14 Must-Try Poodle Haircuts: Trendy, Practical, and Fabulous Looks

This past year at our salon, we’ve seen Poodles rocking everything from the cuddly Teddy Bear Cut to the elegant Lamb Cut. Some styles became instant favorites in 2025, and it’s easy to see why. They keep dogs comfortable, stylish, and full of personality.

As we look ahead to 2026, many of these same cuts will stay in the spotlight, with a few fresh twists to keep things exciting. The beauty of Poodle grooming is that their hair gives us endless possibilities, whether you want something simple for everyday life or a head-turning look for special occasions.

In this guide, we’re highlighting the Poodle haircuts that stole the show in 2025 and the ones we know will continue to turn heads in 2026. These are the styles that balance practicality with a little flair, keeping your pup looking sharp and feeling their best all year long.

Understanding Poodle Coats and Basic Care

Poodles are known for their gorgeous curly coats, but that beauty comes with a unique set of care needs. Unlike most breeds that shed fur, Poodles grow hair that keeps coming in until it’s trimmed. That’s part of what makes them hypoallergenic, but it also means their coat can easily mat or tangle without regular attention.

A well-maintained coat doesn’t just look good—it keeps your dog comfortable, prevents skin problems, and makes every haircut last longer. Over the years at our salon, we’ve found that pet parents who understand their Poodle’s coat type have a much easier time keeping up with grooming between appointments.

Here are a few key things to know about the Poodle coat:

• It’s hair, not fur. Poodles have continuously growing hair that behaves more like human hair than typical dog fur.

• Prone to matting. Those tight curls can lock together quickly, especially around high-friction areas like the ears, armpits, and collar line.

• Variety in curl type. Some Poodles have looser waves, while others have very tight curls, which can change how often they need brushing.

• Seasonal comfort. The coat provides insulation, but it can also trap heat. Choosing the right haircut helps your Poodle stay comfortable year-round.

• Allergy-friendly. Their coat sheds very little, making them a popular choice for families with allergies, but that also means regular trims are essential.

The takeaway is simple: a Poodle’s coat can be their best feature or their biggest challenge. With the right brushing routine and consistent grooming, that signature curl will always look stylish, stay healthy, and be easier for your groomer to shape into a beautiful cut.

The Best Grooming Tools for Your Poodle

The right tools make all the difference when it comes to keeping a Poodle coat healthy and stylish. At our salon, we rely on a few essentials every single day, and we recommend them to pet parents who want to keep grooming stress-free at home. Using the right brush or comb not only saves time but also helps prevent painful mats and makes your Poodle’s haircut last longer.

Here are the tools we consider must-haves for every Poodle household:

• Slicker Brush – An everyday essential. The fine pins glide through curls, remove loose hair, and help fluff the coat.

• Stainless Steel Comb – Often called a greyhound comb, this is perfect for finding tangles the slicker brush might miss and for giving a polished finish.

• De-matting Comb – Designed with safe blades to gently work out stubborn knots in sensitive areas like behind the ears or under the legs.

• Pin Brush – Great for fluff-drying and adding volume, especially before scissoring.

• Pet Dryer – Thorough drying keeps mats from forming and gives that fluffy, soft finish Poodles are known for.

A few tips we’ve learned over the years:

• Always brush down to the skin, not just the surface, to catch hidden tangles.

• Work in small sections, starting from the feet and legs, then move up the body.

• Use a light detangling spray like Leave-in Conditioner and Detangler to make brushing smoother and more comfortable.

With these tools and a consistent brushing routine, you’ll find your Poodle’s coat easier to manage between grooming visits. A little at-home maintenance goes a long way toward keeping your dog comfortable and picture-ready for their next haircut.

Our Must-Try Poodle Haircuts

When it comes to poodle grooming, the right haircut can make all the difference in your pup’s appearance and comfort. Whether you’re looking for a stylish new look or a practical trim for the warmer months, we’ve curated a selection of the top 10 poodle haircuts that are trendy and functional. Each style has its unique charm and is tailored to different needs, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your poodle.

Lamb Cut

Teddy Bear Cut

Miami Cut

Puppy Cut

Summer Cut

Tied-up Top Knot Cut

Mohawk Cut

Kennel Cut

Asian Fusion Cut

Bichon-Inspired Cut

Adding a Pop of Color to Your Poodle’s Style

Poodle Mullet Cut

Poodle Donut Mustache Cut

Poodle Bearded Cut

Lamb Cut Poodle Haircut

The Lamb Cut is a timeless choice that effortlessly combines style with practicality. This haircut leaves your poodle’s body hair at a medium length while the legs are sculpted with a slightly fuller look, creating a balanced and elegant silhouette. The distinctiveness of the Lamb Cut lies in the way it accentuates the poodle’s natural build, giving a sleek appearance without sacrificing that signature fluffy charm.

