Groomong clippers

Question
I have two Yorkshire Terriers and I want to start clipping them myself. However it is all confusing to me, can you help? I need to know if there is a all purpose clipper I can buy or do you recommend buying a regular clipper with different blades. What brand do you recommend? What blades do I use where and can you explain to me what these clipper plastic attachments are for and how do you know what blade to use them with? Thanks, Lisa


Answer
Lisa, Welcome to the world of pet grooming.
There are many clippers that you can pick and choose. I personally use Oster A-5 clippers for small breeds. I like them because they run a little slower, they don't heat up the blade as quickly as other clippers. These usually come with one blade which is detachable. All good clippers will have detachable blades. I also use Andis for larger breeds. They run at a much higher speed, so they get through the heavy coats like butter.
For your sweet things I would recommend Oster A-5 with a #10 blade. You may also want to purchase a #40 blade. With these two blades you could complete the task at hand.
The plastic attachments are to be used on top of the #40 blade. These are combs which set the length of the cut.
The #40 would be used on the pads and ear tips only. Look at the teeth on the blade. (they have very tiny teeth) This insures that small pieces of skin will not slip into the cutting blade. The #10 should be used on the tummy and the rectal area. (Potty trail)
The attachments can be slipped on the #40 to trim down the longer hair if that is your desire. These combs are sometimes hard to master to achieve the look that you want so be patient.
Be sure to clip nails on a regular basis so that the dogs do not get caught up in carpets.
Keep eyes and ears clear of any discharge. Be sure and learn to express anal glands so they do not get infected. Ask your veterinarian to show you how to do this from the outside. This will insure your little joys don't scoot their bottoms on the carpet.
Buy your clippers at any pet retail store in the box. The box will include blade oils and other pertinent information that will insure your blades stay in good working order.
Good luck with the experience. Take your time if starting on young dogs. That first few grooms sets the pattern for a lifetime.