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Best Dog Clippers For Small Dogs

Written by: Peter Laskay
Reviewed by: Amber LaRock
Last updated on:
best dog clippers for small dogs

Are you looking for the best dog clippers for small dogs? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this 2022 blog post, I will discuss some of the top dog clipper brands and models that are perfect for small dogs.

If you have a small dog breed, such as a Yorkshire Terrier, Chihuahua, Maltese, or Toy Poodle, then you’ll want to make sure you get dog clippers that work perfectly on tiny dogs.

With my many years of experience, I managed to review and test dozens of great products.

I found that for small dog breeds the Andis UltraEdge 2-speed model is the best choice. With its powerful, yet quiet motor and sharp blades, the grooming will be really straightforward for you and your little friend.

I’ll also provide tips on how to select the right clippers for your pet. So whether you’re a first-time dog owner or just looking for a new pair of clippers, read on for her advice!

Let’s get started!

What Are the Best Small Dog Clippers?

  1. Andis UltraEdge Super 2-Speed Detachable Blade Clipper Overall Best

  2. Wahl Lithium Ion Pro Series Cordless Animal ClipperRunner Up

  3. Andis Excel Pro-Animal 5-Speed ClipperBest Professional Option

  4. Oneisall Low Noise Rechargeable Dog ClippersBest Affordable Option

  5. Wahl Bravura Professional Dog ClipperBest Cordless Option

  6. Wahl Professional BravMini+ Dog ClipperBest for toy breeds and small-handed owners

A Comparison Of The Best Small Dog Clippers

Dog ClipperName And BenefitsPet Worshiper RatingWhere To Buy?
Overall Best
1. Andis UltraEdge Super 2-Speed Detachable Blade Clipper
1. Andis UltraEdge Super 2-Speed Detachable Blade Clipper

For those looking for the most reliable and durable option

  • High-quality detachable blade
  • Strong 2-speed motor
  • Quiet and cool
  • Durable
9.8
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Runner Up
2. Wahl Lithium Ion Pro Series Cordless Animal Clipper
2. Wahl Lithium Ion Pro Series Cordless Animal Clipper

If the overall best option is not available

  • Affordable
  • Many accessories come in the package
  • Great charge time-run time ratio
  • Suitable for all kinds of grooming tasks
8.5
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Best Professional Option
3. Andis Excel Pro-Animal 5-Speed Clipper
3. Andis Excel Pro-Animal 5-Speed Clipper

If you want to groom your dog like a real pro

  • Comfortable rubber grip
  • 5-speed powerful motor
  • Reliable detachable CeramicEdge blade
  • Cool color options
9.7
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Best Affordable Option
4. Oneisall Low Noise Rechargeable Dog Clippers
4. Oneisall Low Noise Rechargeable Dog Clippers

If you are on a tight budget

  • Affordable
  • Detachable blades
  • Corded and Cordless option
  • Ultra Quiet
9
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Best Cordless Option
5. Wahl Bravura Professional Dog Clipper
5. Wahl Bravura Professional Dog Clipper

If mobility and portability is important for you

  • Reliable, fast, and durable motor
  • Great run time and charge time ratio
  • Vast color range
  • Works while plugged in
9.1
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Best for toy breeds
6. Wahl Professional BravMini+ Dog Clipper
6. Wahl Professional BravMini+ Dog Clipper

If you have a really tiny little pup

  • Perfectly fits in anyone’s hand
  • Quiet
  • Reliable and fast motor
  • Impressive run time
8.5
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Best Dog Clippers For small Dogs – Detailed Reviews:

Whether you are a professional groomer or a home user, you should definitely buy the best grooming clipper tool. If you want something for your small pup, you should aim for a product that has a strong but quiet motor, sharp blades, and a non-bulky design.

Below you will find premium clippers that I recommend to everyone with a calm heart. In addition to the overall best, you will also find options gathered based on other criteria.

1. Andis UltraEdge Super 2-Speed Clipper – Overall Best


The Andis UltraEdge 2-speed model triumphs in many categories, but I also strongly recommend it for small dogs. Its motor is not only efficient but quiet, and with detachable blades, you can cut any coat type. 

Key features:

  • Blade type: Detachable UltraEdge blade (#10)

  • Colors: Burgundy, Blue, Green, Orange, Purple

  • Cord: Corded (14”)

  • Best for: All coat types and breeds

  • Speed: Two-speed, 3400-4400 SPM

  • Durability rating: 9.4

  • Ease of use: 9.4

  • Price range: $$$

The 2-speed rotary motor runs cool and quiet and can achieve 3400 and 4400 SPM, respectively. These two levels give you versatility, as lower SPM is great for sensitive parts, and you can use the fastest gear for bulk trimming. 