Maintenance Level: Moderate. While the Lamb Cut is relatively easy to maintain, it does require regular brushing to prevent matting, especially around the legs where the hair is left longer. A professional trim every 4 to 6 weeks will keep the look sharp and fresh.

Notes for Your Groomer:

• For the body, ask your groomer to use a # 3 blade (½ inches) for a clean yet soft finish that retains the poodle's natural shape.

• Request that the legs be trimmed using a 1.25-inch comb attachment. This will give them a fuller appearance and a nice contrast to the shorter body.

Groomer’s Tip: 

Best For: The Lamb Cut is ideal for poodles who love a polished, well-groomed appearance but enjoy active playtime. Its balance between length and fullness makes it versatile for everyday wear and special occasions.

Teddy Bear Poodle Haircut

The Teddy Bear Cut is a favorite among poodle owners who love a soft, cuddly appearance. This cut keeps the hair uniformly short across the body, typically leaving it around ½ inch long. At the same time, the face is rounded and fluffy, giving your poodle that irresistible teddy bear look. The roundness of the face and the even length of the coat highlight the poodle’s natural charm, making this style both adorable and practical.

Maintenance Level: Low to Moderate. The Teddy Bear Cut is relatively easy to maintain. Regular brushing is required to avoid tangles, especially around the face and ears, where the hair is left slightly longer. A trim every 4 to 6 weeks will keep the look even and neat.

Groomer’s Tip: 

Best For: The Teddy Bear Cut is perfect for poodles of all sizes who enjoy a cute, playful look that’s easy to care for. It’s especially great for families with kids, as the cut enhances the poodle’s approachable and friendly demeanor.

Notes for Your Groomer:

• Ask your groomer to use a # E Comb (1 inch) across the body for a uniform, plush finish that’s easy to maintain.

• For the face, request a rounded, fluffy shape that leaves the hair slightly longer—around 1.5 inch comb —to achieve the classic teddy bear look.

• Ensure the ears are trimmed to match the rounded shape of the face, creating a cohesive and balanced appearance.

Miami Cut Poodle Haircut

The Miami Cut, also known as the Bikini Cut, is a stylish and fun choice that combines practicality with a touch of flair. This cut features closely clipped hair on the body and legs, with puffs of longer hair left on the ankles, tail, and topknot. The Miami Cut highlights the poodle’s elegant structure while adding a playful twist with its distinct pom-poms.

Maintenance Level: Moderate. The Miami Cut requires regular maintenance to keep the short areas smooth and the puffs neatly trimmed. Brushing the puffs daily will help prevent matting and keep them fluffy. A professional groom every 4 to 6 weeks is ideal to maintain this cut's clean lines and shape.

Groomer’s Tip: 

Best For: The Miami Cut is perfect for poodles who enjoy a stylish, eye-catching look. It’s especially well-suited for warmer climates, as the shorter body hair helps keep your poodle cool, while the puffs add a unique, fashionable touch.

Notes for Your Groomer:

• Ask your groomer to use a # 7 blade (1/8 inch) on the body and legs for a close, smooth finish that contrasts beautifully with the puffs.

• Request the puffs on the ankles, tail, and topknot to be left longer, around 2 to 2.5 inches, for that classic Miami look.

• Make sure the puffs are rounded and symmetrical, giving your poodle a polished, balanced appearance.

Puppy Cut Poodle Haircut

The Puppy Cut is a versatile and universally loved style that keeps your poodle looking youthful and adorable. This cut involves trimming the hair to a uniform length all over the body, typically around ½ inch to 1 inch, giving your poodle a soft, fluffy appearance reminiscent of a puppy’s coat. The simplicity of this cut makes it a practical choice for poodle owners who want a cute look without the high maintenance of more elaborate styles.

Maintenance Level: Low. The Puppy Cut is one of the easiest poodle hairstyles to maintain, requiring only regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting. A trim every 6 to 8 weeks will help keep the coat even and tidy.

Groomer’s Tip:

Best For: The Puppy Cut is perfect for poodles of all ages, especially those who prefer a low-maintenance style that still looks cute and well-groomed. It’s an excellent option for active poodles who need a fuss-free yet stylish haircut.

Notes for Your Groomer:

• Ask your groomer to trim the coat uniformly to your preferred length—typically between ½ inch and 1 inch—using a blade or comb attachment that matches this length.

• A slightly longer comb attachment is recommended for the head to allow for some gentle shaping and a rounded, puppy-like appearance.

