Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

11 Low-Maintenance Poodle Cuts (With Info & Pictures)

Professional male groomer making haircut of poodle

Although Poodles don’t shed, they require frequent grooming to keep their coats healthy. If you’re looking for a poodle cut that doesn’t require a lot of maintenance, you’ve come to the right place! In this post, we will discuss 11 low-maintenance poodle cuts that are perfect for busy pet owners. Whether you’re short on time or just don’t want to deal with the hassle of brushing and bathing your dog regularly, these cuts are for you!

divider single dog paw oct 2024

The 11 Low-Maintenance Poodle Cuts

1. The Puppy Cut

Red (brown) standard poodle with the cut of golden doodle looking into the camera with sweet expression
Image Credit: Ruta Zukauskaite, Shutterstock

The Puppy Cut is an excellent option for those who want an easy-to-maintain poodle cut. This style keeps the hair short all over the body, including the face, legs, and tail. It’s perfect for summertime since it helps keep your pup cool and comfortable in the heat. The Puppy Cut is also a good choice for those who don’t want to spend a lot of time brushing and bathing their dog.


2. The Teddy Bear Cut

poodle teddy dog playing outdoors
Image Credit: w583254846, Shutterstock

The Teddy Bear Cut is similar to the Puppy Cut, but the hair on the face is left longer. This gives your dog a cute, teddy bear-like appearance. The Teddy Bear Cut is a low-maintenance option for those who want their poodle to look like a stuffed animal!


3. The Lion Cut

One poodle breed dog with black hair with grooming standing outdoors on green grass
Image Credit: TatyanaPanova, Shutterstock

The Lion Cut is perfect for pet owners who want a low-maintenance poodle cut but still want their dog to look stylish. This style leaves the hair long on the top of the head, giving your dog a mane-like appearance. The hair on the rest of the body is kept short. The Lion Cut is a good choice for those who want their poodle to stand out from the crowd.


4. The Standard Cut

white and brown poodle dog sitting
Image Credit: Anna_Bondarenko, Shutterstock

The Standard Cut is a classic poodle cut that is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance style. It keeps the hair short all over the body, including the face, legs, and tail. It looks like the Puppy Cut, but the hair on the head is left a bit longer. The Standard Cut is a good choice for those who don’t want to spend much time brushing and bathing their dog.


5. The Continental Cut

elegeant standard poodle with continental cut walking outdoors
Image Credit: Volodymyr TVERDOKHLIB, Shutterstock

The Continental Cut is a bit more sophisticated than the Standard Cut. This style keeps the hair short on the body but leaves the hair longer on the face, legs, and tail. The Continental Cut is a good choice for those who want their poodle to resemble a show dog. You have to maintain this cut if you want it to retain its shape, which requires brushing and trims. However, it’s not too difficult to maintain.


6. The Miami Vice Cut

standard poodle at the beach
Image by: everydoghasastory, Shutterstock

The Miami Vice Cut is perfect for those who want their dog to stand out from the crowd. This style keeps the hair short on the body but leaves it longer on the face, legs, and tail. The Miami Vice Cut is a good choice for those who want their poodle to look like a celebrity dog.


7. The Kennel Cut

standard poodle in river
Image by: Janine Reedeker, Shutterstock

The Kennel Cut is a practical poodle cut perfect for those who want an easy-to-maintain style. It keeps the hair short all over the body, including the face, legs, and tail, so the dog looks like a professional groomer has trimmed them. To do this cut, focus on keeping the hair short all over the body.


8. The Dutch Cut

The Dutch Cut looks like the Standard Cut but with slightly longer hair. This style keeps the hair short all over the body, including the face, legs, and tail. The Dutch Cut is a good choice for those who want their poodle to look even and close-cut. A longer cut can allow for more curls but will require more brushing.


9. Corded Coat Cut

Happy Brown Corded Poodle Running
Image by: Aneta Jungerova, Shutterstock

The Corded Coat Cut is ideal for owners who are tired of the typical Poodle cuts. This style leaves the hair long on the top of the head and forms the rest of the hair into thick cords. The Corded Coat Cut is a good choice for those who want their poodle to stand out from the crowd.