A single #10 detachable steel blade comes with the clipper, which is easy to replace and also simplifies cleaning processes. 

However, you will need to purchase other blades separately for additional sizes. The product is otherwise compatible with all Andis UltraEdge and CeramicEdge blades. 

This clipper is corded, which gives tremendous power to the rotary motor. For some, the design of the UltraEdge can be a bit bulky. In addition, the cord can be confusing for small breed dogs. 

In my experience, the clipper fits very well in hand, and with a bit of practice, it will be easy to maneuver your small pup’s body along with the cord. 

The UltraEdge clipper is a premium quality product. It shows in the price, but believe me, you will get what you pay for. Overall, this is a perfect option for small dog owners.

Pros

  • High-quality detachable blade
  • Wide range of colors
  • Strong 2-speed motor
  • Quiet and cool
  • Heavy-duty cord
  • Durable

Cons

  • Some may find it bulky
  • Pricey (but worth it)
  • Steel blades can heat up (but can cool down soon)
  • You need to purchase additional blades separately

Pet Worshiper Rating: 9.8


2. Wahl Lithium Ion Pro Series Cordless Animal Clipper – Runner Up


The Wahl Lithium Ion Pro is an excellent dog clipper that you can choose when the overall best option is out of stock. This product is affordable and a perfect choice for all types of dogs and coat types. 

Key features:

  • Blade type: One standard blade

  • Colors: Black, Silver

  • Cord: Corded and Cordless

  • Best for: All coat types and breeds

  • Speed: Single speed

  • Durability rating: 8.5

  • Ease of use: 8.8

  • Price range: $

The clipper has a single speed-level motor that cuts the hair of tiny dogs with adequate efficiency. 

I didn’t find any data on the exact SPM, but in my experience, the speed is good, so you don’t have a problem during the grooming session. 

The Wahl Lithium Ion Pro is powered by a lithium battery that can last up to two hours at full charge. This means more grooming sessions, so if you have more dogs at home, you might want to consider this product. 

However, there are some downsides to this clipper as well. Its design is quite bulky, which can be inconvenient for many. 

Especially if you have a very small toy breed dog, another major problem is the noise level. Unfortunately, this product is louder than the average dog clippers. 

However, the package includes some useful accessories such as guide combs (additional cut lengths are available), a blade brush, and blade oil. 

I think this Wahl product is not perfect, but it is excellent in the market in terms of value for money.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Many accessories come in the package
  • Great charge time-run time ratio
  • Suitable for all kinds of grooming tasks

Cons

  • Bulky and heavy
  • Louder than advertised
  • Not the best for really thick fur

Pet Worshiper Rating: 8.5


3. Andis Excel Pro-Animal 5-Speed – Best Professional Option


If you are looking for a dog clipper for your small breed dog that is sure to occur at professionals as well, consider Andis Excel Pro. Thanks to its multi-speed motor and sharp blade, any grooming task can be performed with this tool. 

Key features:

  • Blade type: Detachable UltraEdge blade (#10)

  • Colors: Blue, Burgundy

  • Cord: 14′ heavy-duty cord

  • Best for: All coats and breeds

  • Speed: 5-speed, 2500-4500 SPM

  • Other features: Cool and quiet, Works with 120V, Detachable blades, five-speed motor, 2500 to 4500 strokes per minute

  • Durability rating: 9.4/10

  • Ease of use: 9.4/10

  • Price range: $$$

Excel Pro has a vibrant range of colors. My favorite is Burgundy, of the five options, but I also recommend Confetti for those looking for some specialty. 

What is the strength of this clipper, however, is the speed. You can choose from five levels that vary the speed between 2500 and 4500 SPM. 

Well, I could call that real versatility. There is essentially no coat type that this Andis clipper would not cope with. 

In addition, the blade is not made of the previously mentioned steel material but ceramic. This blade type is sharp, efficient, and much less hot than the steel versions. This makes it ideal for use in small breeds with sensitive skin. 

Although the 14-inch cord makes the rotary engine very powerful, it can still be confusing for some smaller dogs. 

All in all, you can see that Andis Excel Pro is a high-quality premium product, which is also reflected in the price tag. However, if you are willing to invest in your home grooming kit, be sure to consider this product as well.

