The dog grooming industry has evolved over the years in learning new styles, trends, skills, techniques, and most importantly the tools we use on a daily basis. Now there’s so many tools out there, not just the basics. These categories include shampoo brands, scissors, clippers, and brushes. It can all get overwhelming very quickly if you are just starting out to become a professional groomer. Personally, I use many tools and product lines, but would like to share my favorites that I’ve come to love and appreciate to get the work done efficiently.
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1. Wahl Professional Animal Bravura Lithium Clipper
When I first started grooming, I used the Wahl KM10 Professional 2-speed clippers. They have two settings: high and low. I loved the design, feel, and weight to it. As a professional groomer, know I should always have a back up clipper and when I tested the Wahl cordless bravura I instantly fell in love. The 5-in-1 blade adjusts between sizes #9, 10, 15, 30, and 40, offering a convenient variety of cutting lengths all in one. The blade itself doesn’t get very hot and the clipper will operate at full power until the battery runs out. You can also recharge the battery in 60 minutes or simply plug in the cord and continue to give your dog a haircut. I’m not endorsed or affiliated by Wahl, but I simply love using their tools. They come in a variety of colors and while they are not cheap, they are worth the price with long lasting durability.
2. Mini Wahl Professional Arco Clipper
I love this little clipper! This clipper already comes with a #30 attachment blade. Very ideal for quick and basic trimming in certain areas like the face, ears, and paws on dogs.
This is a great set for groomers who prefer to use snap-on combs over blades. These blades are the perfect accessory for clipping most types of dog coat. The combs go over most clippers, simply just slide it on. These blades come in various lengths and leave a smooth finish with little to no marks. Make sure to read which snap on comb set fit onto which brand of clippers.
I was first introduced to this brand of blades when I was in grooming school and have continued to use this ever since. I use a #30 under my clip-on combs. It’s important to use the same brand of blades because I’ve learned that blade lengths vary between companies. Make sure to always have doubles of each blade length because the blades will get hot. You will need to switch out blades out, so you don’t burn the dog.
5. Andis Fine Tooth Deshedding Rake
This deshedding rake is a game changer! I’ve come across many deshedding tools, but this one of the best deshedding rakes that I’ve used for shedders and double coated dogs. Does not break or cut through the hair. This tool is light and safely loosens the hair and removes the undercoat. I do recommend holding the skin taunt while you brush as this grasps much more hair and can pull at the skin.
6. Chris Christensen Slicker Brush
The Chris Christensen line has a variety of brushes for all types of dog breeds and they all come in different sizes. The Chris Christensen Long Pin (pink brush) has more pins and it’s used more for fluffy and cottony coats. The Chris Christensen Big K slicker (black brush) has less pins and it’s used more for longer and thicker hair coats. To remove the hair from the brush is pretty easy. You can use a comb to remove the hair or simply remove the hair with your fingers.
This brush is your every day go to brush for any type of dog breeds. They come in different sizes and pin lengths ranging from soft to hard. The soft slicker brush is great in between visits to the grooming salon. It helps to remove mats, tangles, and loose hair. With regular use this brush will help to reduce mats.
7. Artero Double Flexible Slicker Brush
Groomers carry a lot of combs and brushes for different type of dog coats. Not all brushes and combs are created and built equally. What I enjoy is the versatility of the double sided slicker brush that makes things convenient and help save time. The black side is for de-matting and the grey side is for brushing and removing loose fur. The flexible brush can reduce wrist injuries caused by repetitive motion overtime.
8. Combs
Metal greyhound combs comes in different styles, lengths, and colors. A very popular brand that I’ve come to love is the Utsumi. Combs are used for various purposes: prep work, to check your work after brushing, or to fluff up the dog’s coat.
The de-matting comb safely removes mats and tangles from a variety of dog coats. Place your thumb on the metal plate and slowly and gently flick your wrist to demat the hair. Do not pull the hair, especially if the matting is close to your dog’s skin because it will harm your dog.
10. Dream Shears & Utsumi Shears
My current go to shears are my Dream shears. I haven’t had the opportunity to purchase shears from different brands because they can get very pricey. The sturdy and good quality shears can range from $100-600+! Dream specializes in high-quality grooming scissors, thinners, and blenders created in Japan. Dream has developed a wide variety of well-received shears with exceptional durability and precision. I would love to try the Utsumi’s next!
These are just some of my top favorite tools and I hope you’ll try them too! I’m always trying new things, so the list will change.
