How to shave your dog’s tail at home
Shaving your dog's tail is a quick and easy grooming task that can help keep your dog clean, comfortable and free from mats. Whether you're giving your dog a summer haircut, removing stubborn mats or grooming a breed that traditionally has a shaved tail, using the correct technique is essential to safely trim this delicate area and avoid accidentally nicking the skin.
If you'd prefer a longer, feathered look instead of a shaved tail, you might also like my guide on how to trim your dog's tail into a flag shape.
What you'll need:
To shave your dog's tail at home, you'll need:
A pair of dog grooming clippers, I use Heinigar cordless clippers
#10 blade for removing mats
A longer clipper blade if you're matching the length of the rest of your dog's coat (in the video below, I'll be using a 7F bladeto match Phoenix's body).
Dog grooming table or another stable grooming surface (optional)
Grooming belly sling if your dog likes to sit down during grooming (optional)
Slip lead attached to the top of the grooming table to help keep your dog still
How to shave your dog's tail
Start by brushing your dog's tail with a slicker brush to remove any knots and tangles. Then, gently hold the tip of the tail and clip from the base towards the tip, following the direction of hair growth. Use light pressure and let the clippers do the work, there's no need to press the blade into the skin.
If your clippers get caught on a mat, switch to a shorter #10 blade, which will make it easier to clip safely underneath the mat and remove it.
Take extra care around the tip of the tail, where the skin is thinner and more delicate. As you groom, regularly check that your clipper blade isn't getting too hot by placing it against the inside of your wrist. A hot blade can cause clipper burn, which is a red, itchy rash that can be very uncomfortable for your dog.
Once you've finished clipping, brush the tail against the direction of hair growth (from the tip back towards the base) using your slicker brush. This will lift any stray hairs that need touching up. Use a pair of straight dog grooming scissors with a rounded tip to carefully trim any hairs that are sticking out.
Grooming tips
Brush the tail before clipping to remove knots and tangles.
Keep your clipper blade cool to help prevent clipper burn.
If your dog likes to sit when you touch their tail, a grooming belly sling can make the job much easier.
Work slowly and keep the clipper blade flat against the tail.
Leave a small tuft of fur at the tip of the tail to hold while grooming, then trim it off at the very end.
If your dog becomes anxious, take regular breaks and reward them throughout the groom.
Watch my step-by-step video
Want to see exactly how I shave a dog's tail?
In the video below, I'll show you the clipper blades I use, how I safely hold the tail, what to do if you find mats, and the techniques I use to achieve a smooth, even finish while keeping your dog comfortable throughout the groom.
Watch the full step-by-step tutorial and groom along with me >
I’m a qualified dog groomer and fur-mum to two cavoodles; Soda and Poppy. I’m passionate about the health and wellbeing of dogs, as well as helping dog parents groom their dogs at home. I’ll teach you the basics, however if you don’t feel comfortable or confident at any time that’s completely fine, book your dog in for a regular groom and pamper session at the salon. Please never leave your dog unattended on a grooming table.
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