It's a dogs world: 
A dog experiences their environment differently than a human does and in ways we mostly ignore. Beginning with the trainer’s attitude, a dog can almost immediately pick up on a human’s state of mind such as anger, aggression, happiness, etc. Guess which one helps a dog to relax and enjoy himself and his human? A dog senses things by smell, visually, hearing, taste, and touch significantly more than a human’s experience. A dog’s keen sense of can tell if a person is nervous, sick, or normal, and much more. His hearing can detect the rhythm of a heartbeat or identify a person’s excited breathing. The tone of a voice expresses the world to a dog beyond the vocabulary he may have. ​​Scientists are looking at something similar to a radar-related sense in dogs. 

​Studies are revealing there is a much greater depth and breath to what a dog’s senses covers than originally believed. Most dog lovers already know this, but the documentation and emerging facts are now being recorded, studied, and evaluated. 

​Even without his senses, a dog can get a well-rounded picture of his trainer just through the leash. The leash can offer things such as the trainer’s confidence, mood, and attention for starters. Before actively working with a dog, it is important to set the tone by establishing a happy, positive, and stress-free attitude. 
​​

Getting started: 
Leash training varies a little depending on the age of the dog and is a lot like swimming. If you just jump into the deep end you might end up drowning. With the dogs, it could be confusing and unpleasant to start the harness leash and walking all at the same time. So, taking some time upfront will allow for a better result. Remember, the goal here is for the dog to view the harness and leash as a promise of a great outing.

The first step is to find an indoor area with little distraction for the first couple of lessons. I would recommend letting the dog wear their harness if you are using one off and on for a couple of days before using a leash. This allows the dog to get used acclimate to it. Make it fun when you put the harness on and take it off. When he is no longer scratching at the harness add a leash. Do not hold it yet. Let the dog walk around with it on while under supervision until the dog is no longer interested in the leash. Be sure he does not consider it his new chew toy.  

How to hold your leash and more tips: 
How do you hold a leash? Hold your leash in your right hand, slipping the loop over your wrist where the V of the leash is secure in your palm, fisted at your waist on the right side of the body. The left hand is held downward toward the left from the body. You can also tie knots to hold on to in your leash where needed (It is a training leash – for both of you!). You always want to have the leash looped over your hand so that if your dog bolts or if there is a need you will not drop your leash. Gather excess leash in your right hand by laying it back and forth across your palm.  Your left-hand controls the leash. The leash itself should loosely draped towards the dog but should not touch the ground.  

TIP: IT IS A GOOD IDEA TO CARRY AN EXTRA LEASH & COLLAR IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

Pre-Walk: 
Walk your puppy in your backyard, living room, or if they have had their 16 week shot and a week for their body to process it, front yard, and walk with him. Make sure they stay on your left side. Do not guide them. Your hand should remain at your waist at all times. Let them have a moment to be curious. Then you begin, name and then command, "Fido, walk/go/let's go/etc.  

The method we are using is called the loose-leash method. If the puppy is in the desired area, you walk, if they are not you stop. 

llow the pup to take you around meaning not on a walk but a wander where he goes. When you feel he has settled into being on the leash call your puppy to “Puppy Name, Come” and move in the direction you wish to go. If your puppy is too busy, use a treat to pull his attention back to training and you. If the puppy pays attention on his own and moves toward you, encourage the dog by praising him as he moves toward you.

One of the more important tips is to get the puppy's attention, look your puppy in the eyes and then give a command. Alternatively, you could signal him or call his name to get his attention. One trick is to tap the pup’s nose and bring your finger up to your nose to focus his attention on your face. Stand tall next to your puppy when you begin. Walk with the puppy at your left side - you want to always start with the left foot as a signal to begin simultaneously signaling or calling your pup to begin.  

Next session set your pup down next to your left leg. Shorten the leash but having it still loose between you. Step off on your left foot calling your pup and walk. If the pup follows keep walking. If not, stop, use a treat to encourage the dog forward. Lots of praise and treats as he progresses. Repeat as needed. No rush here.

Treats:
The funny thing about rewards today is that you reward the ‘Do’s’ and simply stand fast waiting for your dog to check in with you for the ‘Don’ts’. You may say your version of 'no' at the 'Don'ts.' Reward your dog when he is quiet and follows directions. Try not to over-treat and remember to vary your methods of positive reinforcement, i.e. praise, and scratches to keep the treat or reward interesting. 