Pros

  • Comfortable rubber grip
  • CeramicEdge heats up more slowly
  • 5-speed powerful motor
  • Strong and efficient cut
  • Cool color options

Cons

  • Pricey (but worth it)
  • You need to purchase additional blades separately

Pet Worshiper Rating: 9.7


4. Oneisall Low Noise Rechargeable Dog Clippers – Best Affordable Option


The oneisall brand clipper can be a good choice for small dog owners. The product’s design allows for easy use, and the noise level is favorable for anxious dogs. Plus, it’s all at a great price. 

Key features:

  • Blade type: One detachable steel and ceramic blade

  • Colors: Gold

  • Cord: Corded and cordless option

  • Best for: Light and medium grooming, finishing, small and medium breeds

  • Speed: Single speed

  • Durability rating: 8.1

  • Ease of use: 9.2

  • Price range: $

This clipper is cordless, giving you flexibility and mobility. A run time of 150 minutes is achieved with a full charge, which is quite striking. For small breeds, this can be quite a few grooming sessions.

Plus, the clipper works while plugged in, which means you don’t have to worry about running out of battery. 

However, what is really positive about this product is the ultra-quiet operation. Well, there are very few clippers on the market that can guarantee a 50dB noise level, and oneisall is such a brand. 

No more dreaded Yorkie or anxious Chihuahua. The oneisall dog clipper is a suitable noiseless tool for any small pup. 

Although the engine runs relatively fast and the detachable blades are pretty sharp, you shouldn’t expect a miracle from this product. Andis clippers will work better in thick heavy coat dogs. 

However, if you are on a tight budget, oneisall can be a great alternative.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Detachable blades
  • Corded and Cordless option
  • Ultra Quiet

Cons

  • Not the best for really thick coats

Pet Worshiper Rating: 9.0


5. Wahl Bravura Professional Dog Clipper – Best Cordless Option


Cordless pet clippers prove helpful in many situations where you need to cut the coat on hard-to-reach parts of small breeds. My favorite cordless option is Wahl Bravura. Not only does this product perform all your tasks efficiently, but it has an impressive run time and an adjustable blade.

Key features:

  • Blade type: 5-in-1 adjustable blade (#9, #10, #15, #30, #40)

  • Colors: Pink, Berry, Gunmetal, Purple, Turquoise

  • Cord: Corded and Cordless

  • Best for: Light and medium grooming, finishing, small and medium breeds

  • Speed: Single speed, 5500 SPM

  • Durability rating: 9.1

  • Ease of use: 9.2

  • Price range: $$$

Thanks to the adjustable blade design, you can save a lot of money because you don’t need to get extra blades. 

Available sizes are #9, #10, #15, #30, and #40. Of course, you might want to look at what coat lengths the different blade sizes provide. 

The Wahl Bravura’s motor is fast and efficient. The 5500 SPM can cut almost any type of coat. However, it is worth noting that the manufacturer says that the product is not suitable for handling really thick fur.

Pros

  • Provides versatility, portability, and mobility
  • Reliable, fast, and durable motor
  • Great run time and charge time ratio
  • Vast color range
  • Works while plugged in

Cons

  • The single-speed motor is not suitable for everyone
  • Ideal for thick coats, but better for light grooming

Pet Worshiper Rating: 9.1


6. Wahl Professional BravMini+ Dog Clipper – Best for toy breeds and small-handed owners


I usually recommend Wahl Bravmini to owners afraid they could harm their toy breed dog with a bulky clipper. Well, this is definitely not going to happen with this product. Plus, thanks to its sleek and lightweight design, it will be a good choice for parents with really small hands.

Key features:

  • Blade type: Size #30 detachable blade

  • Colors: Purple

  • Cord: Cordless

  • Best for: Small tasks like finishing, touch-ups, ears, faces, paws

  • Speed: Single speed 5350 SPM

  • Durability rating: 8.7

  • Ease of use: 9.6

  • Price range: $$

The Bravmini can do all the more manageable tasks. Plus, despite the 5350 SPM, it’s pretty quiet. 

Thanks to the cordless design, you can enjoy the benefits of mobility and portability with this product, so it is convenient to use in several ways. 

However, keep in mind that this Wahl clipper is not the best choice for larger dogs and more serious tasks.

Pros

  • Perfectly fits in anyone’s hand
  • Quiet
  • Reliable and fast motor
  • Impressive run time
  • Perfect for regular grooming tasks

Cons

  • Not suitable for thicker coats
  • You need additional combs for different coat lengths

Pet Worshiper Rating: 8.5


Do you need a clipper designed for small or toy dogs?

When it comes to dog clippers, there is no one size fits all.

In fact, you may need a different type of clipper depending on the size and coat of your dog (I will write about this later).

So, if you have a small or toy dog, do you need special dog clippers?

