15 Best Poodle Haircuts for Every Size: Grooming Tips, DIY Instructions & Styling Advice

Poodle Cut Key Points

• Poodle grooming is essential for coat health, mat prevention, and comfort — regardless of size (toy, mini, or standard).
• There are many Poodle haircut styles to choose from, including teddy bear cuts, summer shaves, and show trims like the Continental Clip.
• With the right tools and guidance, Poodle owners can confidently groom their dogs at home.
• Regular grooming is key.

Introduction

Whether you’re raising a toy, miniature, or standard Poodle, grooming is essential — not just for their iconic look, but also for their skin health, coat maintenance, and comfort. From plush teddy bear trims to functional summer shaves, the Poodle cut has evolved far beyond the show ring into a versatile and customizable style. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to confidently groom your poodle at home.

👉 Keep reading to discover which Poodle haircut style suits your pup and how to safely groom them at home like a pro!

What Is a Poodle Cut?

Before diving into the styles, let’s explore what a Poodle cut really is and why it’s more than just a fashion statement.

Origins of the Poodle Cut

The iconic poodle haircut has a surprising origin: practicality. Poodles were originally water retrievers, and the continental clip helped them move through water more efficiently while protecting vital joints and organs with pom-poms. Over time, the style became synonymous with show dogs and elegance.

Why Poodles Need Regular Grooming

“With a curly coat, we have a very specific set of grooming needs. When we are dealing with a curly coat, we are obviously dealing with a nice, thick, beautiful coat … that needs to be brushed and maintained regularly. What I’m referring to is brushing the coat to make sure you aren’t getting any matting.” - Nadia Bongelli, award-winning dog groomer and Paw Parent Academy instructor

Poodles have dense, curly coats that grow continuously. Furthermore, they don’t shed like most breeds. This means:

• Mats and tangles form easily without maintenance;
• Dirt and debris can get trapped near the skin;
• Regular trimming keeps them cool in summer and warm in winter.

Grooming isn’t optional — it’s essential! You’ll learn more about this in our How To Groom a Goldendoodle (and Other Curly Coats) course, which teaches curly-haired care from the ground up.

Poodle Haircut Styles Explained: From Classic to Contemporary

Each haircut comes with its own aesthetic, upkeep level, and suitability based on your dog’s size and activity level.

Short Poodle Haircuts (Summer Cuts & Shaves)

Short Poodle haircuts are ideal for summer or high-energy dogs. These easy-to-maintain styles help prevent overheating and reduce matting.

• Kennel Cut: Uniformly short all over
• Summer Cut: Shaved body with slightly longer face or ears
• Shave Down: Ideal for very matted coats (done with care!)

Continental & English Saddle Cuts

These dramatic styles are most often seen in dog shows.

• Continental Cut: Shaved legs, full topknot, pom-poms on ankles and tail
• English Saddle Cut: Similar to the continental but with fuller legs

While elegant, they require regular upkeep and professional skill.

Teddy Bear Cut

Perfect for mini and toy Poodles, this popular cut leaves the coat soft and rounded all over — especially the face.

• Cute and approachable
• Lower maintenance than show cuts
• Learn how to master it in our Teddy Bear Cuts course

Poodle Without Haircut: What to Expect

Curious what a Poodle looks like without a haircut? Think fluff-ball.

• Standard Poodle ungroomed coats grow dense and long
• Mats form rapidly
• You’ll struggle to see your dog’s true shape

A Poodle without a haircut isn’t healthy, because their coat needs regular trimming!

15 Best Poodle Haircuts for Toy, Miniature & Standard Poodles

From classic to creative, here are the most loved Poodle haircut styles, including toy Poodle haircuts, mini Poodle haircuts, and those suited to standards.

1. Teddy Bear Cut

The Teddy Bear Cut is one of the most popular grooming styles for Mini and Toy Poodles, and it’s easy to see why. This cut features a rounded face and plush body that gives your dog an irresistibly cuddly appearance. It’s a beginner-friendly option that doesn’t require show-level maintenance, making it ideal for pet parents who want a cute, manageable look at home.

2. Puppy Cut

The Puppy Cut is a timeless favorite for Poodles of all sizes, especially young dogs or first-time groomers. It’s defined by an even-length trim across the entire body, usually around 1–2 inches. This style is practical, low-maintenance, and perfect for warm weather or active pups, giving your dog a neat and tidy look without the fuss.

