Best Dog Clippers: Buyer’s Guide for 2021

When you’re shopping for the best dog clippers, there are many factors to consider. With clippers designed for dogs, you can’t choose based just on style, power, or the fact that the clippers earned top marks from some dog owners. The best way to go about shopping for clippers for your dog is to consider their coat type. Of course, there are many other factors to take into consideration, but if you’ve never shaved your pet before, then you may not be sure what those factors are or how to go about finding the perfect pair of clippers for your dog. That’s where I come in. I’ve reviewed several of the leading models and I’ve narrowed it down to just six that made it onto my best of the best list. These clippers earned top marks for their ease of use, cutting efficiency, and setting options. Plus, they’re some of the most versatile models available, so they can be used on more than one coat type, although each pair does specialize on certain types of coats. I’ve also created a buyer’s guide which goes over the most important features to look for, so you’ll know exactly what type of clippers will work the best for your dog. Below, you’ll find a comparison chart that includes the six models that made it onto my list, how they rated, and their top features.

Dog Clippers Comparison Chart

Product	Corded or Corded	Coat Type	Power	Rating
ENJOY PET Dog Clippers Shop On Amazon!	Cordless	All	3.7 Volts
OMORC Dog Clippers  Shop On Amazon!	Corded	Thick	15 Volts
Yabife Dog Clippers Shop On Amazon!	Cordless	Thick	5 Volts
Oneisall Dog Clippers  Shop On Amazon!	Cordless	Ultra-Fine & Medium-Thick	3.7 Volts
Holdog Dog Clippers Shop On Amazon!	Cordless	All	110 Volts
Wahl Clipper Dog Grooming Kit Shop On Amazon!	Corded	All	120 Volts

ENJOY PET Dog Clippers

Our Rating: (5/5)

These cordless clippers feature a high capacity battery with a seven-hour battery life, when fully charged. The motor comes in at fifteen watts, 3.7 volts and features up to nine-thousand revolutions per minute. The powerful motor also features non-clogging technology, for a smoother grooming process. The blades are sharp and designed for all types of coat including thick, thin, and ultra-fine. With a sound rating of fifty to sixty decibels, these clippers are considered one of the quietest on the market.

Conclusion

These clippers make it easy to maneuver the clippers when you’re grooming your pet and can be used on all coat types, making them very versatile and beginner friendly. The clippers offer a longer than average runtime, thanks to the 2000mAh lithium-ion battery and tough motor. These clippers are perfect for dogs with thick coats or multi-dog households.

OMORC Dog Clippers

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

These corded clippers are packing twelve-volts of power, with a high rotating speed for lasting use. This means the blades are able to easily trim thicker hair without pulling or snagging the fur, and without dealing with clogs. The blades are made out of high carbon steel, which is more durable than alternative materials. The multi-sized, sharp blades can easily and smoothly cut through any type of hair, however, these clippers definitely specialize in thicker coats. The special R-shaped blades are designed to protect your pet’s delicate skin from irritation and cuts. This model has a sound decibel rating of sixty, which is better than average, allowing you to groom your pet any time of the day or night, without waking the whole house. This package includes a total of eight combs, so you can choose the perfect coat length for your pet.

Conclusion

These corded clippers can be a better option if your pet has a thicker coat, since it offers more power and you won’t have to worry about the battery dying during use. Handy, easy to use and equipped with sharp, durable blades and a motor that won’t overheat, these clippers are a steal for the price.

Yabife Dog Clippers

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

If you have several dogs at home that need grooming, then you need to use a pair of clippers that are able to withstand heavy-duty use. That’s where these clippers really shine.

These clippers are pro-quality, yet beginner friendly. The set includes a total of six combs, so you can choose the perfect coat length for your pet. The set also comes with scissors and a steel comb, storage bag, and cleaning brush. The blades are made out of ceramic and stainless steel, and will stay sharper, longer. These battery-powered clippers can be charged via a USB cable and are powered by a lithium-ion battery. The LED display will clearly list the battery life and charging status, so you can keep a close eye on the runtime and avoid using low-powered clippers that will run out of juice during use.

Conclusion

These cordless clippers will make it easier to groom larger, hyper dogs, since you won’t have to worry about a short cord or your pet accidentally unplugging the clippers during use. This durable model comes equipped with sharp blades that require very little maintenance, and the set comes with some great extras that make grooming your pup a breeze.

