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Poodles have a naturally curly or wavy coat that needs to be trimmed or clipped every six to eight weeks. Going to a professional groomer for a Poodle cut regularly can quickly add up in terms of expenses.
In this piece, we’ll suggest some simple Poodle cuts that require as little maintenance as possible. We’ll also go over some of the grooming tools you’ll need for a perfect Poodle cut to get the style you want for your pet.
Most Popular Poodle Cuts
1. Summer Cut
As the name says, this is the Poodle cut ideal for those hot summer days. This style allows them to cool down during the hot months by allowing air to pass through and circulate on their skin. The hair can retain cool air, keeping them from overheating.
The length is usually around 1/4 of an inch all over the body, with the hair around the tail clipped like a pom pom. The hair surrounding the ears is also kept long. The length allows for enough hair to protect them from the sun while also preventing sunburn.
2. Puppy Cut
This is a popular Poodle cut in which the coat is clipped to a uniform length all over the body, often 1 to 2 inches long. The hair on the top of the head and chest is slightly longer, while the hair on the sides of the head and back is shorter. The overall result is that they resemble their puppy days when their coat appeared fluffier and softer.
The ideal technique to perform this Poodle cut is to place a lengthy guard attachment over the blade of the clipper. Thinning scissors can be used to smooth up any uneven edges or clipper marks.
3. Teddy Bear Cut
This Poodle cut is similar to the Puppy Cut, but the mane around their neck and muzzle is trimmed minimally and roundly shaped to resemble a teddy bear. The hair surrounding the ears is also clipped a little, as are the ones around the eyes just to make them stand out.
The roundness of the muzzle and the paws can be accentuated by sculpting with a curving scissor, while the length of the body hair is uniformly clipped around 1 to 2 inches long. To enhance the coat’s curliness, it should not be cut too short.
4. Standard Cut
Many owners of toy and medium-sized Poodles choose the Standard Cut. This technique maintains the long and fluffy look by keeping the body coat around 3 inches or longer. The fur around the face and nose is shaved or cut short, and the top knot and ears are longer. This style necessitates frequent brushing to protect the coat from becoming tangled and producing mats.
5. Continental Clip
This is the Poodle cut often seen in dog shows. There are many variations of this elegant cut but it is mainly characterized by a shaved muzzle, neck, upper leg, and thigh area. The top knot down to the chest and upper back are kept long and carefully shaped, while the tail and lower legs are shaped like a pom pom.
This is a more complicated cut and requires some experience to achieve that dog show look. It also needs regular maintenance to keep its style and shape.
Best Tools for Grooming Your Poodle
Now that we have discussed the most popular Poodle cuts, it is time to discuss the proper tools to use to achieve the kind of look you want for your Poodle.
1. Andis ProClip Excel 5-Speed Detachable Blade Grooming Clipper
With its 5-speed rotary motor, the Andis ProClip Excel Clipper can handle practically any type of coat, including wavy, curly, and extremely matted ones. The higher speeds provide power and precision in cutting, while the lower speeds provide less noise and vibration, making it excellent for nervous Poodles.
It includes a soft grip and an anti-slip housing, and the 14-foot cord allows you to use the clippers with ease and movement for any Poodle cut.
2. Wahl Professional Animal Bravmini+ Cordless Pet Trimmer
For in-between full grooms, this Wahl Pet Trimmer is equipped with a #45 blade that can cut 1/32 of an inch which is perfect for preventing the Poodle cut from getting too messy, as well as tidying up the fur around the face, ears, and paws. The rechargeable trimmer can run for nearly 2 hours on one full charge and has a quiet motor with low vibration.
3. GLADOG Professional 5 in-1 Dog Grooming Scissors Set
The GLADDOG Scissors set comes in a small leather case and comprises a straight scissor, a thinning shear, a curved scissor, and a comb. The scissor tips are gently rounded with soft finger inlays, making them easy to use and comfortable to hold.
The 6.5-inch scissor length is suitable for beginner groomers, providing smooth movement and balance while finishing the Poodle cut.
4. Safari Curved Firm Slicker Dog Brush
5. Wahl Premium Pet Double-Sided Pin Bristle Brush
Pin brushes are ideal for finishing up and combing through after a Poodle cut. The Wahl Premium Double-Sided Pin Brush is great at removing loose and cut fur thanks to its patented double-stack or dual-level stainless steel pin design.
Furthermore, the soft nylon bristles on the opposite side spread natural oils on the skin, giving the coat a lustrous and smooth finish.
Useful Tips on Trimming Your Poodle At Home
- Make sure your Poodle is relaxed and calm.
- Brush, bathe, dry, and brush again before doing a Poodle cut.
- Keep your tools in good shape.
- Take it slowly with the clippers and follow the direction of hair growth.
- If you’re doubtful of your abilities, have your Poodle groomed professionally.
Conclusion
Giving your Poodle a haircut at home may take some practice and patience on your part. Any Poodle cut takes time to master and, of course, you will need the correct tools to help you along the way. However, the upside to this is that it will save you money in the long run, and even build a stronger bond with your Poodle