General Tips for Dogs
Long-Haired Dog Breeds
Examples: Afghan Hound, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso
Preparation:
- Brush the coat thoroughly to remove tangles.
- Ensure the coat is dry before trimming.
Trimming the Paws:
- Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso: Trim carefully between the paw pads to prevent tangles and dirt.
- Afghan Hound: Leave more hair between the paws to maintain the breed’s natural look.
Other Sensitive Areas:
- Ears: Trim around the outer ear carefully.
- Eyes: Be extra cautious around the eyes, trimming only what is necessary.
- Rear End: Trim carefully for hygiene reasons.
Short-Haired Dog Breeds
Examples: Beagle, Boxer, Dalmatian
Preparation:
- Brush the coat to remove loose hairs.
- Ensure the coat is clean and dry.
Trimming the Paws:
- Beagle: Trim lightly between the paw pads, leaving some hair for protection.
- Boxer, Dalmatian: Trim thoroughly between the paw pads to keep the paws clean.
Other Sensitive Areas:
- Ears: Trim carefully around the outer ear.
- Eyes: Be careful not to get too close to the eye.
- Rear End: Trim carefully to avoid irritation.
We have gathered essential information about the 10 most common dog breeds in Australia:
-
Labrador:
- Paws: Trim lightly between the paw pads to keep them clean. Leave some hair for protection.
- Ears: Trim carefully around the outer ear.
- Eyes: Trim sparingly around the eyes.
- Rear End: Trim carefully for hygiene.
-
Golden Retriever:
- Paws: Trim thoroughly between the paw pads to prevent dirt and tangles.
- Ears: Trim carefully around the outer ear.
- Eyes: Trim sparingly around the eyes.
- Rear End: Trim carefully for hygiene.
-
German Shepherd:
- Paws: Trim lightly between the paw pads to keep them clean. Leave some hair for protection.
- Ears: Trim carefully around the outer ear.
- Eyes: Trim sparingly around the eyes.
- Rear End: Trim carefully for hygiene.
-
Bulldog:
- Paws: Trim lightly between the paw pads to keep them clean.
- Ears: Trim carefully around the outer ear.
- Eyes: Trim carefully around the eyes.
- Rear End: Trim carefully for hygiene.
-
Poodle:
- Paws: Trim thoroughly between the paw pads to prevent dirt and tangles.
- Ears: Trim carefully around the outer ear.
- Eyes: Trim carefully around the eyes.
- Rear End: Trim carefully for hygiene.
-
Beagle:
- Paws: Trim lightly between the paw pads, leaving some hair for protection.
- Ears: Trim carefully around the outer ear.
- Eyes: Trim sparingly around the eyes.
- Rear End: Trim carefully for hygiene.
-
Rottweiler:
- Paws: Trim lightly between the paw pads to keep them clean.
- Ears: Trim carefully around the outer ear.
- Eyes: Trim sparingly around the eyes.
- Rear End: Trim carefully for hygiene.
-
Yorkshire Terrier:
- Paws: Trim thoroughly between the paw pads to prevent tangles.
- Ears: Trim carefully around the outer ear.
- Eyes: Be extra cautious around the eyes.
- Rear End: Trim carefully for hygiene.
-
Boxer:
- Paws: Trim thoroughly between the paw pads to keep them clean.
- Ears: Trim carefully around the outer ear.
- Eyes: Trim sparingly around the eyes.
- Rear End: Trim carefully for hygiene.
-
Dachshund:
- Paws: Trim lightly between the paw pads to keep them clean. Leave some hair for protection.
- Ears: Trim carefully around the outer ear.
- Eyes: Trim sparingly around the eyes.
- Rear End: Trim carefully for hygiene.
Is your breed not listed?
We recommend contacting your nearest kennel club to find out what applies to your specific breed.
General Tips for Clipping & Trimming
- Calm Atmosphere: Make sure your pet is calm and comfortable before starting the trim.
- Right Tools: Always use clean and sharp trimming tools to avoid discomfort or injury.
- Safety: Be careful when trimming around the eyes and sensitive areas, and pay extra attention around the ears.
- Reward: Reward your pet after trimming to create a positive association with the process.
- Regular Care: Regular trimming and brushing can prevent tangles and keep the coat and skin healthy.


