How to Give Your Dog the Perfect Puppy Cut at Home: Step-by-Step Grooming Guide for Every Breed

Puppy Cut Key Points

• A puppy cut is an even trim (½–2 inches) that’s simple to maintain at home.
• It works for all breeds and ages—not just puppies.
• Helps reduce matting, shedding, and grooming stress.
• Beginner-friendly and more versatile than teddy bear or kennel cuts.
• With basic tools, pet parents can groom safely, affordably, and stress-free at home.

Introduction

You don’t need a fancy grooming salon to give your dog a fresh, adorable look! The puppy cut is one of the easiest, most practical styles for pet parents to master at home. Whether you’ve got a curly-coated Poodle or a fluffy Shih Tzu, this low-maintenance haircut helps keep your dog clean, cool, and cuddly—all while saving you money and stress.

👉 Want to learn how to groom your dog like a pro without ever stepping into a salon? Then you’re in the right place!

What Is a Puppy Cut? (And Why It’s So Popular)

First, let’s clear up the confusion around one of the most commonly requested (and misunderstood) styles in dog grooming.

What Is Considered a Puppy Cut?

Despite the name, a “puppy cut” has nothing to do with age. Rather, it’s a grooming style that keeps the dog’s coat one uniform length all over—usually between ½ inch to 2 inches. Think soft, manageable, and tidy!

This even-length trim:

• Reduces matting and tangles;
• Makes brushing easier;
• Helps dogs stay cooler in warm months;
• And looks irresistibly cute!

Best of all? It’s one of the easiest haircuts for pet parents to do at home.

Puppy Cut Poodle Style: Not Just for Puppies!

Despite the name, the puppy cut isn’t just for puppies—it’s a smart, low-maintenance grooming option for adult dogs of all breeds. Whether you’ve got a Poodle, Shih Tzu, Goldendoodle, or mixed breed, this even-length trim makes life easier for both you and your pup.

Why adult dogs love the puppy cut:

• It’s great for active dogs who get dirty or matted easily!
• It helps long-haired breeds stay cool and tangle-free!
• It’s perfect for pet parents who want a clean, manageable style year-round!

And yes, it’s especially popular for Poodles of all sizes (Toy, Miniature, and Standard) because it keeps their curly coats neat without complicated shaping. 

So if you’re looking for a grooming style that’s simple, stylish, and universally flattering, the puppy cut is your best friend—no matter your dog’s age or breed!

The Difference Between Puppy Cut, Teddy Bear Cut & Other Grooming Styles

If you’ve ever heard a dog groomer throw around terms like “teddy bear cut,” “kennel cut,” or “summer trim,” you’re not alone. Here’s how they stack up.

Puppy Cut vs. Teddy Bear Cut

A puppy cut is even all over, typically using clippers with the same guard length on the whole body. On the other hand, a teddy bear cut focuses on keeping the face full and round (think stuffed animal vibes!).

Puppy Cut vs. Kennel Cut or Summer Trim

If the puppy cut is balanced and plush, the kennel cut is all about convenience. It’s usually the shortest length a clipper can go. This makes this hairstyle perfect for summer or high-shedding breeds.

Kennel Cut/Summer Trim:

If you're considering the shortest possible cut for your dog, the kennel cut—also known as a summer trim—is a practical option for hot climates and active pups. Here are 3 quick tips to keep in mind for this particular cut:

• Close shave (⅛ inch or less)
• Super low-maintenance
• May not suit dogs with sun sensitivity

When to choose a puppy cut over a summer shave:

While summer trims have their benefits, there are several reasons why a puppy cut might be the better choice for both comfort and style:

• You want your dog to still feel fluffy
• You’re learning to groom and want a forgiving length
• You want a versatile look that suits every season

Ultimately, the puppy cut strikes the perfect balance between practicality and appearance. It’s soft enough to cuddle, short enough to manage, and simple enough for beginners to master at home. If you're not quite ready to commit to a super-short shave, the puppy cut offers an ideal starting point that keeps your dog looking adorable year-round!

How to Do a Puppy Cut at Home (Tools, Setup & Safety Tips)

Salon appointments are expensive and stressful for many dogs. With the right tools and a little practice, you can give your dog a salon-worthy trim right from the comfort of home instead.

Essential Tools You’ll Need

Before you start, make sure your grooming kit includes:

• Clippers with detachable blades or guard combs
• Curved scissors for shaping the face and paws
• Slicker brush and steel comb
• Dog shampoo and conditioner
• Towels or a non-slip mat
• Dog-safe detangling spray
• Nail clippers and styptic powder (just in case)

Best Puppy Cut Grooming Products

Not sure where to start when it comes to brushes, clippers, or shampoos? We’ve compiled our top picks—perfect for pet parents grooming at home!