• If you prefer a slightly rounder face, request a gentle rounding around the muzzle to enhance that classic puppy-like look.

Summer Cut Poodle Haircut

The Summer Cut is perfect for warmer months, keeping your poodle cool and comfortable while still looking stylish. This cut features a close trim on the body to minimize heat retention, with cleanly trimmed feet and face for a neat, tidy appearance. The ears are kept short, and the topknot is trimmed down, making this practical and chic cut. A small optional puff on the tail adds just the right amount of flair without compromising comfort.

Maintenance Level: Low to Moderate. The Summer Cut is easy to maintain, requiring minimal brushing due to the shorter coat. Regular trims every 6 to 8 weeks will keep the cut looking sharp and your poodle feeling cool.

Groomer’s Tip:

Best For: The Summer Cut is ideal for poodles living in warm climates or those who are particularly active during the summer. It reduces the risk of overheating while still maintaining a polished appearance.

Notes for Your Groomer:

• Ask your groomer to use a # 7 blade (1/8 inch) on the body for a close, smooth finish that helps keep your poodle cool.

• Request cleanly trimmed feet and face for a tidy, easy-to-maintain look.

• Keep the ears short and the topknot trimmed down for a neat, streamlined appearance.

• If desired, include a small puff on the tail for a touch of style without adding extra bulk.

Tied-Up Top Knot Poodle Haircut

The Tied Up Topknot is a stylish and practical choice for poodle owners who want to keep their dog's hair neat while showcasing a bit of flair. This cut features a slightly longer topknot that can be tied up for a chic, playful look, while the rest of the body is kept at a manageable length. The clean, streamlined appearance of the body contrasts beautifully with the more voluminous topknot, making this a popular choice for everyday wear and special occasions.

Maintenance Level: Moderate. The Tied-up Topknot requires regular maintenance to keep it neat and free of tangles. The body is easy to maintain with its shorter length, but the topknot may need occasional touch-ups to keep it looking its best.

Groomer’s Tip:

Best For: The Tied-up Topknot is perfect for poodles who enjoy a bit of extra style without the need for high-maintenance grooming. It's especially great for those who love to show off their poodle's personality with a distinctive yet practical haircut.

Notes for Your Groomer:

• Ask your groomer to trim the body to a length of 1 to 1.5 inches using a comb attachment, ensuring a soft, even finish that’s easy to maintain.

• Request that the top knot be left longer, allowing it to be tied up for a stylish and playful look. The topknot should be neatly shaped and blended into the rest of the coat.

• For a balanced appearance, keep the rest of the coat slightly shorter, including clean feet and face, while maintaining a uniform length on the body.

Mohawk Poodle Haircut

The Mohawk Poodle Haircut is for those who want their poodle to stand out with a bold, edgy look. This style features a distinctive strip of longer hair running from the top of the head down the back, creating a mohawk effect that contrasts sharply with the shorter hair on the rest of the body. It's a fun and unique way to showcase your poodle's personality, turning heads wherever you go.

Maintenance Level: Moderate. The Mohawk requires attention to keep the longer strip neat and defined. Regular trims every 4 to 6 weeks will help maintain the sharp contrast between the mohawk and the rest of the coat.

Groomer’s Tip: 

Best For: The Mohawk is perfect for poodles who enjoy being the center of attention. It's a great choice for poodle owners who want a haircut as unique as their dog's personality, making it ideal for special events or just making a statement on your daily walks.

Notes for Your Groomer:

• Ask your groomer to use a # 3 blade (½ inches) on the body for a clean, smooth finish that will allow the mohawk to stand out.

• Request the mohawk strip be left longer, typically around 1 to 2 inches, depending on your preference. Ensure it runs from the top of the head down the spine for a continuous, striking look.

• The sides of the body should be trimmed shorter with a clear contrast to the mohawk, while the face and feet are kept clean for a sharp, polished appearance.

Kennel Cut Poodle Haircut

The Kennel Cut is a highly practical and low-maintenance style, perfect for poodles who lead an active lifestyle or for owners looking for an easy-care option. This cut involves trimming the coat close to the body while keeping the face and feet cleanly shaved. The result is a neat, streamlined, functional, stylish appearance, ideal for poodles who enjoy outdoor activities or need a fuss-free grooming routine.

Maintenance Level: Low. The Kennel Cut is one of the most manageable poodle haircuts, requiring minimal brushing and grooming. Regular trims every 6 to 8 weeks will keep the cut looking sharp and your poodle comfortable.

