While taking your Labradoodle to the groomers is definitely the easiest option for maintaining their beautiful coats, it is certainly not cheap! The good news is you can do everything that a groomer can do in the comfort of your own home (or your back yard to minimize the mess), and a good set of clippers can make all the difference. If you’re trying to pick out the best clippers for Labradoodles, this article is here to help. We cover everything from details on blade types to reviews of owner-recommended clippers. We even provide tips and tricks for keeping your Doodle’s coat in top condition.
Our Top 4 Best Clippers That Groomers Swear By
Reading this on the go? No problem. Here is the key information – our best picks and the links to where you can buy them. Got a bit more time? Take a look at our handy buying tips, and in-depth reviews included below.
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Pick #1:
Andis AGC Super 2-Speed Professional Animal Clippers. Alternates between 3400 and 4400 SPM for a speedy all-over cut that can remove the thickest of fur and even get to all those tricky-to-reach places.
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Pick #2:
Wahl Arco Cordless Pet Clipper Kit. Wireless technology is combined with nifty speeds of 5500 SPM is this excellent clipper. The 5-in-1 blade offers a variety of lengths for your pet’s coat.
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Pick #3:
Andis Excel Pro-Animal 5-Speed Detachable Blade Clipper Kit. Get that professionally groomed look with this powerful 5-speed clipper that reaches 4500 SPM yet provides users with plenty of control and 25% more blade torque.
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Pick #4:
Wahl Figura Lithium Cordless Pet Clipper. Excellent power and battery time, both are offered by this stylish, cordless clipper, which delivers 6000 SPM for up to 90 minutes at a time.
Different Types of Clippers
The great thing about clippers is there is much less of a variety than some other dog accessories – take brushes, for instance. This makes finding the best one for your Labradoodle a piece of cake as long as you know what to look out for.
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Here are the three main types you will have to choose from:
Corded Clippers
These are the clippers that plug directly into a power socket. Most professional groomers will likely use this type as there are no issues with running out of juice halfway through a groom. They are functional, durable, and often offer more deluxe features than other varieties. Of course, the downside is that you have to be in close proximity to a power socket and need to be careful of the cord when using the clippers.
Cordless Clippers
A popular alternative, cordless clippers either take batteries or are rechargeable. The advantages of these are that you can use them anywhere – great for pet owners with no designated grooming room and novice groomers who won’t get themselves and their dog tangled up in the cord. The disadvantages are that you will need to remember to charge them up before use, and they are often less hardy than the corded kinds, so you may have to replace them sooner.
Pet Trimmers
Perfect for touch-ups in between clips, pet trimmers are great for dealing with over-long hair around the face, feet, and bottom. An added bonus of pet trimmers is there are often much quieter than regular clippers. This means your extra sensitive pal won’t get spooked by them when you’re getting up close and personal. Depending on their coat type, they are unlikely to be suitable for dealing with hair on the back and belly, though.
Best Clippers for Labradoodles: Buyer’s Guide
As clippers seem to be pretty generic, it can be tempting to buy the first ones you come across. However, there is some variation in features that you do need to look out for. These can make dealing with your pet’s coat much less of a headache than it otherwise might be. A few of these are:
Detachable Blades
Most often seen in high-end clippers (which doesn’t automatically mean expensive), detachable blades enable the user to pick and choose precisely what length they want their pup’s coat to be. This also makes both the blades and the clippers easier to clean.
While most clippers come with a #10 blade as standard, which will cut your Doodle’s coat to around 1/16th of an inch from their body, there are plenty of other sizes to choose from. Generally speaking, the lower the number, the longer it will leave your pet’s coat. Labradoodle experts recommend blade numbers #10 or #3F, #5F, and #7F as the best for the breed.
A handy alternative are clipper attachments, which are plastic or metal guards that can be slipped over the edge to vary the length of the cut. The benefit is you won’t need to fork out on additional blades – although you will likely need to replace the one you have sooner.
Additionally, there are different types of blades. Two of the most popular are full-tooth or ‘finishing’ blades. The teeth on these are all the same length for an impeccable looking cut. Skip-tooth blades, on the other hand, alternate short and long teeth for a more textured effect.
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Variable Speeds
Measured in strokes per minute (SPM), clipper speeds are a fundamental feature. You need to ensure that you are buying a product that can effectively deal with your pup’s coat. The coarser or curlier their hair/fur, the higher the number needs to be. As Labradoodles tend to have quite thick coats, they will need 3500 strokes per minute (SPM) or higher.
