How to Choose the Right Size Dog Grooming Scissors

Selecting the right dog grooming scissors size is one of the most important decisions a groomer can make. The right pair of scissors not only improves the finish of your grooms but also ensures comfort and safety for both you and the dog. With so many options, straight, curved, thinnier, chunkers, and left-handed grooming scissors, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.

This guide will help you understand how to choose the best size dog grooming scissors for different breeds, coat types, and grooming styles.

Why Scissor Size Matters in Dog Grooming

The length of your grooming scissors directly affects your control, efficiency, and finish. Shorter scissors offer precision and control for small areas like faces and paws, while longer blades are designed for speed and smooth, even lines across larger coats.

Typical grooming scissor lengths include:

• 6.5” – 7”: Best for small breeds, detailed work, and sensitive areas.
• 7.5” – 8”: Ideal for medium to large breeds, offering balance between control and coverage.
• 8.5” and above: Preferred by professionals for handling large dogs and achieving an even finish quickly.

Explore our full Scissors Collection to find a variety of blade lengths and styles.

Types of Dog Grooming Scissors

Choosing the right type of scissors is just as critical as selecting the right size. Each scissor style has its own strengths, drawbacks, and optimal use cases. Below is a more detailed breakdown:

Straight Scissors

Straight scissors (sometimes called “classic” or “linear” scissors) are the backbone of most grooming kits. They feature two straight blades that pass each other cleanly. Use them for:

• General body trimming & shaping – cutting lines on the back, sides, and legs
• Facial work (with shorter lengths)
• Finish & touch-ups – correcting edges or straight lines
• Precision work on tails, ears, and fringes

On Groomers World, you’ll find a wide variety of straight scissors crafted in different blade lengths for different tasks.

Groomers should be cautious when using straight scissors on curved surfaces such as the feet or face, as the blades can leave harsh, angular edges if not handled carefully.

Explore our full range of straight scissors for everyday trimming and precision work.

Curved Scissors

Curved scissors have gently or more aggressively arched blades. They are designed to match the contours of a dog’s body or limbs, allowing smoother, rounded lines. Ideal uses include:

• Rounding feet and paws
• Shaping the head, muzzle, and cheeks
• Creating softer transitions or finishes, especially on long or flowing coat breeds
• Blending curves on the legs and body for a more natural appearance

Curved Scissors reduce the risk of hard, blunt lines on rounded shapes; instead, the blade glides along the curve, allowing a more effortless sweep. Many groomers use both straight and curved Scissors to switch between structural and finishing passes.

Curved blades require some practice to use safely, particularly around sensitive areas like the paws, eyes, and ears. They are also less suited to long, straight cutting runs, as it can be harder to maintain alignment and consistent control over distance.

Shop our selection of curved scissors designed to shape and sculpt with ease

Thinning Scissors

Thinning scissors have teeth on one blade (or sometimes both), which allow them to remove some hair while leaving the rest intact. They don’t cut a full line; instead, they “thin out” sections. They are great for:

• Blending two lengths (e.g. body into legs)
• Reducing bulk in dense coats without leaving a straight scissor line
• Softening edges so transitions look more natural
• Fine-tuning finishing touches after the major trim is done

What to know about teeth & styles:

• Thinning scissors often have 30–46 teeth or more. The more teeth, the finer the cut and the softer the effect.
• Some are single-sided (teeth on one blade, flat on the other).
• Others are double-sided (teeth on both blades). These can be more forgiving and smoother in effect.
• Thinners are best used on dry, brushed hair, section by section and in moderation (too much thinning = patchiness).

Discover professional thinning scissors to blend, reduce bulk, and create natural finishes.

Chunker & Blender Scissors

Chunker and blender scissors are more aggressive texturising tools. They remove more hair in fewer snips, allowing you to rapidly reduce bulk. But they demand control and finesse to avoid creating harsh “notches” or visible lines.

Chunker Scissors :

These have wider gaps between teeth (less tooth count) and are built to “chunk out” sections of coat. Use them to:

• Quickly remove bulk from thick or curly coats
• Create structure or flow within the coat
• Rough-in shapes before finishing

However, because chunkers remove more hair, they can leave pronounced lines or jumps if not blended afterwards.

Blender Scissors:

Blenders are the middle ground, more moderate in removal than chunkers, but more aggressive than thinning scissors. They help smooth transitions, soften edges, and subtly texturise. Groomers frequently reach for blenders for finishing work after chunking or scissoring.

Be aware that overuse of chunkers without blending can leave obvious lines. Many experts recommend always following up with thinner or blending Scissors to refine.

Browse our chunker blender scissors for bulk removal and seamless blending.

How to Choose Dog Grooming Scissors by Breed & Coat Type

Here are some practical examples to guide your decision:

• Small breeds (Yorkshire Terriers, Shih Tzus): Opt for 6.5” – 7” straight or curved scissors for precision.
• Medium breeds (Cockapoos, Schnauzers): 7.5” scissors work well for body grooming, while thinning scissors help manage thick coats.
• Large breeds (Golden Retrievers, Standard Poodles): 8”+ scissors allow for speed and smoother finishes across large coat areas. Chunkers are also useful for managing heavy coats.

For professional quality, check out our Groomers World Scissors or premium Kenchii Scissors.

Left-Handed Groomers: Choosing the Right Fit

If you’re left-handed, investing in properly designed left-handed grooming scissors is essential for both comfort and safety. Using right-handed scissors in your left hand can lead to strain, poor control, and uneven cuts. To help you find the best options, we’ve put together a detailed guide on the best left-handed scissors for groomers.

Ergonomics & Comfort

The best size dog grooming scissors are not just about length, they should also feel comfortable in your hand. Look for:

• Ergonomic grooming scissors with offset handles to reduce wrist strain.
• Lightweight designs that won’t tire your hands during long grooming sessions.
• Finger rests for added stability and comfort.

Many professionals keep multiple pairs for different tasks. If you’re starting, consider a scissor set to cover all your needs.

Maintenance & Safety Tips

Once you’ve chosen the right scissors, proper care will keep them performing at their best:

• Clean and dry after every groom.
• Oil the pivot screw regularly.
• Store in a protective case to avoid damage.
• Sharpen professionally when needed, don’t attempt DIY sharpening.
• Always cut carefully around sensitive areas like ears, eyes, and paws.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right dog grooming scissors size depends on your breed focus, grooming style, and comfort. Whether you need precision with short blades or speed with longer scissors, investing in high-quality, ergonomic tools will make your grooming more efficient and enjoyable.

Dog Grooming Scissors Size – FAQ