Oneisall Dog Shaver Clippers

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

If you have a hyper dog, or one that becomes easily stressed during grooming, then a pair of cordless clippers will be a great choice, since they will improve your maneuverability, allowing you to easily access all those hard to reach areas.

These rechargeable clippers are powered by a lithium-ion battery. As an added bonus, these clippers can be used as they’re charging, so you’ll never have to worry about the clippers running out of juice as you’re grooming your pet. The blades are made out of stainless steel and ceramic and are designed to provide a powerful cutting performance, although these do have a reputation for struggling with thicker coats. These are ultra-quiet clippers that feature a lower than average vibration, offering a fifty-decibel sound rating. This set comes with a total of six combs to choose from. These detachable combs make it easy to choose the right coat length for your pet.

Conclusion

These clippers tend to struggle with thicker coats, so they may not be suitable for all breeds, especially those with double coats. While these clippers may not be the most powerful on the market, they’re a great choice for dog owners with pets that have ultra-fine to medium-thick coats.

Holdog Dog Clippers

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This is another pair of top-selling cordless clippers that scored well in many areas. The blades are made out of a tough ceramic and titanium blend, with a new thirty-three teeth design that helps to reduce snagging and blade clogs. It also allows you to use these clippers on coats of all thicknesses and lengths. These clippers can also easily handle double coats, which is a huge plus for many pet owners. The low vibration and low noise level will help to reduce stress in pets who are sensitive to noise and the feel of vibration. The clippers have a noise rating of just fifty decibels, which is excellent.

Conclusion

These cordless clippers feature a unique titanium and ceramic blade design, with thirty-two teeth, which provides a smoother and cleaner cut, especially when compared to traditional clippers which have a teeth count of twenty-four. The clipper’s low vibration not only works to reduce stress in pets, but it also makes the clippers easier to hold and maneuver, for improved control. These clippers work well for coats of all lengths and thicknesses, so they will be a great buy if you live in a multi-dog household.

Wahl Clipper Pet-Pro Dog Grooming Kit

Our Rating: (4/5)

This kit includes corded clippers and a variety of color-coded guide combs, that make it easier to choose the right coat length for your pet. The clipper’s blades are made out of high carbon stainless steel, which means they’re able to retain an edge for longer. The blades feature a snag-free design and are self-sharpening. The heavy-duty motor can easily handle cutting through the thickest coats, without snagging the fur or causing skin irritation. The taper level of the clippers is adjustable and designed for easier fading and blending. While the clippers feature a powerful motor, they also tend to run hot rather quickly, which can transmit heat to the skin, causing burns and discomfort. Additionally, the clippers struggle with fine and ultra-fine coats, so they will not be a good choice for certain breeds, such as poodles.

Conclusion

The included color-coded guide combs make these clippers very beginner-friendly, so it’s easier for the owner to choose the right comb length, however, these clippers are not without their drawbacks.

While these clippers are a good choice for medium-thick and thick coats they should not be used for ultra-fine and fine coats. Because the clippers tend to run hot during use, you will need to shut them off and give them a break until they cool down, in order to avoid burning your pet’s skin.

Dog Clippers Buyer’s Guide

If your dog has a thick coat, or they have high grooming needs, then you probably spend a fortune on grooming every year. Not only can taking your dog to the groomers be costly, but it can also be very time-consuming. If you’re tired of giving up your Saturday morning to take your dog to the groomers, you can’t afford to take your dog to the groomers as often as they need, or you have a multi-dog household, then investing in a pair of dog clippers is money well spent. These grooming tools are invaluable for families on a tight budget and they’ll definitely come in handy for multi-dog households. These days, there are dozens of top of the line models to choose from, but if you don’t know what to look for, then you may end up with a pair of weak clippers that easily overheat, or constantly need to be sharpened. Fortunately, this guide has all the information you need to buy the best clippers for your pet, and a pair that will last year after year.

Purchasing some clippers is a great way to save money and keep your dog cool and comfortable. As I mentioned above, there are many things you’ll want to consider before you buy, which I’ll go over below, so you can make an informed decision when it’s time to hit that buy now button.

But first, before I dive into the important features to look for, first I’ll discuss some of the benefits that come with buying high-quality clippers for your pet.

