Confidence Behind the Clippers: Why Speed Isn’t Everything

Every new groomer thinks speed is the ultimate goal. “How fast should I be?” “When will I be able to do a full groom in two hours?” “Am I too slow?”

Here’s the truth: speed is overrated—at least at the beginning.

What Students Think Matters

• Finishing in record time. (As if there’s a medal ceremony for fastest poodle trim.)

• Keeping up with seasoned groomers. (Spoiler: they’ve been doing this for years. YEARS.)

• Not getting “the look” from clients waiting in the lobby. (Trust me, they’d rather you be careful than quick.)

What Actually Matters

• Confidence. Knowing what you’re doing, even if you’re still piecing it together step by step.

• Consistency. Doing a clean, safe groom the same way twice, instead of rushing and hoping for the best.

• Calm Energy. Dogs pick up on panic. A nervous, frantic groomer = a nervous, wiggly dog.

The Speed Secret No One Tells You

Speed happens naturally. Somewhere around the middle of your training, things just start to click. Your hands know where the clipper goes. Your eyes spot lines faster. You don’t freeze every time the dog wiggles. Suddenly, the same groom that took 4 hours now takes 2—and you didn’t even notice the shift.

Why We Don’t Push It

When you force speed too early, mistakes happen:

• Uneven cuts.

• Missed mats.

• Nicked skin.

• And worst of all—losing the confidence you worked so hard to build.

Confidence is what allows you to get faster later. It’s the foundation. Without it, speed is just chaos on fast-forward.

So, If You’re Feeling “Too Slow”

Remember this: every great groomer you admire was once exactly where you are—sweating, second-guessing, taking forever to finish one dog. No one skipped that stage.

So instead of obsessing over the clock, ask yourself:

• Did the dog leave comfortable?

• Did I learn something I’ll use next time?

• Do I feel a little more sure of myself today than I did yesterday?

If the answer is yes, then congratulations—you’re right on time.

✂️ Next up? Breed Purpose, Health & Grooming. Or: why understanding what a dog was bred to do can completely change the way you approach their haircut.