20 Goldendoodle Haircut Styles (With Groomer Tips to Keep Them Looking Fresh)
- Riverview Grooming
- Jan 28, 2024
- 17 min read
Updated: Sep 8
One of my favorite things as a groomer is helping Goldendoodle owners find the right balance between a fun look and a practical cut. This breed has one of the most versatile coats you’ll ever see. They can pull off everything from a fluffy teddy bear style to a sleek summer trim. The challenge is picking a haircut that not only looks adorable but also works with your dog’s coat type and your grooming routine at home.
Some doodles can handle longer, fluffier styles if their owners are committed to regular brushing. Others do better with a neat, shorter cut that’s easier to maintain between visits. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, and that is what makes grooming Goldendoodles so enjoyable. Every cut is a chance to highlight their personality while making sure they stay comfortable and healthy.
In this guide, we’re sharing 20 Goldendoodle haircut ideas along with pro tips from the grooming table. These are styles we’ve recommended time and again to help doodles look their best while keeping things realistic for busy families.
Understanding the Goldendoodle Coat
One of the first things we explain to new Goldendoodle clients is that not all doodle coats are the same. Some pups inherit tight, curly poodle coats while others take after the golden retriever side with looser waves. Many fall somewhere in between, with a fluffy fleece-like texture. Each type has its own charm, but also its own grooming challenges.
Curly coats are dense and can look gorgeous when kept brushed out. They’re also the most prone to matting if skipped between grooms. Regular brushing and conditioning sprays are a must.
Wavy coats tend to be the easiest to manage. They give that classic doodle look without quite as much risk of knots, though they still need consistent care.
Straight coats are less common but show up in some Goldendoodles. They shed more like a retriever and don’t hold sculpted styles as well, but they’re lower maintenance overall.
Knowing which coat your doodle has helps you choose a haircut that not only looks good but also fits your lifestyle. A family that enjoys daily brushing may love the fluff of a teddy bear cut. For a busy household, a shorter style like a puppy or summer cut might be the better choice.
When we recommend a haircut, we always think about the coat first. It sets the stage for what’s possible, how much upkeep it will take, and how long the cut will last before your doodle needs another visit.
Want to make brushing your doodle easier? Take a look at our top 5 best brushes for Goldendoodles and learn which tools keep their coats mat-free here.
Essential Grooming Tools for Goldendoodles
No matter which haircut you choose, keeping your Goldendoodle looking their best starts at home with the right tools. A doodle’s coat can tangle quickly, and even the most practical haircut needs regular brushing between salon visits. With the right brushes and combs, you can keep mats under control and make every grooming appointment easier for both you and your pup.
This is the tool we reach for every single day in the salon. The fine, bent pins glide through curls and waves, lifting out loose hair while keeping the coat fluffy. A few minutes with a slicker brush can make a huge difference in preventing mats.
After brushing, a sturdy comb helps you find the spots the brush may have missed. It’s perfect for sensitive areas like behind the ears, under the chin, and around the legs where mats like to hide. Think of it as your double-check tool.
Even with good brushing, Goldendoodles can develop knots in tricky areas. A de-matting tool has safe, curved blades that slice through mats without pulling. It’s a lifesaver for keeping your dog comfortable and avoiding a shave-down.
A light mist of detangling spray before brushing makes the coat softer and easier to manage. It cuts down on static, helps prevent breakage, and keeps the curls looking healthy and shiny.
Having these tools on hand means you can spend more time enjoying your doodle and less time worrying about their coat. A quick daily check-in with the brush and comb is often all it takes to keep tangles from turning into full mats.
1. Goldendoodle Teddy Bear Cut
The Teddy Bear Cut is hands-down the most requested style for Goldendoodles, and it’s easy to see why. This haircut keeps the coat soft and rounded, giving your doodle the look of a cuddly stuffed animal. The body is usually trimmed to a medium length, while the face is carefully shaped into a round, plush outline that highlights those big expressive eyes.