3. Summer Cut (Shave Down)

Ideal for hotter climates or dogs who tend to mat easily, the Summer Cut (or Shave Down) keeps things short and simple. The body is clipped very close to the skin, while the face or ears may be left slightly longer for style. It’s important to shave with care and never go too short—especially on fair-skinned dogs—to avoid sunburn or skin irritation.

4. Continental Clip

This iconic show-style haircut is instantly recognizable and steeped in tradition. The Continental Clip features a full topknot, shaved legs, and distinctive pom-poms on the ankles and tail. While visually striking and elegant, this cut requires advanced grooming skills and regular maintenance, making it best suited for show dogs or experienced groomers.

5. Modified Continental Cut

A slightly more practical take on the traditional show clip, the Modified Continental Cut maintains the dramatic flair while offering more coat coverage. It still includes pom-poms and a shaped topknot but provides fuller body sections for warmth and ease of upkeep. It’s a great choice for pet parents who want a stylish look without the extreme upkeep of a full show trim.

6. Lamb Cut

Soft, smooth, and balanced, the Lamb Cut gives your Poodle a cuddly, natural look. The body is trimmed close to the skin while the legs are left fuller and rounded, creating a gentle silhouette. This cut works well on all Poodle sizes and offers a great blend of manageability and visual appeal for everyday pet owners.

7. Kennel Cut

The Kennel Cut is all about function and simplicity. It’s short all over the body, making it ideal for active dogs or busy pet parents who want a low-maintenance grooming routine. Though it’s not flashy, this cut is easy to maintain, helps prevent matting, and keeps your Poodle cool and comfortable year-round.

8. Miami Clip

Also known as the "Bikini Clip," the Miami Cut is both stylish and practical. It features shaved feet, face, and tail base, with a rounded topknot and full leg cuffs for a balanced, fashionable look. This cut is a favorite for Poodles that want to look polished but stay cool and clean in warmer climates.

9. Mohawk or Creative Cut

For pet parents who love to make a statement, the Mohawk or Creative Cut offers endless personality. This style includes fun shapes or dyed sections—like a colorful mohawk or patterns along the body. It’s perfect for playful, expressive dogs and owners alike, but should always be done using safe, dog-approved grooming dyes and techniques.

10. Corded Coat

The Corded Coat is a rare and visually striking look where the Poodle’s hair is trained into tight, rope-like cords—similar to dreadlocks. It’s a high-maintenance style that requires daily upkeep and precise technique to form and maintain the cords properly. While unique, it’s best reserved for experienced groomers or dedicated Poodle enthusiasts.

11. Dutch Cut

Vintage and playful, the Dutch Cut keeps the body short while leaving the legs, tail, and head full and fluffy. It creates a fun, flared-out appearance and is a great option for pet parents looking for something classic yet lighthearted. This cut offers moderate maintenance and works particularly well on Miniature and Standard Poodles.

12. Bichon-Inspired Cut

Blending the soft features of a Bichon Frise with the structure of a Poodle coat, the Bichon-Inspired Cut gives your dog a rounded, fluffy head and full, clean legs. It’s especially popular for Toy and Miniature Poodles and is perfect for pet parents who love a plush, show-ready look without the complexity of a full show trim.

13. English Saddle Cut

This elegant haircut is similar to the Continental Clip but features fuller legs and more coat coverage. The English Saddle Cut balances beauty and tradition with added warmth and body. It's still a high-maintenance option that requires precision and regular touch-ups, making it better suited for show dogs or experienced groomers.

14. Asian Fusion Cut

Trendy and whimsical, the Asian Fusion Cut is known for its exaggerated styling—like extra-rounded faces, dramatic leg shapes, and sometimes even accessories. It’s a favorite among creative groomers and dog show enthusiasts, offering a playful yet polished look. While adorable, this cut does require regular shaping to maintain its distinctive silhouette.

15. Natural/Long Cut with Light Trimming

For pet parents who love the look of long curls but want to keep things healthy and manageable, the Natural or Long Cut with Light Trimming is a perfect compromise. It keeps the coat full but removes bulk in key areas like the feet, face, and underarms. This style allows your Poodle to maintain their natural look while avoiding matting and discomfort.

