Types of Dog Haircuts: Teddy Bear, Puppy Cut and More

“Just a haircut” can mean very different things to different groomers. Knowing the names of the common dog haircuts makes it much easier to get the look you want and a coat that suits your dog and the Indian climate.

Here are the most popular styles, who they suit and how much upkeep to expect.

1. Puppy cut

An even, short to medium length all over the body, usually about one to two inches, with a rounded head and tidy legs. It is the easiest style to keep clean, which is why it is the most requested cut in Indian cities.

• Suits: Shih Tzu, Maltese, Poodle, Lhasa Apso, Pomeranian and mixed breeds with a curly or silky coat.
• Upkeep: A trim every 4 to 8 weeks and brushing a few times a week.

2. Teddy bear cut

A scissored cut that leaves the face and head round and fluffy, with a rounded muzzle and the same length on the legs and body. It gives a soft, cuddly look.

• Suits: Poodle, Shih Tzu, Bichon, Cavapoo and similar breeds.
• Upkeep: Frequent brushing and a face trim every 4 to 6 weeks, since the shape needs to stay neat.

3. Summer cut or kennel cut

A short, even clip over the whole body to keep a dog cooler and make coat care easy during hot months.

• Suits: Single coated and curly coated breeds, and mixed breeds with long, easily matted coats.
• Upkeep: Low. Remember that sun exposure rises, so avoid direct midday sun.
• Important: This is not for double coated breeds such as Huskies, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds or Labradors. Shaving a double coat can disrupt how the coat regulates heat and can leave it patchy when it grows back. Read more in our guide to deshedding versus shaving.

4. Lion cut

The body is clipped short, while the head, neck and tail tip keep longer hair, giving a mane. It is most common for long haired cats, and it is also used on some dogs.

• Suits: Dogs and cats with thick or easily tangled coats. For double coated dogs, talk to your groomer first, because a short clip is not always good for them.
• Upkeep: Daily brushing of the mane and regular trims of the body.

5. Lamb cut

Popular for Poodles. The body is clipped fairly short, with the legs left longer and more fluffy, and a rounded head and ears.

• Suits: Poodles and Poodle crosses.
• Upkeep: A groom every 4 to 6 weeks.

6. Breed standard or show cut

The traditional style for a breed, such as the Schnauzer, Cocker Spaniel or Poodle. It follows shape guidelines, with defined lines on the legs, face and tail.

• Suits: Dogs that are shown, or owners who love the classic look.
• Upkeep: High. Regular professional grooming and daily brushing.

7. Natural coat with tidy up

No big cut at all. The groomer cleans around the eyes, ears, paws and sanitary area, and tidies the edges. This is the right approach for most double coated breeds.

• Suits: Golden Retriever, Labrador, Husky, German Shepherd, Indie dogs and most short haired breeds.
• Upkeep: Regular brushing, deshedding and baths.

How to choose

1. Start with the coat type. Double coated dogs generally should not be shaved.
2. Think about the season. Short styles are comfortable in summer, longer styles keep warmth in the cooler months.
3. Be honest about your routine. A teddy bear cut looks good for a short time if you do not brush at home. A puppy cut is more forgiving.
4. Bring a photo. Pictures remove confusion.
5. Ask your groomer. A good groomer will tell you what the coat can and cannot do.

For breed by breed ideas, read our guide on dog haircut styles for popular breeds.

Get the cut your dog suits

Pamper Paws groomers come to your doorstep and can suggest the right style for your dog’s breed, coat and lifestyle. See our packages or send us a photo on WhatsApp.