Dog Clipper Blade Size Chart: Coat Types & Cut Lengths
Choosing the correct clipper blade is one of the most important decisions in dog grooming. The blade determines how much coat remains, how smooth the finish looks, how efficiently the clipper moves through the hair and whether the process remains comfortable for the dog.
However, selecting a blade is not as simple as choosing a number.
A groomer must also consider the dog’s coat texture, coat condition, skin sensitivity, body area, clipping direction and desired style. A #5 finish-cut blade, for example, may create a smooth medium-short body finish on a clean, prepared coat, while a #5 skip-tooth blade behaves differently even though both leave a similar nominal length.
This dog clipper blade size chart explains the most common dog grooming blade numbers, their approximate cutting lengths in inches and millimetres, suitable coat types, body-area applications and important safety considerations.
Whether you are a professional groomer, grooming student or pet parent researching grooming tools, use this guide as a starting point and always check the specifications provided by the blade manufacturer before grooming.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Quick rule: In the common A5 detachable-blade system, a higher blade number generally produces a shorter cut. A #30 cuts closer than a #10, while a #4 leaves more coat than a #7.
What Do Dog Clipper Blade Numbers Mean?
Dog grooming blade numbers indicate the approximate length of coat that remains after clipping.
The numbering system may feel backwards at first:
- Higher numbers such as #30 and #40 produce extremely close finishes.
- Mid-range numbers such as #7, #5 and #4 leave progressively more coat.
- Longer blades such as #3¾FC, #5/8HT and #3/4HT create plush, longer finishes.
Blade labels may also include letters:
- F, FC or FT: Finish-cut or fine-tooth blade, depending on the brand.
- Skip-tooth: Usually shown as a plain #7, #5, #4 or #3¾ in detachable-blade ranges.
- HT: High-tooth or longer-finish blade.
- W: Wide blade, designed to cover a broader clipping area.
The exact terminology can vary between manufacturers, so the blade number should never be considered in isolation.
Is a #10 Blade Shorter Than a #7 Blade?
Yes. A #10 blade generally leaves approximately 1/16 inch or 1.5 mm of coat, while a #7 or #7FC blade leaves approximately 1/8 inch or 3.2 mm.
Although 10 is a higher number, it cuts closer.
Does a Bigger Blade Number Leave More Hair?
Usually not in the standard detachable-blade sequence. Higher blade numbers generally leave less hair.
However, speciality names such as #3¾, #5/8HT and attachment-comb numbers follow different naming systems. Always refer to the stated cutting length in inches or millimetres instead of relying only on the number.
Dog Clipper Blade Size Chart in Inches and Millimetres
The following dog grooming blade chart provides commonly listed nominal cutting lengths. The finished result can vary slightly according to the brand, coat texture, clipping direction and grooming technique.
| Blade size | Approximate cut length | Blade or tooth type | Common professional use | Important note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #40 | 1/100 in / 0.25 mm | Extremely close | Veterinary preparation and specialised detail work | Professional or veterinary use |
| #30 | 1/50 in / 0.5 mm | Very close | Beneath attachment combs, selected paw and foot work | Very close if used directly |
| #15 | 3/64 in / 1.2 mm | Close detail blade | Poodle faces, feet and precise detail work | Assess skin sensitivity |
| #10 | 1/16 in / 1.5 mm | General close blade | Sanitary areas, paw pads and clean-face work | Common salon essential |
| #9 | 5/64 in / about 2 mm | Smooth short blade | Sporting patterns and short body work | Check manufacturer sizing |
| #8½ | 7/64 in / about 2.8 mm | Short-finish blade | Terrier and sporting patterns | Used less commonly than #7FC |
| #7 / #7FC | 1/8 in / 3.2 mm | Skip-tooth or finish-cut | Short body clips and selected coat removal | Choose the correct tooth pattern |
| #5 / #5FC | 1/4 in / 6.3 mm | Skip-tooth or finish-cut | Medium-short body finish | Popular all-round body length |
| #4 / #4FC | 3/8 in / 9.5 mm | Skip-tooth or finish-cut | Longer pet trims and plush finishes | Requires good coat preparation |
| #3¾ / #3¾FC | 1/2 in / 13 mm | Skip-tooth or finish-cut | Medium-long plush body finish | Useful for softer pet trims |
| #5/8HT | 5/8 in / 16 mm | Longer-finish blade | Longer puppy-style trims | Best on clean, straight coat |
| #3/4HT | 3/4 in / 19 mm | Long-finish blade | Long blade finish | Requires thorough preparation |
Chart caption: Dog clipper blade size chart showing common dog grooming blade numbers and approximate finish lengths in inches and millimetres.