DIY Grooming Guide for Every Poodle Cut

Yes, you can groom your Poodle at home! Here’s how to do it with confidence...

Tools You’ll Need for a Proper Poodle Cut

Before you start grooming, make sure you have these essential tools on hand to keep the process smooth, safe, and effective.

• Clippers (with multiple blades/guards)
• Curved scissors & thinning shears
• Slicker brush & metal comb
• Detangling spray
• Dog-safe shampoo & conditioner
• Blow dryer (with low heat setting)

Best Grooming Tools for Your Poodle

Not sure where to start when shopping for grooming supplies? These are our top-recommended tools that strike the right balance between quality, ease of use, and affordability:

• Clippers: Andis UltraEdge AGC2 or Wahl Bravura are quiet, powerful, and beginner-friendly.
• Blades/Guards: Look for #10 for sanitary areas and longer guards (3/4” or 1”) for fluffy finishes.
• Scissors: Kenchii Love Series Curved Scissors are great for rounding faces and feet.
• Thinning Shears: Sharf Gold Touch thinning shears help soften harsh lines.
• Brushes & Combs: Chris Christensen Slicker Brush and Greyhound-style metal comb for effective detangling.
• Detangler Spray: TropiClean Tangle Remover or The Stuff leave-in conditioner.
• Shampoo/Conditioner: Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo and Burt’s Bees for Dogs Conditioner are gentle and effective.
• Blow Dryer: A dog-specific high-velocity dryer like the Flying Pig Grooming Dryer cuts drying time significantly.

Investing in the right tools makes grooming easier, safer, and more comfortable for both you and your Poodle!

How to Safely Prep Your Poodle for Grooming

Next, prepping your Poodle properly sets the stage for a successful grooming session and helps avoid stress or injury. So, keep these key tips in mind:

• Brush first: Always remove tangles before bathing;
• Bathe thoroughly: Clean coats clip better;
• Dry completely: Wet fur clogs clippers;
• Create a calm space: Use treats and take breaks.

Grooming a Toy Poodle (under 10 lbs.)

These little pups have delicate features and may be more sensitive to grooming tools and noise. So, keep sessions short and sweet!

Step-by-Step:

1. Brush daily or every other day with a soft slicker brush to prevent mats.

2. Use quiet clippers and smaller grooming scissors to trim the face, feet, and tail.

3. Groom in 15–30 minute sessions to avoid overwhelm.

4. Wipe eyes and ears regularly to prevent tear stains and buildup.

5. Offer treats and praise throughout to create a positive experience.

Toy Poodle Haircut Tips

• Use smaller clippers and scissors
• Shorten sessions (under 30 minutes)
• Be gentle around the face and legs

Grooming a Miniature Poodle (10-15 lbs.)

Mini Poodles are the middle ground—big enough to handle longer sessions, but small enough to groom at home without much hassle.

Step-by-Step:

1. Brush 3–4 times per week, especially in friction areas (armpits, neck, behind ears).

2. Use a combination of clippers and curved scissors for a polished look.

3. Trim nails every 3–4 weeks using a grinder for safety.

4. Clip the face and feet monthly to maintain cleanliness.

5. Bathe every 2–3 weeks using a pH-balanced dog shampoo and conditioner.

Miniature Poodle Haircut Tips

• Comb regularly while drying
• Maintain balance between short and fluffy

Grooming a Standard Poodle (45-70+ lbs.)

Standard Poodles have more coat and surface area, so expect grooming to take longer—but the results are worth it!

Step-by-Step:

1. Brush daily, especially if your dog has a longer or fluffier cut like the Continental or Corded Coat.

2. Divide the grooming into sections (e.g., back, legs, face, tail) for manageability.

3. Use a high-velocity dryer after bathing to fully dry the dense coat and prevent matting.

4. Trim with longer guard combs to shape topknots and leg cuffs cleanly.

5. Plan for 45–60 minute sessions once every 4–6 weeks for full trims.

Standard Poodle Haircut Tips

• Clip in sections (back, legs, face)
• Use longer guard combs for topknot
• Allow for longer sessions (45–60 mins)

How Old Should a Poodle Be for Their First Haircut?

Most groomers suggest starting around 12–16 weeks, once your puppy has had their first round of vaccinations. Early exposure helps desensitize them to grooming for life.