Dog Clippers Benefits

You already know that shaving your dog yourself can save you plenty of money a year, especially if your dog has high grooming needs, but there are other reasons to purchase clippers for your pet.

• If your pet is hyper, then he or she may be more than a groomer is willing to handle. If you don’t want your dog restrained when they’re groomed or you’re having a hard time finding a groomer that’s willing to deal with your bundle of energy, learning how to shave your pet yourself can save you plenty of time and frustration.
• If your dog has anxiety due to past traumatic grooming experiences, then they will definitely benefit from you taking over the job. Some dogs can become very anxious when it’s time to see the groomer. Shaving your pet yourself can make the experience much less traumatic for your pet.
• Shaving your dog will save you a lot of time. No longer will you have to spend a Saturday at the groomers. Now, you can groom your pet whenever they need it.
• If you have a dog with a high maintenance coat, such as a poodle, then you can save some serious cash. Poodles often require grooming once a month or once every six weeks. The cost can really add up. Learning how to groom your pet on your own will potentially save you hundreds of dollars a year.
• Is your dog prone to matted fur? Not only can mats look unsightly, but they can also be painful for your pup. If you find any mats on your pet, then you can quickly break out the clippers and shave it right off, instantly relieving your pet’s discomfort.
• Does your pet have a skin condition? Dogs with certain skin conditions and allergies may need to be shaved more often. As an example, if your pet has a flea allergy, shaving their fur can make treating their flea problem a cinch, and will also help you keep a close eye on their skin problem. Other types of skin issues can cause ulcers and sores, which can be hard to treat if your pet has a thick coat. Shaving the coat will allow their skin to absorb more of the medication, providing better treatment results.
• In the summer, some pets can struggle with the hot weather. To keep your pet nice and cool in hot weather, you can shave them down and maintain that short coat, all summer long.

Other Important Features of Best Dog Clippers

There are many different styles, sizes, and types of clippers to choose from, so making the right choice can seem a little overwhelming. However, there are many key factors that you’ll want to take into consideration before you hit that buy now button.

So, what features should you pay attention to when you’re shopping for dog clippers?

• Power
• RPMs
• Speed Settings
• Corded or cordless
• Noise
• Blades
• Guides
• Price
• Warranty

The quality of these features can indicate how well the clippers work, and how long they’ll last.

Power

Cutting power will be the first consideration when you’re shopping for a pair of clippers. So, what is the RPM for the blades? How powerful is the motor? Does the model you’re interested in have a variable speed option?

Motor Power Based on Dog Coat Type

The motor in clippers must rotate in order to move the blades, allowing them to cut smoothly. Many buyers think that a more powerful motor offers better cutting action. However, that’s not always the case. A more powerful motor can cut through any type of coat, but the blades often heat up and the vibrations the motor emits can make  a dog uncomfortable. Additionally, a more powerful motor often equals more noise, which can also cause distress in some pets.

The type of clippers you buy should be based on the thickness of your pet’s coat. Basically, the thicker a dog’s coat, the more power you’ll need. For coats that don’t require much grooming or those with thinner coats consider a model with an electromagnetic motor. These clippers are low-maintenance and are usually more affordable than groomer-style clippers.

Dogs that have thin to medium-thick coats may require more frequent grooming, so go for a pair that come equipped with pivot motor clippers. Pivot motor clippers also come equipped with an electromagnetic motor, which uses a configuration that provides more power compared to a standard pair of electric clippers.

If your dog has a heavy, coarse coat, then rotary motor clippers can provide the type of power you need to cleanly and smoothly slide through a thick coat. Pro-quality clippers come with a rotary gear-driven motor and feature a blade attachment that will allow for fast blade changes when you’re grooming multiple dogs.

RPMs

Variable speed clippers are used by groomers and are considered the best tool for thicker coats.

When used on mats or coarse coats, the clippers should cut through the coat smoothly. If the clippers are not powerful enough, they will not be able to handle cutting through denser coats. The clipper’s RPM will be a great indication of how much power they have to offer. A good pair of clippers will offer a higher RPM. Just keep in mind, a higher RPM generates more noise and vibration. If you use clippers at full speed for a while, your dog may become uncomfortable with the level of heat that’s emitted.

Speed Settings

The power of a motor is often determined by its speed settings, the presence of a cord, and the motor strength. Power can also be determined by rotary speed per minute. This is what allows the user to smoothly cut through coarse coats and mats.