Andis AGC Super 2 Brushless Clipper (Burgundy)
Andis AGC Super 2 Brushless Clipper (Royal Blue)
Andis Ultra Edge Detachable Blade, Size 10
Andis Ultra Edge Detachable Blade, Size 30
Andis 7-Piece Animal Clip Comb Set
Andis Ultra Edge Blade, Size 7FC
Why the Final Length May Look Different
A blade’s stated measurement is a guide rather than a guarantee. The final finish may change because of:
- Coat texture and density
- Curly, flat or off-standing hair
- Clipping with or against coat growth
- Coat preparation and drying
- Pressure applied during clipping
- Blade condition and sharpness
- Attachment-comb flex
- Individual manufacturer specifications
Test the blade on a small, less-visible section before completing the entire body.
Does Clipping Direction Change the Finish Length?
Yes. Clipping direction can significantly affect the result. Cutting against the natural direction of coat growth generally creates a shorter, sharper finish. Cutting with the coat growth usually leaves a softer, slightly longer result.
| Clipping direction | Likely result | Common application | Main consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Against coat growth | Shorter and more defined | Close or crisp body finish | May show clipper lines more easily |
| With coat growth | Longer and softer | Natural-looking pet trims | May require additional passes |
| Across coat growth | Blended or corrective finish | Swirls and uneven growth patterns | Requires control and experience |
| Repeated passes | Progressively shorter result | Finishing uneven areas | Can increase irritation and heat exposure |
The same blade can therefore create noticeably different finishes on two dogs, or even on different sections of the same dog.
How to Choose a Blade by Dog Coat Type
Breed can provide useful context, but coat type and condition are more important than the breed name alone.
Two Shih Tzus may need different tools if one has a straight, well-maintained coat and the other has a dense, tangled coat. Similarly, a Doodle’s coat may be loose and wavy, tightly curled or heavily compacted.
Blade Recommendations by Coat Type
| Coat type | Coat characteristics | Suggested starting options | Suitable finish | Grooming considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short and smooth | Flat, close coat with little length | #10 for selected detail work | Sanitary or localised trimming | Full-body clipping is often unnecessary |
| Long and silky | Straight or slightly wavy coat | #4FC, #5FC, #7FC or attachment comb | Long to short pet trim | Coat must be clean, dry and combed |
| Curly or wool | Dense curls with strong coat lift | #4FC, #5FC, #3¾FC or attachment comb | Plush, lamb or puppy-style trim | Straight drying improves consistency |
| Wire coat | Coarse outer coat with texture | #7FC or #5FC for a pet clip | Short practical pet finish | Hand stripping may better preserve texture |
| Thick or dense coat | Heavy coat with substantial volume | #5FC, #4FC or longer comb | Medium or longer body finish | Use a suitable high-torque clipper |
| Double coat | Topcoat with insulating undercoat | Usually de-shedding rather than clipping | Natural coat maintenance | Avoid routine full-body shaving |
| Matted or neglected coat | Tangled, compacted or pelted hair | Professional assessment required | Welfare-led safe removal | Never force a blade under tight mats |
Long, Silky Coats
For Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Maltese and similar coat types, commonly selected options include:
- #4FC for approximately 9.5 mm
- #5FC for approximately 6.3 mm
- #7FC for approximately 3.2 mm
- Attachment combs for longer puppy or teddy-bear finishes
Long blades and attachment combs work best when the coat has been bathed, completely dried, straightened and combed through to the skin.
Curly and Wool Coats
Poodles, Bichons and many Doodles can support a wide variety of lengths.
A #10 or #15 may be used for clean-face or sanitary work, while #4FC and #5FC blades create practical shorter body finishes. For a longer puppy cut, a #30 blade beneath a compatible attachment comb is a common professional setup.
The curl must be lifted and straightened during drying if an even result is expected.
Wire Coats
Many wire-coated breeds are traditionally hand stripped to preserve colour and texture. Clipping can soften the coat over time.
Where a practical pet trim is preferred, a #7FC or #5FC may be selected for the body, depending on the requested length and coat condition.
Should Double-Coated Dogs Be Shaved?
Healthy double-coated dogs should not normally be shaved simply because the weather is warm or the dog is shedding.
Bathing, brushing, de-shedding tools and high-velocity drying are generally more suitable for regular coat maintenance.