 “I would recommend brushing your dog anywhere from once a day to once a week, and I would also recommend combing after you brush your dog with the same timeframe.” - Nadia Bongelli, award-winning dog groomer and Paw Parent Academy instructor

Grooming Frequency and Seasonal Style Tips

Your grooming schedule depends on coat length, activity level, and time of year.

How Often Should You Trim a Poodle?

Consistency is key with Poodle grooming! So, here's a quick breakdown of how often each task should be done to keep your pup looking and feeling great:

• Haircut: Every 4–6 weeks;
• Brushing: 2–3 times per week (daily for long coats);
• Bathing: Every 2–3 weeks, or as needed.

Poodle Grooming Frequency by Size

While all Poodles have curly, non-shedding coats, their grooming needs can vary by size.

Toy Poodles tend to mat more easily in tight areas like underarms and around the face, so gentle brushing 3–4 times a week and trims every 4–6 weeks are ideal.

Miniature Poodles benefit from a similar schedule but can usually handle slightly longer sessions and may need more frequent face trims to stay tidy.

Standard Poodles, with their larger bodies and denser coats, require daily brushing and regular trims every 4–6 weeks to prevent matting and maintain shape. Regardless of size, consistent grooming keeps your Poodle looking and feeling their best year-round.

Summer Toy Poodle Haircuts & Warm Weather Tips

Hot weather calls for specific grooming choices that help keep your Poodle cool and comfortable while protecting their skin. Thus, ensure to:

• Opt for short Poodle haircuts, like the kennel or summer cut;
• Always check for sunburn on shaved areas;
• Use light clothing or sunscreen for sensitive skin.

Winter Grooming for Longer Coats

On the other hand, during colder months, your Poodle’s coat can provide warmth. However, it still requires proper maintenance to avoid mats and discomfort. As such:

• Keep legs and chest longer;
• Avoid wet snow matting by trimming feet;
• Brush more often to prevent cold-weather mats.

When to Consider a Professional Groomer

While most Poodle grooming tasks can absolutely be done at home with the right guidance and tools, there are a few special cases where bringing in a professional might be helpful — especially as you're still building confidence. For example:

• You want a show-style trim (like the Continental Clip) that you’re unfamiliar with/have never done before;
• Your Poodle is extremely matted;
• Your pup is anxious or aggressive during grooming;
• You’re unsure about tools or technique and need just a little more guidance.

That said, with the right support — like our step-by-step online grooming courses — you can confidently handle almost all grooming needs at home. Most pet parents find that once they learn the basics, maintaining their Poodle’s haircut becomes a fun and rewarding part of their routine!

Pro Grooming Tips from Paw Parent Academy

Whether you go DIY or pro, these tips will make every grooming session smoother:

✔️ Start grooming when your dog is tired or post-walk!

✔️ Always detangle before using clippers!

✔️ Use blunt-tip scissors near the eyes!

✔️ Keep sessions short for new dogs!

✔️ Practice on the back legs first (less visible)!

Learn How To Groom Your Poodle at Home

Our DIY How To Groom a Goldendoodle (and Other Curly Coats) course is designed specifically for breeds with thick, curly fur like Poodles, Doodles, and more. You’ll get step-by-step video instruction, product recommendations, and pro-level techniques for brushing, detangling, trimming, and finishing.

Even if you’ve never picked up a clipper before, you’ll walk away with the confidence to keep your dog healthy, comfortable, and absolutely adorable—right from home!

Common Poodle Cut Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What does a poodle look like without a haircut? 

A: Without grooming, Poodles have dense, curly coats that mat easily and hide their body shape. For this reason, regular haircuts are essential.

Q: How old should a poodle be for their first haircut? 

A: 12–16 weeks is ideal, after your pup has been vaccinated.

Q: Can I groom my poodle at home? 

A: Absolutely! With the right tools and guidance (like our courses), many pet parents groom their dogs successfully.

Q: What’s the best haircut for summer? 

A: Short Poodle haircuts, like the kennel cut or summer shave, keep your dog cool while reducing matting.

Q: How often should I get my poodle groomed? 

A: Every 4–6 weeks for trims. Brushing, however, should happen several times per week.

Q: Is there a difference between toy and standard poodle grooming? 

A: Yes — standard Poodles can handle longer sessions and need more brushing. Alternately, toy Poodles benefit from gentler tools and shorter appointments.