There is no short answer to this question.  All experts agree that buying dog clippers for canines is a good idea. In some cases, human tools may also be appropriate, especially for lighter coat dogs.

But the difference in thickness between human and dog hair is quite significant, which is taken into account by pet clipper manufacturers.

Grooming clippers for dogs have stronger motors and more durable blades with teeth that can handle the thicker hairs of dogs. The situation is even more critical if you have a double coat breed.

If you have a dog with a thick, heavy coat, you will need to invest in dog clippers specifically designed for the task.

But what about small dogs?

Yeah, small breeds tend to have lighter coats (e.g Yorkies), so you might be able to get away with using human clippers.

But these dogs are often more anxious when they hear a sudden noise and vibrations. Pet clipper manufacturers are also aware of this.

Dog clippers are not only efficient but, on average quieter than the human versions. If you want really good for your small pup, you might want to choose a silent tool.

Because of their small body, small breeds choose a clipper that fits easily in your hand. Because of the easy maneuvering, you will have a much lower chance of possible accidents and injuries.

Owners should aim for the best possible quality. There are a few things you should consider before making your purchase. I will detail them below.

What to look for when choosing the best dog clippers for small dogs

what to look for when choosing dog clipper for small dogs

So you think you’re simply typing in the search engine that dog clipper and the first hit will suit you (more precisely for your dog)?

You couldn’t be more wrong!

There are lots of brands and features, and you could easily get confused when you see a lot of information. I will detail the most important aspects for you below.

Reliable brand

When it comes to dog clippers, the brand is everything. You don’t want to end up with a cheap pair of dog clippers that breaks down in the middle of grooming your dog. The most reputable brands are Andis, Wahl, and Oster. 

(Andis has been around for almost a century and is one of the most trusted brands in dog grooming.)

Design of the clipper: size and weight 

Dog clippers come in all shapes and sizes. You want to make sure you choose a size that is comfortable for you to hold and maneuver.

With a bulky grooming tool, you will have a rather difficult time. In the hard-to-reach parts of the body of toy breeds, it is a nightmare to cut hair with an oversized clipper.

However, a too-little clipper can also be a disadvantageous choice, as it won’t fit in your hands.

The same is true for weight.  A heavy dog clipper can be difficult to handle, especially if you have small hands.

But with a too light tool, it’s hard to feel in control, and it probably won’t be durable enough. You may want to choose the golden mean concerning the two considerations above.

Speed and speed levels

Manufacturers refer to speed as strokes per minute (SPM) or rotation per minute (RPM). Basically, the faster the motor in a clipper, the more efficiently it cuts dog hair.

When choosing dog clippers, you want to make sure they have adjustable speed. A single-speed dog clipper may be too fast or too slow for your dog’s coat.

With multiple speeds, you can find the perfect clipping speed for your dog’s temperament, body part, coat type, and thickness. This will give you real versatility while grooming.

Corded vs Cordless

Most dog clippers are powered by an electrical cord. These versions are effective and more powerful. But they have the disadvantage that you are tethered to a power outlet.

You also need to pay attention to the fact that the cord is constantly getting stuck in everything, and it can also bother your small dog.

Cordless dog clippers are powered by rechargeable batteries. They give you more freedom of movement while grooming your dog. But they are not as powerful as corded models and the battery life is limited.

You will have to decide which model is best for you and your dog.

Grooming kit vs standalone clipper

When you’re just looking for a clipper for home use, it might be a better idea to purchase a grooming kit instead of a standalone clipper.

A grooming kit comes with several different dog-grooming accessories, such as a comb, scissors, and dog-hair clipper guards.

This will give you the versatility to groom your dog in different ways, and with their help, you can take proper care of your clipper and blades.

Noise level

One important aspect that is often overlooked is the noise level of dog clippers. You don’t want a dog clipper that is too loud, as it will scare your dog (especially the small breed dogs).

The best dog clippers for small dogs are those with low noise levels. This way you can clip your dog’s hair without stressing him out.

The heat of the blades

One thing is sure: Friction is inevitable during the operation of dog clippers. This will cause the blades to heat up.

There are two common types of blade materials; steel and ceramic.  Steel is really durable but becomes hot soon.

Ceramic dog clipper blades stay cooler for longer periods of time than steel blades. This is important because you don’t want to burn your dog’s skin with hot blades.

Ceramic blades are also more durable and wear-resistant, so they will last longer.

But if you still want to use stainless steel blades, then you will need to take breaks during the grooming session. This will give the blades time to cool off.

You can also use replacement blades, or blade cooling sprays.

Blade sizes

We can talk about detachable and adjustable blades when it comes to blade sizes.

