Straight grooming shears are typically 7–8 in (18–20 cm) long. Before each cutting session, squeeze 3-4 drops of scissors oil on a clean cloth and rub it over the blades and hinges. You can buy the oil along with the scissors at pet supply stores.
A non-slip rubber mat is the best option for your table, as it offers secure footing for your dog. For example, you might use a rubber shower mat. Set up the table so that your scissors are within easy reach, along with a grooming brush with metal pins, a slicker brush (for removing matted fur), and a grooming comb—all of these are available at pet supply retailers. Never leave your dog unattended while it’s on the table, even for just a few moments. It may jump down from the table, which can cause injuries, including possible broken bones.
You might, for instance, go over the entire coat with the #1 length guard attached to the clippers. This should create a coat length that’s pretty close to the typical Kennel Clip. Run the clippers against the direction of hair growth in smooth, even strokes. Some dogs may not like the sound or feel of clippers initially, but most will get used to it over time. In some cases, you may have no choice but to resort to full scissor cutting.
You can pick out knots and mats with a pin brush, if the comb doesn’t work on its own.
Never use human shampoo on dogs. Buy dog shampoo from a pet supply store.
Never use human shampoo on dogs. Buy dog shampoo from a pet supply store.
Dab the poodle’s fur with the towel to remove surface moisture—don’t rub and brush with the towel, or you’ll create knots and mats.
Whenever you come across matted fur, try to work it free with the pin brush or grooming comb. Next, try the slicker brush, which will cut through most mats. If necessary, cut the mat away with the grooming scissors.
Another good option is the Puppy Clip, which is similar to the Kennel Clip, but leaves the hair a little longer and more poofy. Or, try the Fox or German Clips, both of which use a similar length to the Kennel Clip, but shave the hair on the tail and neck.
This is why it’s beneficial to watch a professional groomer do the job a few times first! In terms of where to start, plan to go from the ankles up on each leg, then from either the backside to the neck or vice versa. Leave the feet, underside, genitals, and head for last (in that order), since these are sensitive areas.
If, for instance, you’re working on one of the legs, fluff up all the hair on that leg, from above the foot to below the shoulder.
You might occasionally cut against the grain (the direction of hair growth) to snip away any noticeably long patches, then do the bulk of your snipping in that section with the grain.
Always remember—it’s easy to trim off more hair as you go, but you can’t put more back on! The constant movement means that scissor cutting can be very tiring for your hand. You may need to ice it down afterward!
If you can, ask a friend to keep your dog calm and under control while you do the grooming. Take your poodle out for a long walk before the bath and haircut. They’ll be more calm and less energetic. In some cases, you may need to complete the haircut over multiple sessions.
Scissor trimming a poodle requires continuous visualization and comparison of what you’ve cut so far and what needs to be cut. You want the coat on all 4 legs to end up with the same shape and contour, for instance. In all honesty, lots of practice is the only way to master this skill. Work on just the legs for now—leave the feet and armpits for later.
If you accidentally trim a small section too short, try to taper the surrounding hair so that the problem spot is less noticeable. Or, scissor trim the entire coat shorter to match.
To get the traditional pom-pom look, use electric clippers with the lowest guard setting to trim the base half of the tail, then use the curved and/or straight scissors to round off the hair on the other half.
If you do decide to use clippers, shave from the ankle downward over the top and back of the foot, then slightly taper or round off the hair right above the ankle bone with scissors. You can use the straight scissors on the feet, but be extra careful not to snip or poke the sensitive skin between the toes or on the pads.
To access the armpits, you’ll have to raise one leg at a time. Keep the dog’s other feet securely on the table, and offer lots of encouragement and praise as you work. Unless you’re very confident in your skills with the straight scissors, use the rounded safety tip scissors in the armpits and around the genitalia.
Use the rounded safety tip scissors to trim hair around and between the eyes, nose, and mouth. Work very slowly and carefully, and stop whenever your dog moves. The face is the toughest area to get “just right” as an amateur dog groomer. Watch a professional groomer work several times, and ask for advice and tips, before trying to do it yourself.