Story Time! 
We received a phone call about a pup with diarrhea that went home the day before. Well, knowing the stool had been fine when the pup left, there were some questions to ask. The answer ended up being that the pup was given 5x the appropriate amount of treats resulting in a stomach problem. Case closed.  Be conservative in your treats.

Placement: 
At this point, an informal command is very appropriate because you are introducing two things to your pup. You are introducing, “Come," "Walk," or "Go" and the movement toward you with a reward. Heel designates that the dog is to be by your side in a specific walking area near your foot. The dog’s shoulder should be at your leg. This is done when they start to veer off. 

Now is the time to entice your pup to be simply walking with you. You want to make this exciting. We gave treated, praise, and gave scratches for good behavior when we attached the leash and eventually lessened treats until it is done randomly but we maintained the scratches and praise. Positive enforcement only build upon these experiences, encouraging your dog to look forward and cooperate in getting ready to go out. 

It is better to reward the pup’s movement toward you rather than to use the treat as a lure. Also, any sound you make to get the pup’s attention to come will work initially while working ‘Come’ into the vocabulary (use kissy sounds, etc., to get attention). As the training continues do not allow the dog to walk in front of the trainer.  He may get the wrong idea!
 
Rome was not built in a day: 
Keep your first session very short. It is better to end on a short success than a longer mediocre session. Repeat. And Repeat. And repeat. With a puppy 5 minutes of success is a long time. 

Clicker Training: This works well for many people, but I do not do well with the sound of a metal clicker, itself, so I command verbally or use hand signals (another lesson).

In addition to weekly or twice weekly class sessions practice at least 10 minutes a day- twice a day - or 20 minutes daily was recommended. With a dog younger than four or five months the shorter, twice daily sessions may be better.
 
Fresh & Fun:
Find the pace your pup works best with. Some dogs prefer a faster pace to a slower one and vice versa. Having said that, vary the walking pace to slow down and speed up. Make sharp turns right and left and figure eights. It is important as you lengthen your walks to that you change it up. Add turning around here and there. Turn into the dog and turn out from the dog.  Stop and go.

As you progress begin to ask the dog to ‘Heel’ as your dog finds being at your side with his shoulder near your leg more familiar.  Give the 'Heel' command as you step off on your walk and before turning as a heads up in the beginning but do not slow or adjust your pace. Always talk to your dog. Praise him along the way. As you continue come to a halt for ‘Release and Praise’ time. Your dog will perform better on a shorter leash than a longer one, but it should not be taunt. The goal is for the leash to hang loosely between you while your dog learned to walk and not a tight rope to his neck.

It is a balancing act to find that right place. You are building a relationship based on trust and positivity, scolding will set this process back. Do not hesitate to ask someone coming near you with a dog to give you more room if you feel crowded. If you see a dog off-leash coming toward you, toss it some treats, pick up your pup, and go in another direction. One suggestion is to carry a large umbrella to open for the element of surprise and distraction with a loose dog or as closed, it can help keep the distance. 

Ending the session: 
Always end your session with exuberant praise and TLC. Give that final treat. Enjoy your dog and let your dog enjoy being with you.
  
APDT – Association of Professional Dog Trainers
CBCC-KA – Certified Behavior Consultant, Canine, Knowledge Assessed
CCPDT- Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers
CDBC – Certified Dog Behavior Consultant
CDT – Certified Dog Trainer
CDTA - Certified Dog Trainer - Advanced
CPDT – Certified Professional Dog Trainer
CPDT-KA – Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed
CSDT – Certified Service Dog Trainer
IAABC – International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
IACP – International Association of Canine Professionals
NADOI – National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors
PDT- Professional Dog Trainer
PDTI – Professional Dog Training Instructor
Certified and Texas state licensed police/security dog trainer- see documentation
Master Dog Trainer – Self-Given Title

References:
“7 Best Harnesses for Small Dogs [2022 Reviews]: Tiny & Terrific!” K9 Of Mine, 9 Oct. 2019, https://www.k9ofmine.com/best-harness-for-small-dogs/.


Dogcollarsharnessesandleashes. “Types of Dog Leash Fasteners.” Dog Collars Harnesses and Leashes, 18 Apr. 2022, https://dogcollarsharnessesandleashes.com/types-of-dog-leash-fasteners/.


Karen AndersonUpdated by Margeaux Baulch Klein, et al. “The 10 Best Small Dog Harnesses: Your Complete Guide.” The Dog People by Rover.com, 12 Nov. 2021, https://www.rover.com/blog/reviews/small-dog-harnesses/.