Why owners love it:
Adorable, youthful look that makes every doodle extra huggable
Works well with wavy and curly coats
Keeps enough length for a fluffy appearance without being too high-maintenance
Maintenance level: Moderate. You’ll need to brush your doodle several times a week to prevent tangles, especially around the ears, chest, and legs. A Slicker Brush is perfect for keeping the fluff neat and mat-free.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for the coat to be left about 1–2 inches long all over with a rounded face and ears. Be clear if you prefer a shorter or fuller teddy bear look. Bringing a photo always helps, since “teddy bear” can mean slightly different things from one groomer to another.
Curious about the Goldendoodle Teddy Bear Cut? Check out our groomer’s take on whether it’s the perfect style or just a passing trend here.
2. Goldendoodle All Over Cut (Sometimes Called a Puppy Cut)
The All Over Cut is a classic choice for Goldendoodles and one of the easiest styles to understand. The coat is trimmed to the same length all over the body, usually between ¼ inch and 2 inches depending on how fluffy you want your doodle to look. Many owners call this a Puppy Cut, even though it’s really just a neat, uniform trim that works for dogs of all ages.
Why owners love it:
Clean, balanced look without extra frills
Great for active doodles who spend time outdoors
Works for all coat types and ages
Maintenance level: Low to moderate. The longer you go, the more brushing you’ll need at home. A ¼-inch trim can almost feel like a wash-and-wear style, while a 2-inch cut still requires regular brushing with a slicker brush to prevent mats.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for an even length all over, specifying exactly how much coat you’d like left. For example, “¼ inch all over” gives a short, practical finish, while “2 inches all over” keeps a fluffy, plush look. Be sure to mention whether you’d like the face and ears trimmed shorter or rounded to match the body.
Looking for ways to keep your doodle entertained? Explore our list of the best toys for Goldendoodles that keep playtime fun and engaging here.
3. Goldendoodle Lamb Cut
The Lamb Cut is a playful style that keeps the body short while leaving the legs fuller and rounded. This contrast gives your Goldendoodle the look of a little lamb, with fluffy legs that stand out against a neat, trimmed body. It’s a fun choice for families who want something a little different without making grooming too high-maintenance.
Why owners love it:
Adorable, stylish look that makes your doodle stand out
Short body helps keep the coat manageable
Fluffy legs add personality without going over the top
Maintenance level: Moderate. The short body is easy to care for, but the fuller legs need regular brushing to stay fluffy and mat-free. A good metal comb helps check for tangles in those longer areas, especially around the joints.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for the body to be trimmed shorter, usually around ½ inch, while leaving the legs longer and shaped into rounded columns. Let your groomer know if you prefer a subtle version with just a little extra fluff or a more dramatic lamb look with fuller legs.
4. Goldendoodle Summer Cut
The Summer Cut is all about keeping your Goldendoodle cool, comfortable, and easy to maintain when the weather heats up. This style trims the coat shorter across the body while keeping the head and face slightly longer for a soft, rounded look. It’s a great option for active doodles who spend a lot of time outdoors or families who prefer a wash-and-wear coat through the hottest months.
Why owners love it:
Keeps dogs cooler and more comfortable in warm weather
Low-maintenance style that’s easy to brush and bathe
Still keeps a soft doodle face while reducing overall coat bulk
Maintenance level: Low. With a shorter coat, brushing once or twice a week with a slicker brush is usually enough. Ears and tails may still need extra attention since those areas can mat faster than the body.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for the body to be clipped shorter, usually with a blade length that leaves about ¼ to ½ inch of coat. Request the head and face be shaped with a slightly longer, rounded finish so your doodle keeps that sweet, approachable look.
Goldendoodle Long Ears Cut
The Long Ears Cut adds a touch of elegance to your Goldendoodle’s look by keeping the ears longer and fuller while the body is trimmed shorter for easy upkeep. It’s a style that frames the face beautifully and makes those doodle expressions even more endearing.