Clippers typically fall into one of two categories: single and variable speed settings.

Single speed settings can be the best option for beginners. These clippers don’t usually struggle with heat management like variable speed models do.

Heat

The amount of heat generated by a pair of clippers can make holding them uncomfortable for you and can potentially burn your pet. As the motor struggles to move the blades when they’re switched on the highest setting, it can generate a lot of heat. A model that comes equipped with a powerful enough motor will be able to easily operate, without the clippers heating up.

Corded & Cordless Dog Clippers

When you’re dealing with a hyper dog then a pair of cordless clippers can be a better option, since you won’t have to worry about your pet getting tangled in the cord or accidentally pulling the cord out of the outlet. The biggest benefit cordless models offer over their corded counterparts is their maneuverability. However, with a pair of corded clippers, you won’t have to worry about the clippers dying during use, and corded models usually offer more power.

If you’re interested in purchasing a pair of cordless clippers, take a look at the runtime. How long will the clippers work before they need to be recharged? How long does it take to fully charge the clippers? The answers to these questions can help you choose the best cordless pair for you and your pet.

Noise

Some models are quieter than others, however, models that have larger motors will make more noise. This is something to keep in mind if you have a dog with anxiety issues.

Some dogs may become anxious as soon as you switch the clippers on, this can be due to a bad past grooming experience, or they simply may be sensitive to certain sounds. If this is your first time using clippers on your pet, make sure you give them a little time to adjust before you actually use the clippers. Turn the clippers on once a day for one or two minutes, making sure your pet is in the room. This will help them to become familiar with the sound. Next, touch the clippers to their coat, gently. You don’t have to make a cut, you’re doing this to just show your dog that the clippers will not hurt them. Depending on your dog’s personality and whether they’re anxious by nature, it can take one to two weeks to get your dog used to the sound of clippers and comfortable with the noise.

Blades

Over the past several years, blade quality has improved. Some models use interchangeable blades that can be found pretty much anywhere. Other models will come with blades that can only be purchased directly from the manufacturer.

Models that come equipped with ceramic blades are recommended by the pros, but these clippers are usually more expensive. Clippers with these blades are recommended because they don’t generate as much heat as stainless steel blades, so they’re a better choice if you have a larger dog, which equals a longer grooming session.

Guides

Clippers will come with a set of guides, also referred to as combs. These guides will come in different lengths, making it easy for the user to achieve the perfect length. Most sets will come with five to ten guides. The more guides, the more expensive the set.

Frequency of Use

Do you use your clippers often? How many dogs will you use the clippers on? If you have just one dog, then a pair of moderately priced clippers should be sufficient. If you live in a multi-dog household, then it’s definitely worth it to invest in a pair of high-quality clippers, a pair that can handle heavy-duty use.

Price

Pet clippers are now more affordable than ever, so you can expect to pay anywhere from twenty dollars over one hundred dollars for a great pair of clippers. If your dog has a high maintenance coat then I recommend investing in a higher priced pair of clippers, since you will use them more often. If you normally have your pet shaved by the groomer, then you’re probably already paying around fifty to one hundred dollars per grooming visit, so your new clippers will quickly pay for themselves.

Warranty

Typically, only higher priced clippers will come with a warranty, although, some lower priced models will come with a thirty to ninety-day money back guarantee. If you’re purchasing a high-priced pair of clippers, then search for a model that comes with a six to twelve-month warranty.

Common Problems to Look for

• If you’re shopping for clippers, make sure you read dog clippers reviews. These will clue you into any common problems you may come across with each specific model you’re interested in, and you’ll read unbiased reviews from people who have actually used these products.
• The biggest issue with clippers is snagging and burns. Make sure the clippers you purchase do not have a reputation of overheating.
• You should also pay close attention to the types of coats the clippers will work well with. Some are a better choice for fine coats, short coats, or extra-thick coats.
• Choosing clippers based on the type of coat your pet has can help to minimize the chances of burning your pet’s skin or snagging their fur.
• Of course, if you live in a multi-pet household, then you’ll need to look for a versatile pair that can work with most coat types.
• If your pet has a dual coat, then look for a pair of clippers that are equipped with a higher-powered motor. Low-powered motors will struggle to cut through dense coats, which can lead to overheating and heat transmission.

By carefully reading the information in this buyer’s guide regarding important features and what to look for, based on coat type, you can easily find a pair of clippers that will work for your pet’s coat.