Clipping may be considered when medically necessary, when severe matting affects welfare or when a veterinarian or experienced professional recommends it. The potential effect on coat regrowth, texture and skin exposure should be explained before proceeding.
Which Blade Should Be Used for Each Body Area?
Different body areas require different levels of control. A blade suitable for the back may be unsafe around thin ear leather, loose armpit skin or the groin.
| Body area | Common blade option | Typical result | Safety consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanitary area | #10 | Close, hygienic trim | Stretch loose skin gently |
| Paw pads | #10; #15 or #30 for experienced groomers | Removes hair between and around pads | Keep the blade flat |
| Poodle face | #10 or #15 | Clean-face finish | Consider skin sensitivity |
| Poodle feet | #15 or #30 for trained groomers | Close clean feet | Close blades require precision |
| Body—short | #7FC | Approximately 3.2 mm | Monitor heat and skin folds |
| Body—medium-short | #5FC | Approximately 6.3 mm | Useful salon body length |
| Body—longer | #4FC or #3¾FC | Approximately 9.5–13 mm | Coat preparation is essential |
| Armpits and groin | Often #10 | Close detail work | High-risk loose-skin areas |
| Ears | Depends on breed and style | Clean or patterned finish | Support thin ear leather |
| Longer pet trim | Attachment comb over compatible blade | Controlled long finish | Coat must be fully combed |
A #10 is one of the most useful blades in a professional grooming kit, but even a commonly used blade can cause irritation or injury when used with excessive pressure, poor skin control or insufficient temperature checks.
Blade Recommendations for Different Size Dogs
The size of the dog does not automatically decide the cut length. A small and a large dog may both receive a #5FC body trim.
Dog size mainly affects blade width, handling, clipper power, efficiency and control.
| Dog size | Examples | Practical blade approach | Tool-width consideration | Main priority |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toy and small | Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese, Shih Tzu, Chihuahua | Standard A5 blades and controlled detail blades | Standard or narrow blades offer precision | Control around small contours |
| Medium | Cocker Spaniel, Schnauzer, French Bulldog | Standard A5 blade range covers most salon work | Standard width is usually efficient | Match blade to coat and pattern |
| Large | Golden Retriever, Labrador, Standard Poodle, large Doodle | Standard or wide blades depending on coat and service | Wide blades can reduce passes | Efficiency without sacrificing control |
| Giant | Bernese Mountain Dog, Newfoundland, Great Dane | Wide blades for suitable body clipping; detail blades for sensitive areas | High-torque clipper may be helpful | Coat preparation and safe handling |
| Any dog with loose skin | Senior dogs, dogs with folds or weight loss | Use controlled finish blades with careful skin management | Standard blade may offer better precision | Safety before speed |
Wide dog grooming blades can be valuable when clipping large, flat body areas. However, the wider cutting surface may be less convenient around tight curves, legs and sensitive zones.
Skip-Tooth vs Finish-Cut Blades
The difference between a skip-tooth and finish-cut blade is the tooth arrangement, not necessarily the stated finish length.
A #7 skip-tooth blade and a #7FC finish-cut blade may both have a nominal finish of approximately 3.2 mm, but they feed and finish the coat differently.
| Feature | Skip-tooth blade | Finish-cut blade | Attachment comb |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tooth design | Alternating or widely spaced teeth | Even, closely spaced teeth | Comb fitted over a compatible blade |
| Primary purpose | Feeding bulky or rough coat | Producing a smooth, even finish | Creating longer controlled lengths |
| Finish quality | More textured or rough | Smooth and polished | Soft, longer finish |
| Coat preparation | Used for specific professional applications | Best on clean, dry coat | Requires completely prepared coat |
| Risk level | Higher risk around folds and thin skin | More controlled tooth pattern | Can snag in tangled coat |
| Common examples | #7, #5, #4 skip-tooth | #7FC, #5FC, #4FC | Stainless-steel or snap-on combs |
| Best user | Experienced professional | Professional or trained user | Trained user on prepared coat |
When Should a Skip-Tooth Blade Be Used?
Skip-tooth blades can help feed certain bulky, rough or difficult coats. However, their wider tooth spacing can catch loose skin, ear edges, nipples, folds and thin tissue.
They should not be described as safer for sensitive skin. Skip-tooth blades are best reserved for trained groomers who understand skin control, blade angle and coat assessment.
When Should a Finish-Cut Blade Be Used?