Why owners love it:
Keeps the body neat while letting the ears shine
Adds softness and character to the face
Great for doodles with naturally wavy or curly ear hair
Maintenance level: Moderate. The short body is easy to brush, but the ears need regular attention to prevent mats. Use a metal comb to gently work through the longer ear hair, especially near the base where tangles often form.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for the body to be trimmed to your preferred length, usually ½ to 1 inch, while leaving the ear hair longer and rounded at the tips. Be clear about how long you’d like the ears kept — some owners prefer them very full, while others want just a little extra length for balance.
6. Goldendoodle Short Ears Cut
The Short Ears Cut is the opposite of the long-eared style. Instead of leaving the ear hair long, it’s trimmed shorter and shaped neatly to keep things clean and practical. This look can really brighten up your Goldendoodle’s face, giving them a tidy, puppy-like expression. It’s also a favorite for active doodles who love the outdoors, since shorter ear hair is less likely to tangle or trap debris.
Why owners love it:
Gives a youthful, playful look
Easier to keep clean around the ears
Reduces risk of matting and ear odor from trapped hair
Maintenance level: Low. Shorter ears are simple to manage, but you’ll still want to brush them every few days to prevent buildup of dirt or loose hair. A slicker brush works well for the ears when kept short.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for the body to be trimmed to your chosen length, and the ears cut shorter to match the face. Let your groomer know if you’d like the tips rounded for a soft finish or kept a little closer for a sportier look.
7. Goldendoodle Puppy’s First Haircut
A Goldendoodle’s very first haircut is less about style and more about starting good grooming habits. For puppies under six months old, we keep things simple with a light trim that tidies the face, feet, and sanitary areas. This lets the puppy stay fluffy and adorable while getting used to the sights, sounds, and feel of the grooming process. A gentle first cut helps set the stage for a lifetime of stress-free salon visits.
Why owners love it:
Keeps the puppy looking soft and cuddly
Introduces grooming in a positive, non-intimidating way
Prevents early mats in sensitive areas
Maintenance level: Low. A quick brush with a slicker brush every few days helps keep the coat free of tangles until the puppy is ready for a fuller cut. The main goal at this age is building a routine.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for a light trim that cleans up the eyes, paws, and sanitary area without taking off too much length. Make it clear you want your puppy to stay fluffy while still starting the grooming journey.
8. Goldendoodle Asian Fusion (Donut Muzzle) Cut
The Asian Fusion style, often called the Donut Muzzle Cut, gives your Goldendoodle a playful, doll-like look. The coat on the face is shaped into a round “donut” around the muzzle, while the body is kept shorter and tidy. This style emphasizes big, round eyes and a soft, toy-like expression. It’s especially fun on doodles with curlier coats that hold shape well.
Why owners love it:
Unique, trendy look that makes doodles stand out
Brings extra attention to the face and eyes
Can be customized with longer legs or fuller ears for added flair
Maintenance level: High. This cut needs frequent brushing and regular trims to keep the face round and even. A metal comb is key for keeping the muzzle area free of tangles and food debris.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for a rounded, “donut-style” face with the body trimmed shorter, usually ½ to 1 inch. Be clear if you want fuller legs or ears to match the Asian Fusion style, or if you prefer to keep the focus mainly on the face.
9. Goldendoodle Mohawk Cut
The Mohawk Cut is a bold and playful style for Goldendoodles who love to turn heads. The body is trimmed shorter for easy upkeep, while a strip of longer hair is left running down the top of the head and sometimes all the way along the back. Depending on how adventurous you want to be, the mohawk can be kept neat and subtle or styled tall and spiky for extra flair.
