There is a lot of scissor work to be done on a Poodle and only practice will allow the groomer to achieve a smooth, almost satin finish to the well-cared-for coat. Finishing is an art that some excel at more than others. Different scissors give different finishes and the groomer must try several pairs of scissors in order to find the pair right for them.Most sales outlets are happy to help you choose the right type. Scissors vary in price, and to sustain the outstanding presentation that some groomers achieve it is imperative to buy high-quality equipment, such as clippers, scissors, shampoo and finishing sculpture conditioner. It really does make a difference and the investment is worthwhile.

Finishing is achieved by literally skimming over the coat with the scissors accurately placed to edge the coat. As the Poodle coat grows and moves constantly, and it has a natural tendency to curl despite straightening conditioners, this finish will not last, but still the dog will look expertly smart.

Good scissoring is an art. It is fascinating to watch groomers from different parts of the world scissoring in their own style to achieve perfection. If you visit grooming seminars, you will be able to see this interesting skill in action, and all the groomers’ different styles.

Some fluff the hair outwards and let it fall before commencing scissoring, while some comb it upwards. Some will say one way is the only correct way, but I have seen dogs turned out to sheer perfection both ways. The same applies to how you hold a pair of scissors. Some use thumb and index, some thumb and middle finger, while others use thumb and fourth finger. I try all ways, and I don’t see any difference! However, I do like scissors with a guard.

The Clipping Process

With all styles, the Poodle will need to have its feet, face and tail clipped. We will deal with this first. There are certain rules to observe:

• Apart from the feet, it is always safer to use clippers with the growth of coat to prevent rashing or grazing the skin.
• Where the face is concerned, always clip away from the eye.
• Unless you are experienced using clippers, it is quite likely that you will need time to get around all the delicate clipped parts of the Poodle, so use clipper lubricant frequently, every 10 minutes or less, and check the blade of the clipper for heat by putting it on your face. As soon as it feels more than a little warm, change the blade. Dogs have been burned with hot blades and it takes a long time for them to regain their confidence. My personal preference is for Aesculap blades.