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

    Giving your Poodle a fresh cut 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

    How to Teach Your Dog to Play Nicely With Other Dogs: 9 Tips & Tricks

    Whether your dog is a guard dog or a family house pet, it’s important that it gets along with other dogs, especially in...

    Top 10 Dog-Friendly Beaches in South Carolina: On & Off-Leash Places

    South Carolina is one of the most popular beach destinations. Whether it’s Myrtle Beach or Sullivan’s Island, there’s much to do on the...

    9 Cranberry Dog Treats Recipes to Make for Your Pup

    Check with a veterinarian before adding any new foods to your pet’s diet, particularly if your pet has any underlying health conditions or...

    Samoyed Pomeranian Mix: Info, Pictures, Care & More

    The Samoyed Pomeranian mix is a wonderful dog that has been getting more popular in recent years due to their friendly personality. If...

    More related

    National Poodle Day 2026: When It Is & How You Can Celebrate

    Whether they’re a toy, miniature, or standard Poodle, there are very few pet owners, or even non-pet owners, who don’t know how gorgeous,...

    My Dog Is Urinating While Lying Down: 6 Causes & Vet Approved Solutions

    Urinary problems in dogs are not unusual, but when you see a dog leaking urine while they’re lying down, it’s time to visit...

    The Best of 2026: Dr. Karyn’s 5 Favorite Posts

    Hi, I’m Dr. Karyn! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my five funny dogs, Poppy, Bailey, Kodah, Ned, and Fred....

    Why Do Corgis Have Short Legs? Breed Anatomy & Facts

    Corgis are adorably small dogs that are usually between 9–11 inches tall and weigh between 22–44 pounds. This dog breed is known for...

    Keep reading

    Only Natural Pet Dog Food Review 2026: Recalls, Pros & Cons

    Review Summary If you’re interested in grain-free dog foods that come in multiple recipes and varieties, then dog food from Only Natural Pet may be exactly what you’re looking for. Whether you prefer to feed your dog an ancestral diet...

    Dogster_Only Natural Pet Dog Food Review

    Can Dogs Eat Relish? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

    Most dogs are not picky when it comes to what they are eating. They’ll scarf down almost anything that a human companion offers them, and they love rummaging through the garbage for scraps or snatching a piece of food found...

    Can Dogs Eat Relish

    9 Best Dog Foods for Bullmastiffs in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks

    With so many dog food brands available, it can be difficult to know exactly which is right for your pooch. Some breeds might need higher protein due to their higher activity levels, and some need to focus on weight management....

    Bullmastiff dog standing outdoor

    10 Best Wet Dog Foods for Weight Loss in 2026: Reviews & Top Picks

    Sadly, many domestic dogs today are obese. In fact, nearly 50% of all domestic dogs in North America between 5 and 11 years of age weigh more than they should1. Obesity can be extremely dangerous for a number of reasons....

    jack russell terrier dog wrapped with measuring tape sitting on the scale

    8 Best Foods for French Bulldog Puppies in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks

    With their small stature and adoring personalities, French Bulldogs are among the most popular medium to small dog breeds. Frenchies are well known for their happy-go-lucky personalities and cute faces. Their easy-going nature extends to their food, and they are...

    french bulldog eating food from bowl

    7 Golden Rules for Feeding Your Dog: Vet-Verified Advice & Info

    As a dog owner, you know the key to your pup’s good health is proper nutrition. Navigating the different types of dog food out there can be confusing. You want to make sure they are getting what they need, but...

    Dog Feeding Schedule

    Can Dogs Eat Warm Food? Vet-Verified Benefits, Risks & Facts

    Though most dog food formulas are designed for straight-into-the-bowl convenience, some people opt to warm them up before their pooch tucks in. Feeding your dog warm food is perfectly fine as long as it’s suitable for heating up (freeze-dried raw...

    Can Dogs Eat Warm Food

    Can Dogs Eat Blueberry Muffins? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & Alternatives

    Dogs can enjoy many foods that humans eat, and they’re experts at convincing us to share our food with them. Since they can eat many fruits and vegetables that humans also eat, it’s best to choose healthier options than junk...

    Can-Dogs-Eat-Blueberry-Muffins