Any tips would be REALLY helpful...my dog just lost part of her ear at the groomer and now i'm too scared to take her back..

Groomers are expensive, and we've had a couple of bad experiences. I use an Oster clipper set with a couple of different guards and 2 blade sizes on my 3 pekingese. The original clipper and blade cost around $100 from my local Petsmart, and I've been using them for 6 or more years. I had a cheaper pair before these that died within 6 months. Our pekes have thick hair, so I usually keep them longer and trim with scissors in the winter, and shorter, but not shaved in the summer. The guards just don't go through their hair as well, that's why I bought different blades (which cost $25 to $50). I will say my husband helps me since 2 of our pekes don't care much for the trim until after it's done. You'll want to take in to account your dogs temperament and your own when considering the do it yourself route. I've definitely saved loads of money, but it's certainly not for everyone.

I have a Golden, too, and I would love some tips and ideas!!!

Dont shave a golden!!! whatever you do! I'm a groomer and we've had some double-coated dogs(like goldens, pomeranians, and husky's) that we're shaved and now the outer coat(guard hairs) won't grow back, just the undercoat grows. It looks really horrible and feels like rough carpet. If you absolutely have to shave with as long a blade as possible to avoid any problems, or try shaving a strip up the middle of the belly (it's called tunneling). But just up the middle so that when the dog stands up you cant tell.

ps: As a groomer I am appalled to hear of the shoddy work thats out there, I work hard everyday to provide a quality service, and when I hear of other groomers that have cut tips of ears off and stuff it makes me sick.

I work at petco, and its sad to hear that you guys have had bad experiences with groomers but if you go into any petco, an associate or one of the groomers should be able to help you find the exact blades and combs for your needs. Definately ask them about which clippers are better than others. Dont fall for the lower price ones, they do die after a couple uses. Another thing as far as helping the skin, try not to bathe the dogs too frequently because that dries out the coat and skin. Another great thing to use to help prevent dry skin and coat is salmon oil in the food or dog food that has fish in it. Dont be afraid to go into a petco grooming salon and ask for tips they shouldnt mind!

Just wanted to add that when you use clippers they get really really hot and can burn your pooch! There is this cooling spray that you can buy for your clippers and all you do is spray it on the blade every now and then, not sure of the name of it but you could get it at petsmart etc. Also be aware of the thin skin under their belly at the top of their legs you can cut it if you are not careful! I have also heard from my groomer that some dogs hair won't grow back after you shave. I'm not sure about golden retrievers though.

Clippercide is the name of the cooling spray, thats what we use anyway...or have an extra blade so you can switch off when it gets too hot.

Also a grooming-arm would be good to have so that your not having to crouch down on the floor or chase your dog around the house.

i have a beautiful puggle/schnoodle named honey and i keep her coat puppy-shaved year round. i bought a pair of mens beard clippers from walmart ($22) and they work PERFECT! this is only a good tip for people who have small dogs (honey is 25 pounds) but you can literally put whatever attachemnt you want ( i use a mens 2...1/4inch i think it is) and shave away.. she only feels a slight buzzing and doesnt even flinch.