However, high speeds are not great for dealing with delicate areas such as the face, legs, belly, and tail. So, while not a necessity, clippers with different speed settings are extremely handy for dealing with all parts of your Doodle. Otherwise, you might need to use additional equipment such as scissors or trimmers.
Noise and Vibration
Don’t forget to factor your pup’s comfort level into the equation. Even the sturdiest of dogs could get a bit unnerved by clippers louder than that infamous Led Zepplin concert. You wouldn’t want to put them off grooming for life.
Good quality clippers aim for an optimal balance of power and quiet. While it would be impossible to eliminate either noise or vibration from the equation entirely – especially at the higher settings – the clippers’ structure and design can have a significant impact. Heavy, durable ones tend to be the quietest and smoothest.
Ergonomics
Getting clippers that feel comfortable in your hands is another vital consideration when deciding which ones to purchase. You will likely be using them for long periods when dealing with your Doodle’s coat, and you don’t want to have issues with hand pain and strain.
You also want to have a good grip on the clippers to make it less likely that you will drop them or that they will slip in your grasp leading to a bad haircut, or worse – injuries to your dog. Here the shape, balance, and weight of the clippers are all critical.
Better clippers curve to match the contours of your hand, make use of anti-slip grips to allow you to keep a firm hold of them even at top speeds. Lighter clippers are also much better for maneuverability – although these ones may vibrate more.
Best Clippers for Labradoodles: Reviews
Andis AGC2 UltraEdge 2-Speed Professional Animal Clippers
A popular brand, Andis leads up most review lists when it comes to canine clippers, and it’s clear to see why. These dual-speed clippers are perfect for dealing with just about any dog coat out there. You can alternate between 3400 and 4400 SPM as you navigate your way around your pup’s back, belly, feet, and face for a smooth and even finish.
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Whichever setting you choose, these super-quiet clippers will make even the most sensitive of pooches feel cool as a cucumber during grooming. The 14ft heavy-duty cord allows you to move around as much as needed without getting all tangled up.
Pros
These high-rated clippers tick all the boxes for speed, style, and usability. They are effective, quiet, and comfortable to hold.
Cons
These clippers don’t have quite the level of power as others on the list, but the dual-speed makes them wonderfully versatile.
Wahl Arco Cordless Pet Clipper Kit
Another big name brand in grooming, and for good reason, Wahl is a firm favorite among Doodle parents. Their Arco cordless clippers look great, feel great and do a great job on smooth, wiry, and curly coats alike. Cool and quiet, these clippers offer an impressive 5500 SPM and have up to 80 minutes of battery run time.
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The inclusion of a 5-in-1 blade (#9, #10, #15, #30, #40) allows you to do a full-body clipping on your fur baby without having to purchase additional blades. While the lightweight design of the clippers means they are comfortable to hold and use for long periods without causing hand fatigue.
Pros
These handy clippers offer precision cutting and excellent versatility. Their lack of a cord makes it easier to reach tough spots.
Cons
The limited battery time may be an issue for some owners. However, two batteries are included, so double this time is a mere battery change away.
Andis Excel Pro-Animal 5-Speed Detachable Blade Clipper Kit
For truly superb results, Andis’ Excel clippers are explicitly designed for use by pros. This makes them perfect if you have more than one pup to contend with. The variable speeds, maxing out at 4500 SPM, make them great for trying out different cuts and styles and perfect for dealing with even the most challenging coats.
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As with the AGC, the 14ft cord allows for more movement. For corded clippers, these ones are relatively lightweight, which makes them easier to use for longer. The ergonomics are further enhanced by the anti-slip, soft-grip handle. You’ll be more than happy to keep going until you’re done.
Pros
The five different speeds are perfect for all areas of your pet’s coat, meaning you won’t have to fiddle around with scissors.
Cons
Premium level comes at a premium price, but these clippers will undoubtedly go the distance.
Wahl Figura Lithium Cordless Pet Clipper
With an incredibly impressive 6000 SPM, the Figura clippers outperform their sister product. The enhanced speed means that it can more effortlessly deal with long, rough, and tangle-prone coats. Aside from that, they offer the same super-useful 5-in-1 blade option #9, #10, #15, #30, and #40, quiet operation, and cordless efficiency.
