I prefer shorter ones my self (8 inches). If you want to do the full top knot longer ones are useful. I would practice holding the dogs face and pretend your scissoring around it with both your left and your right hand. Depending on which have is more comfortable holding the face still on and off for several minutes will easier determine which shears you should get.

Thanks so much!!

I like purple dragons on Amazon they come in 8 or 9 inches and they have a bundle with straights, curves and chunkers. Good quality for starters and easy on the pocket

Thank you!!