Exam tomorrow!!!

[Benji]

Hi. I have to shave a dog completely for my exam tomorrow. I've only been learning how to clip Cocker Spaniels into their style so far. This will be the first time I shave a dog all over.

I'm quite apprehensive about this as I often make uneven strokes with the clipper and I don't like clipping over the breastbone as it is so easy to dig into this area. I'm afraid the dog will turn out all uneven or I will shave too close and the dog will look pink.

Has anybody got any clipping tips for me or any advice to calm my nerves?

Thanks.

[Benji]

Anybody?

[dobermom]

Sorry, I have no grooming experience.
I'm sure if you relax and take your time things will come out just fine! Get a good nights sleep, and eat a good breakfast.

[doglady]

I use to clip my sisters cockers coat very short all the time. He did not like it when my sister tried to clip him, but would settle down for me. Try to stay calm ...I know thats hard to do when your nervous about clipping something you didn't mean to. Since you have clipped cockers before then you have a good idea what to do. Your just doing a closer clip. As long as you take your time you will do fine.

[Trace]

I have nothing to offer you other than good luck.

Sorry.

[Dax]

Just relax and take your time. Good luck with your exam.

[KateWolven]

No worries! I'm the worst at testing, but somehow some way I always make it through. As nervous as you are just remember YOU KNOW YOUR STUFF!! You will do fine, and good luck!

[atedogs]

You may already practice this but on the breastbone the reason it gets caught in the blade at times is that it is looser thinner skin than lets say teh back for example. Pull the skin taught with the hand that isn't holding the blade and you will be least likely to grab or snag it. Roll the skin away from the clipper and go really slow over tricky areas. Make sure blades are sharpened, blades are well oiled, Cllpper isn't hot use cool lube or whatever else cools the blade down . Remember we are our worst enemies and slowly step by step you are bound to do it. It's those folks that are in a rush and inpatient that have the cut up pup. Good Luck to you. Eve

[Benji]

Here is the finished product. His head was too nice so we decided not to clip it.

Thanks for your advice guys!

[comfort80]

Originally Posted by Benji

Here is the finished product. His head was too nice so we decided not to clip it.

Thanks for your advice guys!

What breed dog was that?