10. Lamb Clip

standard parti poodle dog
Image by: Racheal Grazias, Shutterstock

The Lamb Clip is a cute poodle cut perfect for those who want their dog to look like a lamb! This style keeps the hair short all over the body, including the face, legs, and tail, but the hair on the head and ears is longer. The Lamb Clip is a good choice for those who want their poodle to look like a stuffed animal.


11. The Shih Tzu Cut

poodle sitting on weighing scale
Image by: Boryana Manzurova, Shutterstock

The Shih Tzu Cut is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance poodle to cut but still want their dog to have a bit of personality. This style leaves the hair long on the top of the head, and the hair on the rest of the body is kept short. The Shih Tzu Cut is similar to the Puppy Cut, but the body hair is slightly longer.

divider single dog paw oct 2024

Poodle Cuts FAQ

white toy poodle standing on grass
Image by: Nico Perez, Shutterstock

Do all poodle cuts require professional grooming?

No, some poodle cuts can be done at home with the right tools and products. However, we recommend taking your dog to a professional groomer if you’re unsure of how to do the cut yourself.

How often should I get my poodle cut?

It depends on the style you choose. Some poodle cuts require more frequent grooming than others. You can consult your groomer to determine how often you should schedule a visit.

What are the benefits of getting a poodle cut?

Poodle cuts can help reduce shedding, matting, and tangles. They can also make your dog look and feel more comfortable.

Are there any disadvantages to getting a poodle cut?

The main disadvantage of getting a poodle cut is the cost. Professional grooming can be expensive, and you must factor it into your budget. Additionally, some poodle cuts require frequent grooming.

Dogster divider_v3_NEW_MAY_24_

Our Favorite Grooming Products

When it comes to choosing the right products for grooming your pup and avoiding skin irritation, there are two products we cannot recommend highly enough. The Oatmeal Pet Shampoo from Hepper is formulated with aloe and oatmeal to soothe skin and hydrate the coat; and for a convenient on-the-go option to quickly refresh sensitive areas, Hepper's Wash Wipes will help you keep your dog clean from head to tail with moisturizing ingredients. Both products are pH-balanced and formulated with pet-friendly ingredients, free of harsh soaps, chemicals, and dyes. Give this duo a try to soothe, heal and nourish your dog's coat, and leave them with an irresistible just-left-the-spa cucumber and aloe scent.

Image Product Details
For Bathing Hepper Oatmeal Pet Shampoo Hepper Oatmeal Pet Shampoo
  • Safe for Dogs & Cats
  • Soothing Oatmeal
  • Lightly Scented
  • For On-The-Go Hepper Wash Wipes Hepper Wash Wipes
  • On-the-go cleaning
  • Sensitive Areas
  • Gentle & effective
  • At Dogster, we've admired Hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool pet company!

    divider single dog paw oct 2024

    Conclusion

    Poodle cuts can be a great way to reduce shedding, matting, and tangles. They can also make your dog look and feel more comfortable. However, they can be expensive, and some styles require frequent grooming. Before you decide on a cut, consult your groomer to find out what will work best for your dog.

    See Also:


    Featured Image Credit: BONDART PHOTOGRAPHY, Shutterstock

    Want content like this delivered to you?

    Sign Up For Our Newsletter

    News, insights, expert advice, and everything dog

    * By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

    How useful was this post?

    Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

    Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

    Your feedback really matters.

    What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

    Join the conversation

    3 Responses

    1. Almost all of these are high maintenance cuts, the only truly “low maintenance cut” is to shave the dog as short as possible all over the body, allowing the hair a long time to grow out before needing grooming again. Do NOT get a poodle OR a doodle if you don’t plan on brushing it daily, or several times a week at the very least.

      1. Hi!

        That’s a fair point, none of these styles are completely maintenance-free. The article’s aim was to highlight cuts that are lower maintenance compared to traditional show trims, but regular brushing and grooming are still essential for any poodle or doodle. Your reminder about the level of care these breeds require is absolutely valid and we appreciate it 🙂

        Thanks for your comment!

    2. Great post! These low-maintenance poodle cuts are not only stylish but also practical for keeping dogs comfortable and healthy. The detailed info with pictures makes it easy for owners to choose the best grooming style.

