Dog grooming words, translated.
You do not need to speak like a groomer to ask for a good haircut. Use this glossary to understand the conversation, then describe the visible result you want.
Length and tools
- Blade length
- A technical clipper specification chosen by the groomer. Owners can usually communicate more clearly by describing the visible amount of coat they want left.
- Comb attachment
- A guard used over a clipper blade to leave more coat than a close blade alone. Coat preparation and texture affect the finish.
- Hand scissoring
- Shaping the coat with scissors rather than relying mainly on clippers. It can create soft transitions and detailed silhouettes.
- Outline trim
- Tidying the outer edges of a coat without shortening the entire body to one close length.
Coat condition
- Matting
- Dense tangles that have tightened close to the skin. Severe matting can limit which cosmetic styles are comfortable or safe.
- Line brushing
- Working through the coat in small sections so the brush reaches from the ends toward the skin instead of smoothing only the surface.
- Comb check
- Following brushing with a metal comb to find small tangles that the brush may have missed.
- De-shedding
- Removing loose undercoat through coat-appropriate bathing, drying, brushing, and tools. It is not the same as shaving.
Shape and finish
- Teddy bear face
- A rounded pet face with softened cheeks and muzzle. The exact shape varies with coat texture and the reference used.
- Clean face
- A closely clipped face seen in some poodle grooming directions. Confirm the exact areas with the groomer.
- Top knot
- Longer head coat shaped or gathered above the eyes. It needs regular combing and comfortable, correctly placed ties.
- Beveled feet
- Feet shaped so the lower leg coat curves neatly around them, creating a polished transition.
- Sanitary trim
- Careful shortening around hygiene areas. The groomer chooses a safe extent for the individual pet.
- Blending
- Softening the transition between lengths so separate sections of the groom look intentional and connected.