Why owners love it:
Fun, eye-catching look with lots of personality
Works well for doodles with a lively, playful temperament
Can be dressed up with a little styling gel for special occasions
Maintenance level: Moderate. The short body is easy to manage, but the mohawk strip needs regular brushing to stay neat. A slicker brush works best to keep the strip fluffy and free of tangles.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for the body to be trimmed short, usually ½ inch or less, while leaving a strip of hair longer down the center of the head and neck. Let your groomer know if you want the mohawk to stop at the head or extend down the back for a bolder look.
10. Goldendoodle Business/Party Cut (Mullet Style)
The Business/Party Cut, often called the mullet style, is for doodle owners who love a little humor mixed with practicality. The coat is trimmed shorter in the front half of the body for a tidy, easy-care look — that’s the “business” part. The back half and tail are left longer, giving your Goldendoodle that fun, flowing “party in the back” vibe. It’s playful, unique, and definitely a conversation starter at the dog park.
Why owners love it:
Lighthearted and fun without being too extreme
Keeps the front neat while adding personality in the back
Perfect for families who don’t mind their doodle standing out
Maintenance level: Moderate. The shorter front is easy to maintain, but the longer back coat and tail need consistent brushing. A de-matting tool is helpful for the tail and rear where mats tend to form.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for the front of the body and head to be clipped shorter while keeping the rear and tail longer. Let your groomer know how dramatic you want the contrast — some owners go subtle, others prefer a full mullet look.
11. Goldendoodle Tied-up Topknot Cut
The Topknot Cut adds a stylish flair to your Goldendoodle by leaving extra length on top of the head. The body and face are trimmed neatly, while the hair on top is shaped into a rounded puff or gathered into a playful ponytail. This look gives doodles a fun, polished appearance and works especially well for owners who enjoy accessorizing with bows or bands.
Why owners love it:
Adds character without being overly complicated
Keeps the face tidy while leaving room for creativity
Perfect for photos, holidays, or everyday style with a little flair
Maintenance level: Moderate. The body is easy to maintain, but the topknot needs brushing and light shaping to keep it neat. A metal comb works well for smoothing out tangles in the longer top hair.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for the body and face to be trimmed to your preferred length while leaving the top of the head longer. Specify if you want it shaped into a rounded puff or left long enough to tie into a ponytail.
12. Goldendoodle Color Style (Creative Grooming)
The Color Style is all about creativity and fun. Instead of changing the length or shape of the coat, safe, non-toxic pet dyes are used to add pops of color. Some owners choose subtle pastel highlights in the ears or tail, while others go bold with bright patterns or seasonal designs. This style isn’t for every doodle, but for the right family, it can be a playful way to show off personality.
Why owners love it:
Lets their doodle stand out in a crowd
Can be customized for holidays, birthdays, or special events
Works with any haircut length or style
Maintenance level: Variable. Brushing needs stay the same as the cut underneath, but the color may require touch-ups or special shampoos to keep it looking fresh. Using a gentle conditioning spray helps maintain coat health after coloring.
What to tell your groomer: Ask if your groomer offers creative grooming with pet-safe dyes. Be clear about the colors or designs you’d like, and always confirm that only dog-safe products will be used. If you prefer something subtle, request accents just on the ears, tail, or topknot.
13. Goldendoodle Lion Cut
The Lion Cut gives your Goldendoodle a bold, regal look. The body is clipped shorter, while the hair around the neck, chest, and head is left longer to create a mane effect. The tail is often finished with a rounded puff at the end, adding to the lion-like appearance. It’s a playful cut that makes a big statement but still keeps most of the coat easy to manage.
Why owners love it:
Unique, eye-catching style that always gets attention
Shorter body keeps grooming simple
The mane shows off a doodle’s natural curls and volume
Maintenance level: Moderate. The short body is easy, but the mane requires regular brushing to stay full and tangle-free. A slicker brush is best for keeping the longer chest and neck hair fluffy without mats.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for the body and legs to be trimmed short, leaving the hair around the head, neck, and chest longer for a mane effect. If you want the classic lion look, request a puff at the tip of the tail.