Here’s what we recommend for a successful puppy cut session:

Clippers:

• Andis ProClip 2-Speed Clipper
• Wahl Bravura Lithium Ion Cordless Clipper

Scissors & Shears:

• Curved grooming scissors with rounded tips
• Thinning shears for blending (optional)

Shampoo & Conditioner:

• Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo
• TropiClean Hypoallergenic Gentle Coconut Conditioner

Detangling Spray:

• The Stuff Dog Conditioner & Detangler
• Chris Christensen Ice on Ice

Brushes & Combs:

• Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
• Greyhound-style steel comb

Step-by-Step Grooming Guide

Here’s how to give your dog a puppy cut from start to finish:

How Often Should You Re-Cut?

To keep your dog’s coat manageable and fresh:

• Trim every 4–6 weeks;
• Brush 2–3 times a week (or even daily!);
• Watch for telltale signs: longer hair around the paws, tangles behind ears, or “fuzzy” eyes.

Breed-Specific Puppy Cut Tips: Poodles, Doodles & More

This is where most blog articles stop short—but we’re going deeper. After all, puppy cuts are NOT one-size-fits-all. Here’s how to customize the cut for different breeds.

Poodle Puppy Cut (Toy, Miniature & Standard)

Poodles are the poster pups for puppy cuts, thanks to their curly, non-shedding coats.

• Toy Poodle Puppy Cut: Shorter clip (½ inch) works best. Face and feet often get a slight trim for hygiene.
• Miniature Poodle Puppy Cut: Medium length (¾ inch). Fluffy ears and tail are optional flourishes.
• Standard Poodle Puppy Cut: Requires more time to clip due to size. Use longer guards (1 inch) for plushness.

Doodles (Goldendoodle, Labradoodle)

These coats vary from soft waves to tight curls. A puppy cut helps manage both. Keep these tips in mind:

• Clip to ¾ inch for easy brushing
• Check for mats behind the ears and under the arms
• Keep the face trimmed short to avoid eye irritation

Shih Tzu and Double-Coated Breeds

For these pups, puppy cuts reduce shedding and make brushing easier. Remember to:

• Use a longer guard (1 inch or more)
• Keep the tail feathered or clip it short for cleanliness
• Trim around eyes regularly between cuts

Bathing Before the Cut: Choosing the Best Dog Shampoo

You can’t get a good cut without a clean coat—full stop. Therefore, choose your shampoo based on your dog’s individual skin and coat needs.

Best Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin or Allergies

Look for soothing ingredients like:

• Oatmeal
• Chamomile
• Aloe
• Coconut oil

Avoid artificial dyes, parabens, and heavy fragrances.

Controlling Odor with the Right Products

Want that fresh-groomed smell to last?

• Use deodorizing shampoos with citrus or baking soda
• Follow up with a light leave-in conditioner spray

Pro Tips for Safer, Smoother Puppy Cuts at Home

Make grooming time easier for you and your pup:

✔️ Start after exercise—your dog will be calmer
✔️ Use a grooming mat or table with traction
✔️ Keep sessions short—under 30 minutes is ideal
✔️ Use round-tip scissors for face and paws
✔️ If unsure, leave more length—you can always trim again

🧡 Remember: At-home grooming isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection, comfort, and keeping your pup healthy and happy.

Ready to Master At-Home Grooming? Join Paw Parent Academy Today

You don’t need fancy shears or years of experience to give your dog a beautiful puppy cut. You just need the right tools, a bit of guidance, and the confidence to try.

That’s where we come in!

Paw Parent Academy is your go-to resource for learning how to groom your dog at home. Our online courses are designed for everyday pet parents—no fluff, no jargon, just real results.

In our online DIY grooming courses, you’ll learn step-by-step techniques that walk you through every part of the grooming process—from brushing to trimming—with clear, easy-to-follow guidance. We provide detailed instructions and safety tips to help you choose and use the right tools with confidence. You’ll also get access to video demonstrations from award-winning dog groomer, Nadia Bongelli, so you can see exactly how it’s done. 

Best of all, you’ll be able to groom your dog in the comfort of your own home, at your own pace—no salon visits needed!

Puppy Cut Grooming Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a puppy cut last?

Most dogs need a touch-up every 4–6 weeks.

Can I give my dog a puppy cut at home?

Yes! With the right clippers and a little prep, it’s completely doable.

Is a puppy cut good for summer?

Absolutely. It helps dogs stay cool while still protecting their skin.

What’s the difference between a puppy cut and a teddy bear cut?

The teddy bear cut leaves the face round and fluffy. The puppy cut is even all over.

What’s the best dog shampoo to use before a puppy cut?

Use a hypoallergenic formula with oatmeal, aloe, or chamomile for best results.