about 60 minutes.

1. Wahl Avalon 1290-0471... Model for grooming large dogs, originally it was used to shear horses. A speed of 3000 rpm, a power of 80 W, a battery with a belt mount provides the master with up to 3 hours of continuous work in any conditions. The model is used by professional groomers, has overload protection, rotary motor, built-in air filter, support for fast charging mode is available.
2. Andis AGC 2 Super. The high-quality rotary clipper with a 35 W motor supports two-speed operation: at 3400 and 4400 rpm. In the presence of a speed switch lock. The fully functional model has a weight of 500 grams, works almost silently, and can be used for wool of any type and density. The sealed plastic case is shock-resistant and has an ergonomic shape.
3. Wahl KM5. Professional trimmer with two-speed mode of operation, the model has an impressive margin of safety - up to 10,000 hours. The machine is equipped with a long (4.2 m) cable. The stainless steel knife has a special sharpening and an easily removable mount.

• Moser rex mini... Clipper for dogs with a wired type of food, focused on the organization of hygienic care, trimming the mustache, beard, suitable for treating paws. The power of the trimmer is no more than 5 W and it is equipped with a diamond-ground steel blade. The body is plastic, the weight of the mini-version is only 140 grams.
• Moser Fox. Simple and convenient machine for professional groomers with 4 attachments, scissors, blade cover, brush and lubricant included. The model is focused on working with small breed dogs, equipped with a vibration-type motor. The body has a shock-resistant structure, an ergonomic shape, there is a blade length adjustment with settings in 8 steps. The power is low - 10 W, the device has a limited capacity for continuous operation, light weight, and works quietly.
• Moser wahl show pro... Model of wired dog hair clipper with soft long hair. The low-power model has a minimum weight - only 450 g, allows you to adjust the length of the hair cut. The vibrating motor develops a speed of up to 5000 rpm. The interchangeable blades are screw-fastened, chrome-plated and steel-based. The set includes 5 attachments, a comb, scissors, the necessary accessories for the maintenance of the hair clipper.
• Oster Home Grooming Kit. Home grooming machine with classic knife type and 4 attachments included. The device has a power of 12 W, is suitable for working with soft coats, not suitable for clipping coarse-haired dogs. The plastic body is shock-resistant and has an ergonomic grip. The motor has a quiet operation, the model is equipped with a 2.4 m long cable, supports a change in the cutting height.

When choosing a dog grooming machine it is very important to pay attention to the operating parameters and characteristics.

1. Construction type. Mechanical models are suitable for small breeds with a short coat. With their help, you can make a slight shortening of hairs, remove the affected areas. Thick, coarse coat requires the use of only a professional clipper with high performance. For long-haired dogs with a soft coat, it is better to buy low-power rotary versions of the technique with a battery or a wired connection.
2. Equipment power. For small dogs with soft coats, models with power ratings up to 10 watts are suitable.They are also suitable for occasional trimming of certain parts of the body for hygienic purposes, suitable for paws, for ears, for the groin area. In professional salons, they use more powerful machines (35–45 W) with replaceable attachments, adapted for long-term continuous operation.
3. Case features... Plastic models should be of fairly high quality, with rubberized inserts to protect hands, not be afraid of impacts, and withstand significant heat. Metal cars are very heavy, they are rarely used by professionals. It is recommended to choose models with a non-slip coating.
4. The presence of a cooling system. It is mandatory for professional rotary machines designed for continuous or continuous operation. Some modern manufacturers of battery technology create uncooled "devices" that can also demonstrate long-term operation without overheating.
5. Additional accessories... Their presence is an indicator of the manufacturer's conscientiousness. Without attachments, wool can only be removed very shortly, which excludes the possibility of forming curly haircuts.
6. Unit weight... A dog clipper, depending on the model, can weigh about 500-700 grams. The lighter the equipment is, the easier it will be to hold it in your hand for a long time. In addition to the light weight, it is worth paying attention to the ergonomics of the case and the dimensions of the device.

Not every owner is able to properly trim a dog at home. It is necessary to take into account the breed characteristics, the type and quality of wool, the recommended length indicators. Often, grooming at home is done by professional groomers so as not to unnerve a young or nervous dog. But some care simply cannot be done outside the salon. However, ears, paws, mustache and beard can be cut independently using compact low-power devices.

Do not take the appliance with wet hands, use it without proper maintenance, or cut with a blunt knife. Previously, the dog's fur is washed, thoroughly combed out, and rid of tangles.

For clipping the hair on the paws, a fine grip attachment is used, which is able to remove hairs even in hard-to-reach places. Replacement element with middle knife is used when trimming the genital area. It can be used to delicately remove tangles. Cutting the hairs too short is not worth it in any areas, otherwise the dog may experience painful sensations and get scared.

It is necessary to hold the tool in the process of work parallel to the skin, without pressing the blades. If there are skin folds, you need to gently straighten them with your fingers, stretch them and gently machine them. When clipping the paws of poodles, a different technique is used: the clipper is directed against the fur.

Caring for this type of machine mainly consists of keeping the equipment in working order. It is very important to use the technique exclusively on clean, washed and combed wool to prevent dirt particles from entering the mechanism. Do not use a clipper with a damaged electrical wire, faulty battery: this can lead to fire, electrical injury.

A special brush removes the remnants of wool from metal and plastic parts. Complete disinfection of equipment with a special liquid must be used, especially when it comes to working in a professional salon.For home use, it can be purchased from specialist stores and canine hairdressers.

After work or long-term storage, the machine must be lubricated with the composition included in the delivery set. If you run out of original lubricant, you can replace it with machine oil or gun oil. Unlubricated structural elements work with noise, rub a lot, which can lead to destruction and failure of the tool.

Clipper knives must be subject to regular sharpening in professional services... The frequency of work depends on the frequency of use of the equipment. After sharpening, the master covers the metal elements with a special protective grease, which prolongs the life of the knives and prevents the formation of corrosion.

Professional groomers and amateur dog breeders leave rather positive reviews on the use of professional clippers from well-known brands. Low-power models, no more than 15 W, according to dog breeders, are only suitable for hygienic care. In addition, it is recommended to choose versions with a large number of interchangeable attachments and variable blade lengths.

Cars are especially popular with owners of decorative dogs and owners of wire-haired breeds. It is worth considering that rotary models are never cheap - for 2000 rubles you can buy only a cheap vibration version designed for short-term operation.

You will learn more about how to properly cut a dog with a clipper in the following video.