If your dog clippers keep jamming, it's often because hair, dirt, or dander builds up between the blades. Without regular cleaning and oiling, clippers can clog and struggle to cut smoothly. Sometimes, dull or worn-out blades are also to blame. In this guide, we’ll show you simple ways to fix and prevent these common problems—so you can get back to stress-free grooming.

Dirty Or Clogged Blades

I’ve noticed my clippers jam when I don’t clean them often. Hair and dust build up between the blades, making them stop cutting properly. I now use a small brush to sweep away trapped hair during and after grooming and wipe the blades with blade wash. Regular cleaning keeps them running much smoother.

Dull Blades

When my clipper starts tugging instead of trimming, it’s usually a sign that the blades are dull. Thick coats make it worse. I now sharpen or replace the blades regularly and keep a shorter #10 blade handy for tougher spots, which helps prevent jams and ensures a cleaner cut.

Lack Of Lubrication

At first, I didn’t realize that dry blades could cause clippers to jam and overheat. Now, I apply a few drops of clipper oil before every session and again every 15–20 minutes while grooming. It keeps the blades gliding smoothly, protects the motor, and reduces friction that causes sudden stops.

Thick Or Matted Coats

Trying to cut through my dog’s thick, tangled coat with a basic clipper used to jam it every time. I’ve learned to brush out mats first, bathe and fully dry my dog, and use a powerful clipper designed for dense coats. It makes grooming faster, safer, and much less frustrating.

Overheating And Motor Strain

One grooming session, my clippers got so hot they shut off completely. I realized clippers need rest, just like we do. Now, I take 10-minute breaks every 15–20 minutes and use a coolant spray. It keeps the clippers from overheating and extends their lifespan.

Low Battery Or Power Loss

I love cordless clippers for convenience, but they can lose power quickly. It’s happened to me mid-groom before. Now, I make sure the battery is fully charged beforehand and keep a corded backup ready. A steady power source saves time and frustration.

Blade Misalignment Or Loose Screws

Once, my clipper kept jamming, and I couldn’t figure out why. Turns out the blade was loose. Now, I always inspect the blade alignment and tighten any loose screws before each session. It only takes a minute and prevents major headaches.

Preventing Jams In The Future

Before we dive into long-term care tips, it’s worth considering your entire grooming setup. Related Reading: How to Choose the Perfect Pet Grooming Kit? Having the right tools from the start can make a huge difference in preventing clogs, jams, and frustration.

How To Fix Jammed Clippers

Clean And Brush Out Hair

I used to think my clippers were broken, but it turns out they were just clogged with fur. I now use a small cleaning brush or even a toothbrush to sweep away trapped hair during and after grooming. Blade wash or alcohol spray also helps remove stubborn buildup.

Lubricate The Blades

Dry blades were the hidden cause of many jams for me. I now oil the blades before grooming and every 15–20 minutes while trimming. A few drops across the blade teeth and sides make a huge difference in reducing friction and keeping everything running smoothly.

Switch To A Sharper Or Shorter Blade

Thick or matted coats used to jam my clippers until I switched to a sharper, shorter blade. The #10 blade glides through better than a finishing blade like the #7F. Keeping a backup blade on hand also helps when the cut starts getting rough.

Let The Motor Rest And Cool Down

Overheating used to shut down my grooming sessions halfway through. Now, I take short breaks to let the motor cool down and use a cooling spray on the blades. It keeps the clippers running longer and helps my dog stay comfortable.

Charge The Battery Or Use A Corded Option

I used to start grooming with a half-charged cordless clipper—big mistake. Now I fully charge the battery before every session, and I always have a corded model as a backup if needed. It keeps the grooming process smooth and stress-free.

Groom A Clean, Dry Dog

I’ve found that grooming a dirty or greasy dog causes clippers to jam fast. I now always bathe and fully dry my dog before trimming. Brushing out any tangles beforehand also helps the clippers glide through easily.

Use The Right Clipper For Your Dog’s Coat

Use The Right Clipper For Your Dog’s Coat

Using a lightweight clipper on my thick-coated retriever didn’t work well—it jammed constantly. Now, I choose heavy-duty clippers with more torque for thick coats, and lighter clippers for smaller or short-haired dogs. If you're looking for a reliable option, the Oneisall 676 Pro dog hair clippers are built for smooth, powerful grooming, especially for pets with dense fur. They’re designed to reduce jamming and make home grooming much easier.

Oil Blades Every 15–20 Minutes

Applying oil before grooming wasn’t enough—I learned to add a few more drops every 15–20 minutes during the session. It keeps the blades cooler, smoother, and much less prone to jamming, especially during long trims.

Replace Or Sharpen Blades Regularly

I thought my clippers were broken once, but really the blades were just dull. Now, I either sharpen them professionally or replace them every few months depending on usage. Sharp blades make grooming quicker and easier.

Store Clippers Properly

I used to throw my clippers in a drawer after grooming—bad idea. Moisture and dust can ruin them fast. Now, I clean, oil, and store them in a dry, protective case to keep them in top condition between sessions.

Common Questions Dog Owners Ask

Why Does My Clipper Pull Hair Instead Of Cutting?

Usually, this means the blade is dull or clogged with hair. Clean, oil, and replace it if needed. Also, make sure you're not pressing too hard.

Can I Sharpen My Own Clipper Blades?

Yes, but it's tricky. Unless you're experienced, it’s best to take them to a professional sharpener or buy replacement blades to ensure the best results.

Should I Use Scissors On Matted Fur First?

Absolutely. For tight mats, use thinning scissors or a dematting comb before using clippers. Clippers can jam or even hurt your dog if forced through matted patches.

How Often Should I Oil The Blades?

Oil the blades before every session and again every 15–20 minutes while grooming. It’s one of the easiest ways to keep your clippers running smoothly and avoid jams.

When Should I Replace My Clipper Altogether?

If you’ve cleaned, oiled, aligned, and replaced the blade—but your clipper still jams or loses power—it may be time to invest in a new one.

Final Thoughts: A Little Maintenance Goes A Long Way

Dog clippers jam for a lot of reasons, but most are easy to fix. Keep your blades clean, sharp, and well-oiled. Prep your dog’s coat before trimming and match your tools to your dog’s coat type. With a few simple habits, grooming will become faster, safer, and much less stressful—for both you and your dog.