Poodle (Standard) Haircut Styles

Which Style Is Right for Your Poodle (Standard)?

Your Poodle (Standard) has a curly single coat coat that requires significant maintenance. Choosing the right style can make a huge difference in your daily grooming routine.

Our recommendation: Puppy Cut — easy to maintain, comfortable, and practical for most owners.

All Poodle (Standard) Styles

Continental Clip

The classic Poodle show cut — shaved hindquarters, pom-poms on legs and tail, full chest and head. Very high maintenance.

Maintenance: Very High Add-on Cost: +$20–$40

Lamb Cut

Short body with fluffy legs, giving a "lamb-like" appearance. Body is clipped close while legs are scissored to a fuller length.

Maintenance: Medium Add-on Cost: +$5–$15

Miami Cut

Also called the "Bikini Cut" — shaved body with pom-poms on all four legs and tail. Clean, athletic look for Poodles.

Maintenance: Medium Add-on Cost: +$10–$20

Teddy Bear Cut

Uniform 1–2 inch length all over, rounded face — the most popular pet cut. Gives a cuddly, puppy-like appearance that's easy to maintain between grooms.

Maintenance: Medium Add-on Cost: +$0–$10

Puppy Cut

Even length all over (usually ½–1 inch), clean face and feet. Simple, practical, and comfortable — ideal for active dogs or warm climates.

Maintenance: Low Add-on Cost: +$0

Scandinavian Clip

Clean face and feet, topknot, tail pom-pom, even body length. A modern alternative to traditional Poodle clips.

Maintenance: Medium-High Add-on Cost: +$15–$25

Choosing Based on Your Lifestyle

If you...	Best style	Why
Want minimum brushing	Puppy Cut	Short, even length is easiest to maintain
Want the cutest look	Teddy Bear Cut	Rounded, fluffy appearance that everyone loves
Have an active dog	Puppy Cut	Practical and comfortable for adventurous pets
Want the breed-standard look	Continental Clip	Classic look that showcases breed characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best haircut for a Poodle (Standard)?

The most popular Poodle (Standard) haircut is the Puppy Cut — easy to maintain, comfortable, and practical for most owners. However, the best style depends on your lifestyle and how much time you can dedicate to at-home grooming.

Can I get my Poodle (Standard) a Teddy Bear Cut?

Yes! The Teddy Bear Cut is one of the most popular styles for Poodle (Standard)s. It gives a soft, puppy-like appearance with uniform length all over.

How do I maintain my Poodle (Standard)'s haircut between grooms?

Between professional grooming sessions (every 4–6 weeks), brush your Poodle (Standard) daily or every other day. Focus on areas prone to matting like behind the ears, armpits, and belly. A slicker brush and metal comb are essential tools.

How short can I cut my Poodle (Standard)'s hair?

Most Poodle (Standard) styles can go fairly short. A Puppy Cut typically leaves 1/2 to 1 inch of length. Going shorter than 1/4 inch risks razor burn. Talk to your groomer about the shortest safe length for your dog's coat type.