Nicole CosgroveNicole is the proud mom of Rosa. “10 Best Dog Harnesses for Small Dogs [Reviews 2022 ].” Hepper, 27 Mar. 2022, https://www.hepper.com/best-dog-harness-for-small-dogs/.


Phenix, Annie, et al. “What to Do When an off-Leash Dog Approaches Your Leashed Dog.” Dogster, 2 July 2021, https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/what-to-do-when-an-off-leash-dog-approaches-your-leashed-dog.


“Spot the Difference: Front Clip versus Back Clip Harnesses.” Andrea Arden Dog Training, 18 Oct. 2016, https://andreaarden.com/dog-training/spot-the-difference-front-clip-versus-back-clip-harnesses/.


Stregowski, Jenna. “Which Dog Collar Is Best for Your Dog?” The Spruce Pets, The Spruce Pets, 21 Mar. 2022, https://www.thesprucepets.com/different-types-of-dog-collars-1118613.


“Understanding Dog Training Collar Injuries.” VetInfo, https://www.vetinfo.com/dog-training-collar.html.


Vuckovic, Angela. “How to Discipline a Dog without Hitting, Advice and Tips.” Petfeed - Pet Care Tips, How-to Guides, Funny Stories, Comics, and Videos, Petfeed - Pet Care Tips, How-to Guides, Funny Stories, Comics, and Videos, 16 Nov. 2021, https://blog.petcube.com/dog-training/. ​

Key Points About Shears:
When looking at grooming shears consider

1. Quality
2. How the shear fits your hand (design)
3. Weight
4. Purpose
5. Length
6. Balance of the shears. 

The size of your hand and fit really determines which shears will be most comfortable. The movement of the shears will be hindered if it is too small for the hand and the same motion will be awkward with less control if too big.  The purpose of the scissors will influence the length of the haircut. Many people begin with smaller/shorter shears and replace them with a longer version as their experience and confidence grows.  

There are straight grooming shears, curved grooming shears and thinning shears used the most for dogs other than clippers or used in conjunction with clippers. The balance and weight of the shears can affect fatigue as the job moves along.​

Handles:
There are several different kinds of handles: 

• Straight or Opposing
• Offset
• Swivel handle or Crane-style

The straight/opposing handle places a greater strain on the back, neck, shoulder, hand, wrist and arm. The last type of handle is a swivel-thumb scissor created to ease these discomforts.  There is also a double swivel, bent thumb and wider spaced handle shears to be considered as ergonomic shears to improve overall comfort while working.
 
Materials

• Steel (mostly iron)
• Stainless steel (less corrosive) 
• VG-10 Hitachi steel (less brittle and stays sharper longer)
• 440 stainless steel
• 440C stainless steel (resistant to corrosion/holds edge longer)
• Titanium coated (used only for color value and has no impact on keeping a sharp edge)
• Stainless steel blades
• 56HRC, Japanese steel (Sensei)
• Japanese Cobalt steel  
• ATS-314 is the finest steel for scissors in the world.  It is the most expensive. 

Stainless steel is recommended for first time buyers due to its endurance. The higher the steel quality equates to the longer it will hold the edge and the lesser the chance of chipping.  
​
DID YOU KNOW? A $30-$60 PAIR OF SHEARS WILL HOLD AN EDGE FOR ABOUT 3 MONTHS.

HARDNESS
The Rockwall Hardness Scale begins at 46 and goes through 66 and provides a scale for standardized metal strength levels.  This is used to see how well a metal will hold an edge. The highest quality of steel to the lowest quality of steel follows: 

1. Hitachi ATS-314
2. Hitachi ATS 440C
3. 10 (VG10)
4. V1 (VG1)
5. 440C
6. 440A. 

DID YOU KNOW? "JAPAN" OR "HITACHI STEEL" IS USED FOR FORGERIES. 

Fulcrum
Shears come with a factory set screw or there is an adjustable tension knob. A metal adjustment screw is more durable than a rubber one.  Tension can improve or ruin the quality of a cut.  It can make the work easier when at the proper point.
 
Types of Blade Edges
Beveled Shears have beveled (small serrations) edges which hold onto hair, particularly fine hair better. In comparison, to convex edge shears, beveled edge shears have a rougher cut.  The beveled edge originated in Germany and is a more traditional, thicker angled edge. The angle can vary but the blade is more durable and less expensive to maintain than a convex edge. This edge requires a little more force to cut with than a convex or semi-convex blade and even though it offers flat surface cutting edge, many argue that it does not support advanced cuts like slide cutting.  

