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

    10 Common Maltipoo Colors (With Info & Pictures)

    A Maltipoo, as its name reveals, is a mix between a Maltese and a Poodle. While most Maltipoos have a combination of Maltese...

    Purina One Lamb and Rice Dog Food Review 2025: Recalls, Pros & Cons

    Review Summary Purina is an extremely popular dog food company. They are the most popular dog food company in the United States. They...

    Top 14 Dog-Friendly Beaches in North Carolina: Off-Leash & On-Leash Places to Go

    North Carolina is a fantastic vacation destination that is known for being full of southern charm and delicious food. This state truly has...

    How to Train Your Dog with Love + Science Book Review 2025: Canine Coaching You’ll Enjoy

    As a retired dog trainer with a formal education in animal behavior, I probably read a lot more training books than most dog...

    More related

    F1 vs. F1B Goldendoodle: The Key Differences (With Pictures)

    The Goldendoodle is one of the most popular designer breeds on the market, and for good reason. They embody all the characteristics of...

    Do Hedgehogs & Dogs Get Along? Vet-Reviewed Facts, Temperament & Behavior

    Hedgehogs and dogs: These are two different species that seem quite opposite to each other. One is soft and the other is spiny;...

    10 Basic Dog Training Hand Signals, & How to Use Them (With Infographic)

    Training your dog can be both a rewarding and complex process. Each dog will be completely different in the way that they interact...

    10 Surprising Canada Cat & Dog Neutering Statistics to Know in 2025

    Note: This article’s statistics come from third-party sources and do not represent the opinions of this website. Neutering is considered a part of...

    Keep reading

    10 Best Dog Treats for Large Dogs in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

    You love giving your dog tasty treats every now and then, whether for a job well-done, as part of a puzzle toy, or just to spoil them. But not all dog treats are created equal. What might be excellent for...

    dog eating appetizing treat

    Can Dogs Eat Mexican Rice? Vet-Verified Facts & Tips

    It’s not unusual for people to search for ideas on new things for their dogs to eat. Pet owners want their dogs to enjoy new things from time to time instead of routine dog food. Considering that rice is often...

    Can Dogs Eat Mexican Rice

    Wellness Dog Food Review 2025: Pros, Cons & Recalls

    Review Summary Wellpet LLC, an umbrella company based near Boston, Massachusetts, manufactures Wellness dog food. The company arose from an earlier dog biscuit manufacturer called Old Mother Hubbard, which was founded in 1873 as a bakery. Wellness has been a...

    Dogster_Wellness Dog Food Review

    Can Dogs Eat Custard? Vet Approved Advice

    Pastries and sweets are delicacies that us humans enjoy regularly. As curious creatures, dogs will often show interest in our food. It is no secret that dogs will beg you for a taste of whatever delicious snack you’re eating! As...

    Can Dogs Eat_Custard

    7 Best Dog Foods for Pitbulls to Gain Muscle in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

    As pet owners, we all want our companions to thrive and give them the best we can give them when it comes to their nutrition. If you own a Pitbull, you understand that public perception has missed the mark, and...

    pitbull eating

    Can Dogs Eat Squid? Vet-Verified Health Benefits & FAQ

    Dogs can eat squid in small amounts occasionally. The squid must be cooked to ensure that there aren’t any food-borne illnesses in the squid. Seasonings should also be avoided, as many are toxic to dogs. Squid itself is completely fine,...

    Can Dogs Eat_squid

    Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Dog Food Review 2025: Our Expert’s Opinion

    Review Summary Dr. Marty is a pet food company founded by long-time veterinarian, Dr. Marty, whose focus for the past 45 years has been on creating healthy and nutritious all-natural foods for dogs and cats. Dr. Marty’s mission is to...

    Dogster_Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Dog Food Review

    Can Dogs Drink Tea? Vet-Approved Nutrition Facts & FAQ

    Sometimes, it’s nice giving your canine companion a treat you know they’ll love, and occasionally, those treats are something you would eat or drink too. Take tea, for example. Plenty of people enjoy tea because of its various flavors and...

    Dogster-Can-Dogs-Drink-Tea