How to Trim the Hair Around a Dog's Eyes Safely

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

A dog's eyes sit very close to hair, and in many breeds the hair grows right over them. Regular trimming keeps vision clear and prevents irritation, but it needs a steady hand and the right tools.

Why it matters

Hair that pokes into the eye can scratch the cornea, cause constant tearing and lead to infection. It also traps tears and encourages staining. In some breeds, hair falling over the eyes limits vision and can make dogs nervous. See how to remove tear stains from dogs.

Which breeds need it

Shih Tzus, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Poodles, Bichons, Lhasa Apsos and many terriers and doodles have hair that grows toward the eyes. See Shih Tzu grooming.

Tools

• Blunt-tipped grooming scissors with rounded ends, or small trimmers
• A fine-toothed comb
• Treats
• Good light

Never use sharp-pointed scissors, which can seriously injure the eye if your dog moves.

Preparation

Work when your dog is relaxed, perhaps after a walk. Put your dog on a non-slip surface at about your eye level. Ask a helper to hold and treat your dog if needed. Clean the face first. See how to clean dog eyes safely.

Step by step

1. Comb the hair forward and out of the eyes.
2. Hold the hair between comb teeth, so the comb is between the scissors and the skin.
3. Cut above the comb, pointing the scissor tips away from the eye, parallel to the face.
4. Trim small amounts at a time, working from the bridge of the nose outward.
5. Shape the hair from the inner corner of the eye toward the outer corner of the eye so it falls away from the eye.
6. Check the result from the front.
7. Reward your dog.

Using small clippers

Small trimmers can be safer for nervous dogs. Use a very short guard and keep the blades away from the eyes. Introduce the noise gradually. See how to get a dog used to nail trims for desensitization methods that also work for clippers.

Topknots and alternatives

If you prefer to keep length, tie hair up in a loose topknot using soft bands. Do not pull tightly, and remove daily. See silky-coat grooming.

Safety rules

• Never cut toward the eye
• Never trim when the dog is jumpy or struggling
• Do not rush
• Stop if you are unsure or the dog is distressed

When to use a groomer

If your dog is wriggly or you feel nervous, a professional can do it quickly. See how to choose a professional dog groomer.

Aftercare

Check for redness or irritation. Keep the area clean and dry, and watch for signs of eye discomfort.

How the finished trim should look

You should be able to see both eyes clearly from the front, with hair sweeping away from the eyes rather than into them. The line should be tidy but not so short that the skin shows. In breeds such as the Shih Tzu, many owners keep the length on the bridge of the nose but shorten the hair directly in front of the eyes.

Training your dog to accept face handling

Touch the face briefly several times a day, giving treats for calm behavior. Practise lifting the topknot, holding the muzzle and combing the hair with a soft brush. When your dog is comfortable with these steps, bring in the scissors, starting with the closed blades near, but not at, the face. Gradual training means trims become quicker and safer.

The takeaway

Use blunt scissors, a comb for protection and slow, careful cuts. If in doubt, leave it to a professional.