Finish-cut blades have even teeth and are designed to leave a smoother result. They are commonly selected for final body clipping on clean, dry and properly prepared coats.
For most pet trims, a finish-cut blade is the more predictable option.
Which Blade Should You Use for a Matted Coat?
There is no universal “best clipper blade for matted dog hair.”
The safest blade depends on:
- How tightly the mat sits against the skin
- Whether the skin is pulled into the mat
- The location of the matting
- The dog’s behaviour and comfort
- Coat moisture, infection or irritation
- Whether a blade can pass beneath the mat without force
Use the longest safe blade that passes comfortably under the coat. Never force a blade beneath tight matting, and never slide scissors blindly between a mat and the skin.
Stop the groom and seek veterinary guidance when you notice wounds, bleeding, severe inflammation, moisture, infection, intense pain or other medical concerns.
Severely pelted coats should be handled by an experienced groomer or veterinarian. Removing a pelt can reveal hidden skin problems and requires continuous skin monitoring.
Blade Length vs Attachment Comb Length
Attachment combs, also called clipper guards, fit over a compatible short blade to create longer finishes.
They are useful for puppy cuts, teddy-bear trims, longer Doodle styles and salon finishes where the owner wants more coat left than a standard detachable blade provides.
Dog Grooming Attachment Comb Size Chart
| Attachment comb length | Approximate metric length | Typical finish | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/8 inch | 3 mm | Very short comb finish | Short practical pet trims |
| 1/4 inch | 6 mm | Short plush finish | Short puppy-style trims |
| 3/8 inch | 10 mm | Medium finish | Body and leg blending |
| 1/2 inch | 13 mm | Plush medium finish | Teddy and puppy trims |
| 5/8 inch | 16 mm | Longer plush finish | Curly and wool coats |
| 3/4 inch | 19 mm | Long finish | Longer body styling |
| 7/8 inch | 22 mm | Very long finish | Prepared coat with good structure |
| 1 inch | 25 mm | Extra-long finish | Full, fluffy styling |
Should Attachment Combs Be Used Over a #10 or #30 Blade?
Both may be suitable, depending on the attachment-comb system.
A #30 blade often provides clean feeding beneath professional stainless-steel combs. However, it leaves an extremely close finish if the comb lifts, slips or detaches.
A #10 may provide a little more margin and is specified by some comb manufacturers.
Before use:
- Confirm that the comb fits the blade securely.
- Check whether the system is designed for a standard or wide blade.
- Bathe, dry, straighten and comb the coat completely.
- Test the setup on a small section.
- Stop if the comb snags or pushes the coat.
Attachment combs should never be forced through tangled, damp or compacted hair.
What Is an A5 Detachable Blade?
An A5-style detachable-blade system allows the groomer to remove one complete blade and replace it with another size.
This makes it possible to move quickly between close detail work, body clipping and longer finishing blades without changing the entire clipper.
| Blade system | How it works | Common use | Compatibility note |
|---|---|---|---|
| A5 detachable | Complete blade swaps in multiple sizes | Professional full-body grooming | Check clipper and blade compatibility |
| Wide detachable | Broader cutting surface | Large dogs and broad body areas | Requires compatible wide system |
| 5-in-1 adjustable | One blade adjusts through close settings | Face, feet, sanitary and light clipping | Uses model-specific combs |
| Fixed consumer blade | Blade is built into a specific clipper | Basic home maintenance | Limited blade interchangeability |
| T-blade or trimmer blade | Wider detail cutting head | Edging and precision work | Usually model-specific |
Many professional A5 detachable clipper blades fit several major clipper brands, but not every detachable blade is universal.
Check the exact clipper model, hinge system, blade drive, standard or wide format and attachment-comb compatibility before purchasing.
How to Use Dog Grooming Blades Safely
Correct blade selection is only one part of safe clipping.
1. Assess the Coat and Skin
Check for matting, lumps, wounds, skin folds, parasites, moisture, inflammation and painful areas before switching on the clipper.
2. Confirm the Desired Finish
Clarify the requested body length, face style, leg length, sanitary trim and whether the finish should look natural or close.
3. Prepare the Coat
Long blades and attachment combs require a clean, dry, straight and completely detangled coat. Poor preparation creates uneven results and unnecessary pulling.
4. Test the Blade
Clip a small, inconspicuous section before committing to the full groom.
5. Keep the Blade Flat
Do not point the blade teeth or corners into the skin. Use controlled strokes and support loose areas.
6. Monitor Blade Temperature
Clipper blades heat up through friction. Check the blade regularly and rotate between clean, oiled blades when necessary.
