Some breeds of dogs, such as Schnauzers, typically have their ears clipped smooth. Sometimes, we shave other dogs' ears smoothly to remove mats and tangles or simply to create a unique look.
Here are some tips to help you perform this routine grooming task safely.
Small trimmers are ideal tools for clipping ears because they are light, nimble, quiet, and have adjustable blades. If the pet has a thick, woolly coat, use a shorter blade, such as a #15 or 30, on the inside of the ear to achieve a clean, neat look. A #10 blade is a good choice if the coat is thin or sparse. If you use a regular clipper with snap-on blades, avoid using a #7 blade, skip-toothed blades, or any blade with widely spaced teeth because the edges of the ears can be nicked accidentally.
The outside of the ear can typically be clipped smooth using a slightly longer blade than was used on the inside so that it can be blended into the body coat more easily. Commonly, a #10 blade is used. Alternatively, a snap-on comb can be safely used for a more plush finish.
Safe blade tip - Hold the ear as flat as possible while you clip, supporting the skin with your fingers behind it and pressing the ear firmly against your fingers with your thumb. Start clipping at the inside center of the ear, working towards the edges.
Safe scissor tip - Once the ear is neatly clipped, it is time to tidy up the edges. The safest way to do this is with small, straight scissors. Brush the hair out and away from the skin, or use your thumb and fingers to lift it from the edge. Always scissor from the base of the ear towards the tip to prevent nicks. Hold the scissors very close to the edge of the ear leather to achieve a tidy finish along the ear's edges.
Pro Tip - Many dogs have a small flap of skin on the posterior lower edge of the ear. It is called Henry's Pocket, and it is wickedly easy to cut that funny bit of skin accidentally. To avoid doing so, make sure you can see it and clip from the center towards the edge of the ear, holding the skin flat.
You can safely create beautifully smooth, neat ears on your grooming dogs by paying attention to the tools you use and the methods you use them.