A further notable difference is that these clippers have a lithium-ion battery rather than 2 NiMH ones. This means that they have both a longer running time and a quicker recharge one. The extra-handy 10-minute quick charge feature is great when you need just a little more time to finish off a cut.
Pros
These powerful, versatile clippers are durable, easy to use, and cool-running. Their slightly longer battery life makes them better for harder-work coats.
Cons
The high speed makes them great for the back and body, but you might need something else for sensitive areas.
Tips for Grooming Your Labradoodle
When it comes to brushing your Labradoodle, you’re probably well-versed in their likes and dislikes. They may love a little focus on the back but start to get skittish when you focus on their legs, for instance. This knowledge will serve you well when attempting to use clippers for the first time. Here are some other tips that can help:
- Watch videos of professional groomers in action. This can give you some insights into the kind of cut you want to do and how you are going to achieve it. Thank goodness for YouTube!
- Allow your dog time to get comfortable. Give them a chance to check the clippers out, give them a sniff. Turn the clippers on and let them listen to it for a while. Fuss your pup and give them a few treats to help calm their nerves.
- Bathe your dog before clipping them. Dealing with a clean coat is much easier. However, you need to make sure that they are completely dry through before you begin. Give them a good brush with a slicker or pin brush to ensure that you remove all the tangles you can. See below for our brush recommendations.
See also:
— How to Bathe a Dog: Ultimate Guide to Bathing Doodles
— The Ultimate Labradoodle Brush Guide: The Best Brush For Labradoodle - Start with a longer blade. #5 is a good shout for a first going over. This is especially the case while you are still getting the hang of things. Cut in the direction of growth for an easy, less painful experience for your pup and for you.
- Take breaks. This is especially important if your dog starts to get a little upset or restless. Pause for a quick breather for you both, give them a little praise for being a good girl or boy, let the clippers cool down a bit, take a deep breath and begin again.
- Don’t worry if your first attempt isn’t perfect. You probably never took a doggy hairdresser course. Luckily your Doodle isn’t going to complain about looking a bit silly for a while. Depending on how badly it went, you might want to get them a coat for walkie times, though…
Labradoodle Coat Care: Frequently Asked Questions
Professional groomers often need to use their clippers multiple times a day and on an assortment of breeds. For this reason, they tend to opt for high-quality cord clippers with detachable blades. As a home groomer, you’re unlikely to need professional-level clippers unless you have lots of dogs to care for.
Shaving your dog is not recommended unless for medical reasons. If your pooch is seriously matted, it may be needed, but this is still a job best left to the experts. Take your dog to a professional groomer to avoid any issues or injuries. They can also provide tips to help you care for your pet’s coat. See also: Will My Doodle’s Double Coat be Ruined if It’s Shaved?
You can absolutely groom your Labradoodle yourself, and you definitely should. Regular brushing is imperative for this breed. Frequent trimming is also vital for reducing painful tangles and matting. Clipping is a little trickier to manage but is also doable with a bit of research, patience, practice, and of course, the best clippers for Labradoodles. See also: How to Groom a Doodle At Home: Online Course
While clippers made for people may be fine on a short-coated breed, they are unlikely to do the trick for your Doodle. The reason for this is they are not made for long hair or thick fur, and definitely not for the double coat your dog may have. They will likely end up pulling your dog’s hair, and the blade will undoubtedly dull much quicker.
The length you opt for will depend on a few factors, such as the type of coat that your Doodle has, how active he is, the time of year, and the climate you live in. It’s also very much about how you want your Doodle to look. When selecting a blade or blade setting, the higher the number, the shorter the final result will be.
This depends on coat type and temperature. Most Labradoodle owners opt to have their pup clipped, or at least trimmed every couple of months. This helps keep them cool and reduces shedding in those Doods who have inherited the Labrador Retriever double coat, and matting in the ones with Poodle fur.
You may have got a bit more than you bargained for when you first opted for a “low maintenance Labradoodle.” Caring for their coat can be an effort, especially if you let it grow long.
Learning to take care of your Doodle’s coat at home can save you $$$ at the groomers. It also helps to ensure that no well-meaning individual can Poodle your Doodle – unless, of course, that’s what you want…
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Labradoodle groomers: What do YOU think are the best clippers for Labradoodles? Let us know in the comments below!