Woman shaving a dog using a pair of Clippers

Dog Clipper Blades & Combs Explained: The Ultimate Groomer’s Guide to Perfect Cuts

When it comes to professional grooming, the right clipper blade can mean the difference between a smooth, effortless cut and a time-consuming, frustrating grooming session. Whether you’re tackling thick coats, fine detailing, or breed-specific styles, selecting the correct blade size, material, and type is essential.

In this guide, we’ll break down how clipper blades work, their different materials, and how to maintain them for long-lasting performance- all while keeping your comfort and efficiency in mind.

 

Contents:

  • How Do Dog Clipper Blades Work?
  • Types of Clipper Blades
  • How Long Do Clipper Blades Last?
  • Why Use Clipper Attachment Combs?

 

How Do Dog Clipper Blades Work?

Dog clipper blades consist of two parts:

  • A stationary blade (bottom)
  • A moving blade (top) that oscillates to cut hair

The size of the blade determines the final hair length left after cutting. The smaller the blade number, the longer the hair remains.

Blade #3F – Leaves longer fur (ideal for fluffy finishes)
Blade #7F – Great for thick coats (e.g., Spaniels, Golden Retrievers)
Blade #10 – Shorter cut (suitable for sanitary trims)

Pro Tip: For Sensitive Dogs: Use blades with rounded teeth (skip-tooth blades) to prevent pulling and discomfort, especially for dogs with delicate skin.


Types of Clipper Blades: Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing the right material impacts sharpness, durability, and cooling.

Blade Type

Best For

Advantages

Things to Consider

Stainless Steel Blades

General grooming

Affordable & widely available

Can heat up quickly

Ceramic Blades

Long sessions, sensitive dogs

Stays cooler longer, retains sharpness

More fragile

Titanium-Coated Blades

Heavy-duty work

Corrosion-resistant, ultra-durable

Higher price point

 

Groomer Well-being Tip: Ceramic blades are best if you groom for long hours, as they stay cooler and help reduce hand fatigue from overheating tools.


How Long Do Clipper Blades Last?

The lifespan of your blades depends on:

Frequency of use – Daily salon grooming? You’ll need frequent sharpening.
Coat types – Thick, coarse fur dulls blades faster.
Maintenance routine – Regular oiling and cleaning extend blade life.

Pro Tip: Store blades in a protective case to prevent damage and dulling between uses.

Browse our full range of Clipper Blades today.


Why Use Clipper Attachment Combs?

Attachment combs are essential for achieving consistent coat lengths while reducing the risk of cutting too short. If you want smooth, even results while prioritising dog comfort and your efficiency, attachment combs should be part of your grooming kit.

Safety First – Prevents accidental nicks by acting as a buffer.
Precision & Uniformity – Ensures consistent coat length for a polished look.
Gentler on Anxious Dogs – Reduces direct contact with blades, making grooming more comfortable for nervous pets.

Pro Tip: Using comb attachments means less pressure on your hands- you can glide through coats with ease instead of forcing the clippers through.

 

How to Attach Combs to Dog Clippers?

Follow these steps for a secure fit:

1. Turn Off the Clipper – Safety first!
2. Choose the Right Comb – Most fit #10, #15, or #30 blades.
3. Position the Comb – Hook it under the blade.
4. Secure the Comb – Slide until it clicks into place.
5. Test the Fit – Switch on the clipper and test on a small area.
6. Start Grooming – Move in the direction of hair growth.
7. Clean & Store – Keep your combs clean and organised.


Clipper Comb Guide: Choosing the Right Length

Comb Size

Coat Length Left

Best For

3mm (1/8")

Very short, tidy cuts

Poodle feet, close trims

6mm (1/4")

Short but soft finish

Spaniels, Retrievers

12mm (1/2")

Medium length

Natural-looking coats

19mm+ (3/4")

Fluffy, longer styles

Teddy bear trims, Doodles


Pro Tip: For Thick Coats: Opt for metal comb attachments- they glide through hair more easily than plastic ones.

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