How to Use Dog Clippers

Using clippers can be tricky, depending on your dog’s coat. If their coat is prone to mats, or their coat is very thick, then you’ll need to take certain steps to ensure that the clippers don’t pull on their coat or burn them during use. Below, you’ll find tips and tricks you can use when clipping your dog, to prevent injury and discomfort and to make sure the clippers you’re using are always in proper working order.

• Before you rush in and start using your new clippers, make sure you do your research. If you’re switching from having your pet groomed by a pro to doing it yourself in order to save some money, speak with your current groomer before you make the switch and ask if they have any simple grooming tips. You can also watch instructional videos online on sites such as YouTube.
• Make sure you bathe your dog and that he or she is completely dry before you use the clippers. Using the clippers on a wet or dirty dog can cause the clippers to pull their hair. It can also cause your dog pain and discomfort, and skin irritation.
• Don’t let your dog’s coat go ungroomed for too long. It’s much easier to maintain a cut than it is to start from scratch. Shoot for fast and simple trims once a month.
• Each breed requires a different type of clip. If you’re not sure what type of cut will work for your dog, look online for standard breed information.
• When using the clippers, make sure you clip the coat in the same direction that the hair grows in. Cutting against the hair can cause skin irritation and will pull on the dog’s coat instead of cutting it.
• When you begin a cut, make sure you start on larger areas. Most groomers will begin by clipping a dog’s back, then they will work their way toward a small area. If you’re not comfortable with using the clippers on your pet’s face or other sensitive areas, then you can also switch to using thinning shears or grooming scissors for these areas.
• Make sure you sharpen the clipper’s blades regularly. Sharpening the blades often will lengthen the life of your clippers and will also prevent them from pulling on your dog’s coat. To sharpen the blades, clean them, apply oil, then remove any rust using a blade wash. The blades should be run over a sharpening stone. You will need to continue sharpening until the blades look shiny.
• Overheated clipper blades can cause skin burns. The blades at the end of a cutting session will be much hotter than they were at the start. Allow the clippers to cool down before you start clipping sensitive areas such as the head, paws, and stomach area. If you’re not sure whether or not the blades are too hot, then shut them off, mid-clip, and touch them to your skin.

Frequently Asked Questions on Best Dog Clippers

How Often Should Clippers Be Oiled?

When you use clippers, they should be oiled prior to use, each time. Oiling the clippers keeps the blades moving smoothly and prevents the blades from sticking. If the blades are not oiled the friction can cause the blades to heat up. Unoiled clippers will not cut properly, will emit too much heat, and can cause razor burn and skin irritation. Fortunately, most clippers will come with a small tube of oil for this purpose.

Should A Dog Be Bathed Before Grooming?

You should definitely give your pet a bath before you groom them. While this can be dependent on the type of coat they have, in most cases, bathing before you shave your pet is always a good idea because it can remove dirt and debris, which can clog clippers.

Is it Better to Brush a Wet or Dry Dog?

Most groomers recommend brushing a dog when their coat is dry. Brushing a wet coat can make their mats even worse and can make them almost impossible to remove. If you want to brush your dog’s coat after a bath, allow their coat to dry fully before brushing.

What Do Groomers Use to Make a Dog Smell Good?

Groomers will use a type of shampoo that’s specially formulated for dogs. These shampoos are designed to eliminate odors from the skin and coat. These shampoos contain odor-killing agents that work to eliminate odors, which will help to keep your dog smelling great for up to one week.

Why Are My Dog Clippers Not Cutting?

In most cases, your clippers will not cut because the blade is dull. It can also be due to mats in your dog’s coat, which will make it difficult for the blade to cut through.

Final Thoughts on Best Dog Clippers

The best dog clippers will work for your pet based on their coat type and thickness, in addition to the size of your dog. If you live in a multi-pet household, then a pair of more powerful clippers are needed, since they’re designed to run longer, without overheating. A hyper dog may benefit from you using a pair of cordless clippers, since they can easily become tangled in the cord, or can accidentally unplug the clippers. As you can see, aside from motor power, there are many things to consider, in order to narrow down your choices and find the perfect pair of dog clippers for your household. I hope my guide and my product recommendations have placed you on the right path to purchasing a pair of clippers that are built tough, durable, and a model that will work perfectly for your pet and your budget.