Groomer’s Tip: 

Best For: The Kennel Cut is ideal for poodles who spend much time outdoors, enjoy swimming, or need a low-maintenance grooming option. It’s an excellent choice for warmer climates or poodles who prefer a simple, no-frills style.

Notes for Your Groomer:

• Ask your groomer to use a # 5 blade (¼ inch) on the body for a close, uniform cut that’s easy to manage and keeps your poodle cool.

• Request a clean-shaven face and feet for a tidy, polished appearance that contrasts nicely with the short body.

• Depending on your preference, the ears can be trimmed short or left slightly longer, but they should match the overall streamlined look of the cut.

Asian Fusion Poodle Haircut

The Asian Fusion Poodle Haircut is a creative and trendy style inspired by Japanese grooming techniques. This cut emphasizes exaggerated features, such as a rounded face, fluffy legs, and a sleek body, creating a playful, doll-like appearance. It’s a versatile and artistic haircut that allows for much customization, making your poodle look unique and fashion-forward.

Maintenance Level: High. The Asian Fusion style requires frequent grooming to maintain the distinct shapes and features. Regular brushing is essential to keep the coat looking smooth and fluffy, and professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks will help preserve the style’s intricate details.

Groomer’s Tip: 

Best For: The Asian Fusion style is perfect for poodles who love to stand out and owners who enjoy a more whimsical, creative look. This cut is ideal for showcasing your poodle’s personality, making it a popular choice for special occasions or photoshoots.

Notes for Your Groomer:

• Ask your groomer to keep the body short, using a # 5 blade (¼ inch) for a sleek, clean finish contrasting the more exaggerated features.

• For the face, request a rounded, full shape that gives your poodle a doll-like appearance. The legs should be left fluffy, with a length of around 1.5 to 2 inches, to create a playful, exaggerated look.

• The ears can be styled either long and flowing or trimmed short and rounded to match the aesthetic. Discuss the desired look with your groomer to ensure a cohesive style.

Bichon-Inspired Poodle Haircut

The Bichon-Inspired Poodle Haircut is a charming style that takes cues from the classic Bichon Frise look. It emphasizes a soft, fluffy appearance with a rounded face and a uniform, plush coat. This cut creates a cute, teddy bear-like, endearing and practical look, making your poodle look cuddly and well-groomed.

Maintenance Level: Moderate. The Bichon-inspired cut requires regular brushing to maintain the fluffy, even texture and prevent matting. Professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks will help keep the cut looking fresh and well-shaped.

Groomer’s Tip: 

Best For: This cut is ideal for poodles who love a soft, plush look that’s easy to cuddle. It’s perfect for those who want a cute, well-groomed appearance that doesn’t require too much upkeep yet still stands out with its adorable, teddy bear-like charm.

Notes for Your Groomer:

• Ask your groomer to use an A comb (¾ inch) attachment on the body to achieve a soft, fluffy finish reminiscent of the Bichon Frise style.

• For the face, request a rounded, full shape that complements the plush body, giving your poodle a teddy bear-like appearance.

• The legs should be left slightly longer and fluffy to match the body, maintaining a balanced and plush look.

• Ears can be shaped to blend seamlessly with the rounded face, either left slightly longer or trimmed to match the overall style.

Adding a Pop of Color to Your Poodle’s Style

One of the fun parts of Poodle grooming is how versatile their coat can be. Beyond the classic cuts, many pet parents like to add a little extra personality with safe, temporary color. A splash of pink on the ears, a blue tip on the tail, or even a rainbow mohawk can give your Poodle a playful look that turns heads without affecting coat health.

At our salon, we see color used most often for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or photo shoots. The key is using products designed specifically for dogs—these are pet-safe, non-toxic, and temporary, so the color washes out or fades naturally over time.

Some of the most popular ways to add color include:

• Tinted Ears – A soft pastel or bold shade on the ears creates a fun highlight without overwhelming the look.

• Colorful Tail Puff – A bright pop at the tip of the tail adds personality and pairs well with classic cuts like the Lamb Cut or Miami Cut.

• Playful Accents – Dipping just the feet, a mohawk strip, or even a heart-shaped patch gives your Poodle a unique, trendy vibe.

• Seasonal Themes – Pastels for spring, bright neons for summer, or festive reds and greens around the holidays.

Adding color isn’t just about looks—it’s about having fun with your dog’s personality. Some Poodles love the extra attention they get when sporting a colorful style, and it’s an easy way to make a haircut feel fresh and exciting.

Groomer’s Tip: 

Poodle Mullet Cut

The Mullet Cut is a playful, modern style that’s made its way from human fashion into the grooming world. On a Poodle, it brings a bold, lighthearted twist to their natural curls. The style keeps the hair shorter and neat on the front half of the body, while the back half—including the neck, hindquarters, and tail—is left longer for that signature “business in the front, party in the back” vibe.