​Semi-Convex blades truly are a combination of the traditional and Japanese style blade. It has the beveled curved edge blade but is narrower than a traditional beveled edge. Less expensive shears offers durability and holds a sharper edge than a traditional beveled edge.

Convex edge shears are more expensive because of the difficulty to make them. The blades originate from Japan and are referred to as a Japanese style blade. This is a finely milled indented edge that is easier to damage if misused. While it is costly to sharpen, it's performance is a cut above its peers. The is hollow ground or hollow grind is a concave surface which is behind cutting edge.  The curve blade allows for cutting at an angle.  This edge has a smooth and quick action called a “butter cut”.  Convex shears are better to use for the professional working with advanced techniques such as chipping, etc.  These shears have a very sharp edge but from a groomers point of view it is better to use them on a clean coat to finish the coat.
 
Curvature and type of Blade
Straight Shears are the most universal shears and are usually about .5”- 1” longer than the curved shears used.

Curved Shears work well around the curved shape of a dog’s body.  The curved blades are used around the face, feet, ears, etc.  
 
Serrated-Edge Scissors  
Thinning Scissors are serrated edge scissors.  Plain ones are used to thin the hair primarily. They cut only a portion of the hair and soften the lines between other cuts.  By cutting the hair at the skin level thinning shears can reduce the hair volume.  By cutting the ends of the hair it can give a less clipped and more natural appearance and are rated by the degree of hair thinning in a cut.  A hair thinning rate of 20 – 30% is very efficient for any dog coat. 

Serrated edge shears are used for wide multitude of purposes, from specialty styling to an everyday natural look.  A basic thinning shear has 27-40 teeth and two notched blades like a serrated comb.  Another variety has 28 teeth on average its serrated comb blade and a non-notched matching smooth blade (Blender). A Blender gets the job done more quickly than the classic thinning shear. Shears with teeth notched on one blade with the other blade having V notched teeth holds the hair better. The larger the V notch, the greater amount of hair will be held and cut. The German style has a 42-46 tooth thinner with a beveled edge is a good work horse for any tool box.

Texturing shears offer wider spaces between blade teeth. The texturing shears have 10-24 teeth unlike the serrated edge shear's 27-40 teeth. There is a ragged-bladed scissor with 'T' shape teeth and creates a softer and more natural appearance. This style of thinning scissor is known as Chunkers/Chunking/Notching (Texturizers or Fishtails) have 5 to 9 teeth.  It is used for the back of legs, ears, and thinning thick hair.  It can give a spike hair look. Heavier shears should be no longer than 7” and will retain its edge better than lighter, longer ones. With the 5” scissors higher teeth count works better around the eyes and nose. 

Fishbone Hair thinning scissors (5.75”) have 18, 14 or 8 teeth.  This strange scissor has a traditional comb blade and the other blade has rounded notches on the outside edge.  The shear can work as a razor tool if needed.

The more even the teeth and gaps between the teeth then the better the blending.  The wider the teeth and narrower the gaps then the results are a more natural look.

The tension on the thinning shears should be set tighter than regular shears.  The tighter the tension the lesser chance of nicks.

​​Length

• 7.5 – 8.5” Length most commonly used by groomers. (EX.:  7.5” curve shear, 8” straight shear). A longer shear can remove more hair per cut than a shorter shear. Classified as finishing shears.
• ​6.0 – 7.0”  Length Especially used for techniques such as deep point cutting, scissor-over-comb, etc.
• 5.5 – 6.5”  Shorter shears allow for more precision with less stress easing stress for the hand while being able to work well in smaller areas.  This length is used for most of the work.
• 5.0 – 5.5”   These shorter, narrow blades are used for detailed work. 
• A shorter (4.5”, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5 or 7”) scissor may be easier to work on a smaller dog with than a longer blade.

 
Weight
Weight plays a huge part in balance of the shear and what fits your hand comfortably without stressing the wrist.
 
Where to start:
The sharper the blade, the cleaner and less resistant the cut. Most importantly, the better fit for the hand means more comfort giving easier cuts. A classic handle may limit usability. There are many shiny, sharp imitators out there. Look for brands with stability and quality for an affordable price. 

1. Geib
2. Kenchii
3. Lily's Pet Professional
4. Rubold
5. Sharf
6. Purple Dragon has quality products for left-handed folks.

These are some brands repeatedly seen throughout the research done for this piece. The cheapest will not be the best choice but the higher end means nothing if it does not fit the hand well.