Detachable blades are easier to clean and change, but they are more expensive, as you need to purchase them separately. 

Adjustable dog clipper blades can be set to different sizes. Common sizes are: #9, #10, #15, #30, and #40. This is a great feature because you can use the same clipper for different dog breeds.

The size you choose will depend on the body part you are clipping and the breed of your dog, and the breed standards.

Is grooming a small or toy dog harder than grooming larger ones?

You need to be careful when clipping your small pup.  For beginners, grooming any dog ​​can be a challenge, especially for toy breeds. There are a few considerations you should take into account:

  • Their body: Clipping for small-bodied dogs is clearly harder. Especially on hard-to-reach parts of the body, such as the armpits. If you choose a clipper that is too bulky, it will be difficult to handle, and the chance of injuries increases. You should also be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can hurt your dog. (The same is true when you make rapid movements.) You have much more control when grooming large dogs because you can catch their legs, heads, and other parts of the body. Small dogs’ feet and faces are hard to hold, so grooming can be a nightmare for them.
  • Their anxiety: Anxiety can occur in any dog, but toy breeds are more prone to it. Grooming a dog that is anxious can be difficult, as they might start shaking, panting, and whining.
  • Their coat types: Some toy breeds have very fine hair (for example Yorkies). In this case, you don’t need a strong clipper.

Because of the above, learning how to groom tiny dogs can be challenging. But after a while, things just become easy.

How to perfect the clipping of your toy breed at home

Here are some tips to help you make grooming even more effective. You and your small pup will do well with these tricks.

  • Bathe your dog first: This will help make the grooming process easier and less stressful for your dog. It will also make the hair softer and easier to manage. You can also use a dog conditioner which is especially important if you have a dog with a thick coat. A conditioner will help detangle the hair, making it easier to clip.
  • Be careful, patient, and go slow: When clipping your dog, be careful and go slow. Rushing can lead to accidents, such as nicks and cuts. If you are patient, you will be able to clip your dog’s hair evenly without any problems. The skin must be taut when clipping hair close to it to avoid any accidents. Watch out for your dog’s rapid movements.
  • Start with the easy areas: Grooming a dog can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time. Start with the easy areas, such as the back and the legs. This will help you build up your confidence before moving on to more challenging parts of the dog’s body.
  • Be gentle: Remember, you are grooming a fragile little pup.
  • Prepare everything: It is best to have all the necessary accessories near you during your grooming. This can save you a lot of time and energy.
  • Pick the right grooming place: Choose a place where your dog feels comfortable. This can be anywhere in your house, as long as it is quiet and relaxed. You can also purchase a dog grooming table,  which will make the process easier. Your lap will also do the job just fine.
  • Have enough time for the grooming: If you are a beginner, the whole session can take a ton of time, even two hours. Don’t worry; this is entirely normal; you’ll be much more effective later. But in the beginning, you have to free up enough time on your schedule, so you don’t have to rush and hurry.
  • Use the right tools: Do some research on the best dog clippers for small breeds, and purchase one that is of good quality. This will make your life much easier. You should also get some dog grooming scissors to trim the hair around the dog’s face and feet. Remember; if you are working with a small dog, use tools that are not big and bulky, but fit in your hands.
  • Get help from a professional: If you are still not confident enough, you can always take your dog to a professional groomer. An expert will be able to help you with the basics and give you some tips.
  • Don’t forget the rewards: Last but not least, don’t forget to reward your dog with treats during and after the grooming session. This will help your dog associate grooming with something positive.

Final words

As you can see from my article, you should choose the best dog clipper for your small pup with real care. After all, these dogs can have extremely sensitive bodies, hair, and skin. 

My top pick is the Andis UltraEdge 2-speed model. This product will not let any dog ​​owner down, as a powerful and efficient motor accompanies the high-quality detachable blade. All this with a relatively quiet and cool run.


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Author:
Hey, my name is Peter, and I am the owner of this site. I have loved animals since I was a kid. I am constantly training myself; I recently obtained an accredited certificate in pet nutrition. But I am constantly learning about training, grooming for dogs and cats. I am currently a happy owner of two dogs, six cats, and two red-eared sliders. My goal is to provide my visitors with the most authentic information possible on any pet-related topic.
Amber LaRock
Reviewed By An Expert:

My name is Amber, and I am a licensed vet tech with 10 years of experience in the field. I spent the majority of my career working in emergency medicine but recently transitioned to creating accurate pet care information online. There is nothing more important to me than helping pet owners understand their furry friend’s health, and giving you the tools you need to offer your pet the best future possible!

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