Maintenance Level: Moderate. The shorter front is easy to keep tidy, but the longer back section needs regular brushing to stay free of tangles and mats. Plan on a trim every 4 to 6 weeks to keep the contrast sharp and the look intentional.

Best For: Owners who want their Poodle to stand out with a unique style that always gets a smile. It’s a fun option for younger dogs, outgoing personalities, or anyone who loves to try something different.

Groomer’s Tip: Blow-dry the longer back hair straight before scissoring. This creates a smoother, more defined mullet shape and prevents the curls from shrinking unevenly.

Notes for Your Groomer:

• Keep the coat short and even across the chest, shoulders, and front legs—around ½ inch works well.

• Leave the hair on the neck, hindquarters, and tail longer, anywhere from 2 to 3 inches depending on the desired effect.

• Blend the transition carefully at the midsection so the style looks deliberate rather than uneven.

• A rounded, fluffy topknot balances the look and keeps the mullet playful rather than too harsh.

The Mullet Cut is all about personality. It’s not a traditional trim, but it’s guaranteed to get your Poodle noticed and showcase their fun side.

Poodle Donut Mustache Cut

The Donut Mustache Cut is a quirky and charming style that puts all the focus on your Poodle’s face. Instead of the typical clean muzzle shave, the hair around the snout is left long and rounded into a donut-like ring. The rest of the body can be styled in a variety of ways, but the fluffy, circular mustache steals the show every time.

Maintenance Level: Moderate to High. The donut shape requires regular brushing and careful trimming to keep it even and neat. Food and water can stick in the longer hair, so daily wiping and frequent touch-ups are important.

Best For: Poodles with playful personalities and owners who enjoy a bold, whimsical look. This cut is especially popular for photoshoots, special events, or pet parents who want their pup to stand out from the crowd.

Groomer’s Tip:

Notes for Your Groomer:

• Keep the body and topknot trimmed in your preferred style (Teddy Bear Cut, Lamb Cut, or even a Kennel Cut) so the mustache is the main feature.

• Leave the muzzle hair longer and round it evenly around the snout for a soft, donut-like effect.

• Blend the mustache smoothly into the cheeks so the circle looks balanced, not blocky.

• Trim around the nose and lips carefully to avoid discomfort while still maintaining the full, fluffy look.

The Donut Mustache is all about personality. It’s not for everyone, but when done right it gives a Poodle a fun, memorable expression that always brings smiles.

Poodle Bearded Cut

The Bearded Cut is a stylish choice that gives your Poodle a distinguished, eye-catching look. This style features a neatly trimmed, short, rounded head with ears kept tidy, while the muzzle hair is grown out into a long, flowing beard. The contrast creates a bold, expressive face that looks both elegant and playful.

Maintenance Level: Moderate. The short head and ears are easy to manage, but the beard requires daily brushing to prevent food, water, or debris from getting trapped. Expect grooming appointments every 4 to 6 weeks to keep the beard’s length tidy and the head polished.

Best For: Poodles with confident personalities and owners who love a unique, standout look. The beard adds character and makes this cut perfect for photos, family outings, or even seasonal styling (think festive ribbons or subtle color accents).

Groomer’s Tip:

Notes for Your Groomer:

• Keep the head trimmed short and rounded, blending smoothly into the ears for a clean, polished outline.

• Leave the muzzle hair long, shaping it into a full, flowing beard.

• Blend the beard evenly into the cheeks so it looks intentional and balanced.

• The rest of the body can be styled in any cut (Teddy Bear, Lamb, or Kennel), but keeping it simple lets the beard be the highlight.

The Bearded Cut gives your Poodle a look full of character and charm, turning the everyday trim into something memorable.

Choosing the right haircut for your poodle is more than aesthetics; it’s about finding a style that suits your pup’s personality and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for something low-maintenance like the Puppy Cut or Kennel Cut, or you want to make a statement with the bold Mohawk Cut or chic Tied-Up Top Knot, there’s a perfect style for every poodle. Each of these cuts, from the practical Summer Cut to the playful Teddy Bear Cut, brings out the best in your poodle’s appearance while keeping them comfortable and happy.

The right poodle haircut enhances your pet’s natural beauty, keeps them feeling great, and makes grooming a breeze. By working closely with your groomer and considering your poodle’s unique needs, you can ensure that your furry friend always looks and feels their best, no matter the season or occasion. So, whether your poodle is strutting around town or enjoying a day at the park, they will turn heads with their perfectly styled coat.