One recommendation is using a pet grooming 88 Filipino style 440C shear with the wider blade 7.5. If you do not expect much, the kits are inexpensive but it offers you the time to find what you really want or the direction to go when evaluating more expensive decisions or individual tools. The bonus is that you are taking care of your pets needs, building your confidence and experience, and while having a minimal investment if this is something you want to do on a regular basis.

Word of caution: 
The cheapest kits will be a waste of time and money.  Only use the shears on hair, otherwise the reason for purchasing them is lost.  Keep grooming tools in a special, protected place with limited access. Sharp shears are not kid friendly. We hope this helps anyone looking for shears or scissors to groom their dog to understand a little more about their choices. Please investigate the care for these tools as it is information not provided here. Also, be sure who ever sharpens your blades knows how to work on grooming shears. Ask about micro serrations. A manufacturer’s service may be your best choice.

For more information:
Visit the Marlo Beauty website listed in our references below for information about maintenance, cleaning, and further care.  It is a wonderful, informative article that encompasses so much more than caring for shears. 
 
References:
“Choosing the Right Shear for You.” Scissor Mall, https://www.scissormall.com/faq-choosing-the-right-shear-for-you#offset-opposing-crane-handle-shear.

Conner, Daryl. “Choosing the Right Scissors for You.” Groomer to Groomer, 13 Oct. 2020, https://www.groomertogroomer.com/choosing-the-right-scissors-for-you/.

“Convex Edge or Beveled Edge Shears.” The Difference between Convex Edge Shears and Beveled Edge Shears, https://www.hairfinder.com/hair2/shears.htm.

“Difference between Shears and Scissors.” Home Quicks, 11 June 2015, https://homequicks.com/difference-between-shears-scissors.

“Dog Grooming Shears Buyer's Guide.” OPAWZ, https://www.opawz.com/blogs/general/dog-grooming-shears-buyers-guide.

Facebook.com/getarazor. “Top 10 Hair Cutting Shears for Beginners & Professionals [Udated 2022].” Getarazor, 2 Jan. 2022, https://getarazor.com/best-hair-cutting-shears/.

Law, Serena. “5 Best Dog Grooming Scissors: Affordable Shears for 2022.” Daydreamdog, 18 June 2020, https://daydreamdog.com/best-dog-grooming-shears/.

Luv2Sew. “What's the Difference between Scissors and Shears?” What's the Difference Between Scissors and Shears? |, 25 Oct. 2010, http://blog.havelssewing.com/whats-the-difference-between-scissors-and-shears/.

Marlo Beauty Supply. How to Choose the Best Professional Hair Cutting Shears. https://www.marlobeauty.com/pro2pro/how-to-choose-the-best-professional-hair-cutting-shears/a378/.

Scissors - Knife Center. https://www.knifecenter.com/shop/scissors.

“Scissors.” How Products Are Made, http://www.madehow.com/Volume-3/Scissors.html.

“Size of Hair Scissors.” Size of Scissors, Good Shears Length or Haircutting Scissors Length for a Beginning Hair Stylist, https://www.hairfinder.com/hair/hair-scissors.htm.

“To Use Trello, Please Enable JavaScript.” Trello, https://trello.com/c/46SO04bM/2271-en-terminology-of-scissors-boldbarber.

Ultimate Guide: Best Dog Grooming Scissors and Thinning Shears. https://trimepil.com/dog-grooming-scissors-thinning-shears/.

“What Every Hairstyling Professional Should Know about Shears.” Washi Scissor Company, https://washiscissor.com/shear-knowledge/.

“What Is the Difference between Scissors and Shears?” Oishya, 12 Nov. 2021, https://oishya.com/journal/what-is-the-difference-between-scissors-and-shears/.

“Wholesale Meisha+7’+Professional+Pet+.” 0 Item Found for Wholesale Meisha+7+Professional+Pet+, https://www.dhgate.com/wholesale/search.do?act=search&dspm=&sus=&searchkey=meisha%2B7%22%2Bprofessional%2Bpet%2B&catalog=#pusearch1812. 

Dog Food/Treats:

• Hollywood Feed (Fromm's Puppy Gold)
• Chewy (Purina Performance & Purina Puppy)

Medicine/Preventatives/Vitamins:

• Medicine

Toys

• Amazon
• Chewy

Necessities, i.e. Collar/Harness/Leash/Beds/Feeders/Crates/Pee Patches/Playpens

• Hollywood Feed
• Amazon
• Chewy
• Etsy (Love for personalized collar/harness/leash)
• Petsmart
• Petco