    Leave a Reply

    You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

    Talk With A Vet Online

    Peace of mind,
    anywhere, anytime

    Affordable vet advice

    Are Dogs Allowed in Walgreens? (2025 Update)

    For many owners, dogs are a big part of their lives and their family unit. Many dog owners take their pets with them...

    BHA & BHT: Dog Food Ingredients to Avoid

    You would be forgiven for thinking that dog food manufacturers would only use high-quality and healthy ingredients in their dog food. After all,...

    2 Dog Friendly Trails in the Grand Canyon in 2025 (With Pictures & Tips)

    Are you planning a trip to the Grand Canyon and want to bring your furry friend along? Well, the Grand Canyon is one...

    Wolf Spider Bite on Dog: 6 Steps to Treat It (Vet Answer)

    Do you need to panic if a wolf spider has bitten your dog? Thankfully, no. Wolf spiders are not venomous. Their bites might...

    More related

    Do Goats and Dogs Get Along? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

    Dogs can be great companions for those living in the countryside with livestock, including goats. While some keep them as pets, others use...

    What Is the Ideal Room Temperature for a Dog? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

    You won’t see a dog waving a fan in its face to cool off or putting on a pair of fuzzy slippers to...

    Cane Corso Presa Canario Mix: Info, Pictures, Care & More

    When people hear the phrase “designer dogs”, it brings to mind cutesy poodle mixes and purse-sized pets. But this designer dog bucks the...

    10 Dog Breeds Most Likely to Be Stolen (With Statistics)

    There are few more painful experiences than having your pet go missing. No one wants to think about their best friend being stolen,...

    Keep reading

    Buying Dog Food In Bulk: Benefits & Risks

    According to statistics, the typical American dog owner spends an average of $1,380 annually on their dog’s basic expenses.1 While our pooches deserve the world, $1,380 is a lot. As such, any avenue that allows us to save on pet...

    dog food_Shutterstock_Ekaterina Markelova

    Can Dogs Eat Sour Patch Kids? Keep Your Dog Healthy!

    If your dog begs for any food you put in your mouth, it probably won’t stop just because you’re eating something unsafe for them. That’s why it’s important to know which human snacks dogs can eat. Sour Patch Kids candy...

    Can Dogs Eat_patch kids

    9 Best Dog Foods for a Yorkie Poo in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

    If you are the lucky owner of a Yorkie Poo, you are familiar with how such a large personality can come in a tiny package. There is no doubt you will be in search of the best dog food to...

    Brown Yorkie Poo standing in the grass

    Can Dogs Eat Eggs? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

    Eggs are popular items in most American refrigerators. People use them in a wide variety of recipes, so it is only natural to wonder if dogs can eat them too. The short answer is yes. Your dog can eat eggs...

    Can Dogs Eat_eggs

    What Seasonings Can Dogs Have Safely? 6 Vet-Approved Options

    We all know that seasonings can be extremely dangerous to dogs if they get a hold of the wrong ones. Knowing what’s in your spice cabinet can really help you protect your canine companions from harm. Keep in mind that...

    chocolate labrador dog eating food from bowl

    Does Rachael Ray Dog Food Come From China? Facts & Recall History

    Rachael Ray Dog Food is known for being a relatively affordable dog food brand with good quality formulas and nutritious recipes. This brand sources its ingredients and manufactures its food in multiple locations, but none of these locations include any...

    Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Variety Pack Wet Dog Food

    Can Dogs Eat Rotisserie Chicken? Vet-Approved Benefits, Risks, & FAQ

    Who can resist the mouthwatering aroma of a perfectly cooked rotisserie chicken? Whether it’s a family gathering, a summer picnic, or a quick and convenient dinner option, rotisserie chicken has become a popular choice for many. But what about our...

    Can Dogs Eat_Rotisserie Chicken

    13 DIY Dog Bowl Stand Plans You Can Make Today (With Pictures)

    Dog bowl stands can make meals more enjoyable for your dog. Raised bowls can help ease joint and neck pain in elderly dogs and those with arthritis. They can also help large breeds eat easier without having to lower their...

    black dog eating dr. marty nature's blend dog food