Snap-on attachment comb lengths explained
Snap-on combs, which are also referred to as attachment combs or clipper guards, control the length you groom your dog’s fur. They're one of my favourite grooming tools because they're so simple to use. Just snap the comb onto your clipper blade, and you're ready to start grooming.
Wahl attachment comb set
I use the Wahl attachment comb set, which includes eight different comb lengths. Having a range of lengths is incredibly useful because I can choose the right one depending on the breed, the time of year and the condition of the dog's coat. For example, I might leave the coat a little longer in winter or use a shorter comb if the fur is heavily matted.
The combs are colour-coded, making it quick and easy to grab the right size while you're grooming, and they come neatly stored in a handy case to keep everything organised.
Comb lengths
Number 1 comb - 3mm or 1/8 inch
Number 2 comb - 6mm or 1/4 inch
Number 3 comb - 10mm or 3/8 inch
Number 4 comb - 13mm or 1/2 inch
Number 5 comb - 16mm or 5/8 inch
Number 6 comb - 19mm or 3/4 inch
Number 7 comb - 22mm or 7/8inch
Number 8 comb - 25mm or 1 inch
If you’re not interested in the set you can also buy these combs individually.
How to use snap-on combs
These combs easily snap onto most #10, #15 or #30 clipper blades. I attach mine to a #10 blade on my Heinigar cordless clippers.
Attaching them is quick and simple. Just hook the comb onto the base of the blade, then push it upwards with your fingers until it clicks securely over the blade teeth. Once it's locked into place, you're ready to start grooming.
I also prefer these Wahl attachment combs because they're made from stainless steel rather than plastic. While plastic combs can catch on knots and mats, sometimes bending or even breaking the teeth, stainless steel combs glide much more smoothly through the coat. They feel sturdier, last longer and help produce a much neater, more even finish.
What comb lengths do I typically use?
My all-time favourite is the #2 comb, which leaves the coat at 6 mm (¼ inch). It's my go-to length because it gives dogs a nice, neat clip without shaving the coat too close to the skin.
I generally use the #1, #2 and #3 combs for summer clips. These shorter combs leave the coat looking tidy and low-maintenance while still providing good coverage.
The #4 comb is perfect if you're after a fluffier finish. It leaves the coat at 13 mm (½ inch) and is my favourite for creating that soft, teddy bear look. If I've used a #1, #2 or #3 comb on a dog's body, I'll often switch to the #4 comb for the head to leave it slightly fuller and more rounded.
I don't use the #5 to #8 combs very often because many of the dogs I groom arrive with matted coats. In those cases, I need a shorter comb that can clip underneath the mats. However, if you brush your dog every week and have them groomed every 6–8 weeks, you'll usually be able to maintain a longer coat and make good use of these longer combs.
The two longest combs, #7 and #8, are favourites of mine for grooming puppies. Puppy coats are often softer and straighter than adult coats because their mature coat hasn't fully come through yet, so they typically have fewer knots and the comb glides through the fur with ease. The #7 comb leaves the coat at 22 mm (⅞ inch), while the #8 comb leaves a full 25 mm (1 inch) of coat for a soft, fluffy finish.
Prepping the coat before clipping is key
Before clipping your dog, it's important to prepare their coat properly. A clean, knot-free coat allows the snap-on comb to glide through the fur smoothly, giving you a much more even finish.
Start by giving your dog a thorough brush with a slicker brush to remove any tangles, knots or mats. Once you've finished brushing, run a grooming comb through the coat to check for any knots you've missed. If the comb catches anywhere, go back over that area with the slicker brush until the comb glides through easily
Next, bathe your dog and dry their coat using a pet dryer. As you dry them, brush through the fur with your slicker brush at the same time. This helps straighten any curls or waves, leaving the coat fluffy and smooth. The straighter the coat, the more even and professional-looking your clip will be.
In the video below, I'll demonstrate the different snap-on comb lengths using my dog, Soda, so you can see the finish each one gives.
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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