Never continue clipping with a blade that feels uncomfortably hot.
7. Clean and Oil the Blade
Remove trapped hair, clean the blade with an approved product, dry it properly and apply clipper blade oil according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Common Blade-Selection Mistakes
Avoid these frequent errors:
- Assuming a higher number leaves more hair
- Confusing skip-tooth and finish-cut blades
- Using the same blade recommendation for every coat
- Forcing blades beneath tight mats
- Using attachment combs on unprepared coat
- Using close blades over folds or irritated skin
- Shaving healthy double coats without a valid reason
- Ignoring clipping direction
- Continuing with a dull or hot blade
- Failing to oil and clean blades
- Assuming every A5 blade fits every clipper
- Promising an exact finish without testing the coat
Quick Blade Selector
| Desired result | Suggested starting option |
|---|---|
| Very close professional detail work | #30 or #40 where appropriate and only with suitable training |
| Sanitary trim | #10 |
| Paw-pad work | #10; closer options for experienced groomers |
| Short body finish | #7FC |
| Medium-short body finish | #5FC |
| Longer body finish | #4FC or #3¾FC |
| Plush blade finish | #3¾FC, HT blade or suitable attachment comb |
| Puppy or teddy trim | Attachment comb over a compatible blade |
| Large-dog body efficiency | Wide blade in the required finish length |
| Matted coat | Professional assessment and the longest safe blade that passes beneath the mat |
| Healthy double coat | Brush, de-shed, bathe and dry rather than automatically shaving |
Frequently Asked Questions
What do dog clipper blade numbers mean?
Blade numbers indicate the approximate amount of coat left after clipping. In the standard detachable-blade sequence, higher numbers generally cut closer. A #10 leaves approximately 1.5 mm, while a #4 leaves approximately 9.5 mm.
Which dog clipper blade leaves 1/4 inch?
A #5 or #5FC blade generally leaves approximately 1/4 inch or 6.3 mm. The plain #5 is commonly a skip-tooth blade, while #5FC or #5F identifies a finish-cut version.
Which blade leaves 3/8 inch?
A #4 or #4FC commonly leaves approximately 3/8 inch or 9.5 mm. The finish-cut version produces a smoother result on a properly prepared coat.
What blade is best for a puppy cut?
A puppy cut is not one fixed length. A #4FC or #3¾FC can create a shorter plush finish, while attachment combs are used for longer puppy and teddy trims.
What blade should be used for a sanitary trim?
A #10 blade is commonly used for sanitary trimming. Keep the blade flat, stretch loose skin carefully and use light pressure.
Can a #30 blade be used directly on a dog?
A #30 blade may be used for specific professional detail work, but it leaves approximately 0.5 mm and can increase the risk of irritation or injury. It is often used beneath attachment combs.
What is the difference between a skip-tooth and finish-cut blade?
A skip-tooth blade has wider, alternating teeth that can feed a bulky coat but require greater caution. A finish-cut blade has evenly spaced teeth and produces a smoother finish.
Can attachment combs be used over a #10 or #30 blade?
Yes, depending on the attachment-comb system and manufacturer’s specifications. The comb must fit securely and the coat must be clean, dry and fully detangled.
Which blade is best for a matted dog?
There is no single blade suitable for every matted coat. A trained groomer should assess the matting and use the longest blade that passes safely beneath it without force.
Should double-coated dogs be shaved?
Healthy double coats should not usually be shaved for routine shedding or summer maintenance. Brushing, de-shedding, bathing and high-velocity drying are generally more appropriate.
Choose the Right Blade for Every Coat and Finish
The best blade size for dog grooming depends on more than the blade number. Consider the finish length, coat texture, coat condition, body area, tooth pattern, clipping direction, dog size and clipper compatibility before beginning.
When uncertain, start with a longer option. You can always shorten the coat after testing, but you cannot restore length once it has been removed.
Ready to Build a More Versatile Grooming Kit?
Explore ABK Grooming’s professional dog grooming blades, Andis pet clippers, A5 detachable blades, wide blades, attachment combs and blade-care essentials for controlled, efficient and salon-ready grooming.
Whether you need a dependable #10 blade for detail work, a #5FC for practical body trims, a wide blade for larger dogs or a professional attachment-comb set for longer finishes, choose grooming tools designed to support precision, comfort and consistent results.
Shop professional clipper blades and grooming tools at ABK Grooming.
Janhavi Dhuldhoya
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