The goal with the beveled foot style is consistent feet in shape and size. The bevels should flow smoothly into the undercarriage of the dog, almost creating a seamless flowing line. The upper edge of the bevel is at the discretion of the groomer, however, it needs to be consistent on all four feet.
Bevels on full coated dogs like the Cocker Spaniel or Lhasa Apso can be a challenge to get neat and tidy. The heavier the coat, the bigger the challenge. Keys to having the bevel come out well are based on sound coat prep before the trimming.
Trim the pads with a close cutting blade ranging from a #15 to a #40. Use a very light touch to clean the pads of long hair. Thoroughly line comb and brush every section of the feathering. Once the coat is free of mats and tangles, you can shape the feet into round, beveled circles or begin to neatly shape the outline of the undercarriage line.
On lighter coated dogs, start with the dog standing squarely on the table, comb all the fur straight down over the foot. Begin trimming a foot by forming a box around it with long straight shears. Bevel the shears so there will be an upward curve from the foot to the outer line of the coat.
Once you have a box, re-comb the fur and with long, curved shears, begin forming the round, beveled foot. Blend the bevels of the feet into the undercarriage line so it creates one continuous line.
For heavier coated dogs with coat all one length, begin by thoroughly combing the coat down while the dog stands squarely on the table.
Begin to outline the shape of the flowing undercarriage line starting at the center of the dog, work outward towards the rear and front of the dog. Let your shears glide along the tabletop to start setting the line.
Once the outline is established, lift and separate a section of coat from around each foot, allowing for a clearer view of the foot. Pick the foot up and lightly scissor around the edge of the foot. Set the foot back down, re-comb the coat.
Box in each foot first, then round and edge the foot. Drop the longer fur back into place and re-comb the coat. Check your line and re-trim if necessary. Repeat on all four feet.
Once the basic shape of the undercarriage is created, then create the beveled edge with curved shears, allowing the coat to clear the ground while adding neatness and flair to the overall outline.
Tips for Trimming the Bevels
- Comb and comb.
- Make sure the dog is standing up and square on the table while trimming the bevels.
- On really heavy coated dogs, once the basic shape of the foot is created, slide your fingers between the digits of the toes, pulling longer coat through to the foot pad. Re-comb and fluff the top of the foot. Trim the longer hair from between the digits level with the foot pad.
- Use long shears to start the shape. Once the basic shape is cut in, change to a shear that matches the size of the dog.
- Use an anti-static spray if the coat is fly-away.