14. Goldendoodle Poodle Cut
The Poodle Cut gives your Goldendoodle a polished, elegant look by borrowing classic elements from traditional poodle grooming. The body is clipped shorter for a sleek finish, while areas like the head, ears, and sometimes the legs are left fuller and shaped. This style emphasizes structure and can really highlight a doodle’s athletic build.
Why owners love it:
A refined, stylish look inspired by show poodles
Easy to adapt with longer or shorter variations
Keeps the body practical while adding flair around the head and legs
Maintenance level: Moderate to high. The short body is simple to care for, but the longer areas need frequent brushing to hold their shape. A metal comb helps maintain the rounded look on the head and ears between grooms.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for the body to be clipped close, with the head, ears, and sometimes the legs scissored longer for a poodle-inspired finish. Let your groomer know if you prefer a more subtle version or a dramatic show-style cut.
15. Kennel Cut
The Kennel Cut is one of the most practical choices for Goldendoodles. The coat is clipped short all over, usually between ¼ and ½ inch, which makes it easy to manage at home. It’s a favorite for families with active dogs who love swimming, hiking, or playing outdoors since the short coat is simple to keep clean and comfortable.
Why owners love it:
Very low-maintenance style
Keeps doodles cool and tidy
Great for active lifestyles and warm climates
Maintenance level: Very low. With such a short coat, brushing is minimal, though a quick once-over with a slicker brush once a week helps remove dirt and loose hair.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for the coat to be clipped short all over, typically ¼ to ½ inch in length, with a neat, uniform finish. Let your groomer know if you want the face and ears kept slightly longer for softness or taken down to match the body.
16. Bichon Style Cut
The Bichon Style Cut gives your Goldendoodle that signature “cloud” look with a perfectly rounded head and a soft, fluffy body. The coat is usually scissored longer, about 1 to 2 inches, with careful shaping to create balance between the head, body, and legs. This cut takes inspiration from the classic Bichon Frise style and turns your doodle into a walking puffball of charm.
Why owners love it:
Adorable, rounded look that shows off doodle curls
Eye-catching and playful, perfect for photos
Keeps a longer, fluffy coat without looking messy
Maintenance level: High. This style requires frequent brushing and regular trims to keep its round shape. A slicker brush and conditioning spray are essential to keep the coat smooth and tangle-free.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for the coat to be scissored to about 1–2 inches with a rounded head and legs, in the style of a Bichon Frise. Let your groomer know if you prefer a slightly shorter version for easier upkeep or the full fluffy finish for maximum cuteness.
17. Modified Show Cut
The Modified Show Cut is a polished style that keeps more length on the coat for a fuller, elegant look, while trimming key areas to make it manageable for everyday life. Instead of leaving the entire coat long like a show poodle, this version balances beauty with practicality by shaping the body, legs, and head into a clean outline without overcomplicating the maintenance.
Why owners love it:
Gives a refined, show-like appearance without the extreme upkeep
Highlights a doodle’s natural build and coat texture
Perfect for families who want a little extra style while still keeping things realistic
Maintenance level: High. This cut requires regular brushing every few days and grooming appointments every 4–6 weeks to maintain its shape. A metal comb is helpful for working through tangles in the longer areas.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for a longer scissor finish, usually 1–2 inches, with the body and legs shaped evenly and the head rounded. Mention that you’d like a balanced, show-inspired look without going into a full competition-style groom.
18. Shaved Face Cut
The Shaved Face Cut takes the coat down close around the muzzle, eyes, and jawline while leaving the body at your preferred length. This style is practical for doodles who tend to get food or tear staining around the mouth, or for families who want to keep the face neat and clean between grooms. It creates a sharper, tidier look compared to the round teddy bear face.
Why owners love it:
Keeps the mouth area clean and easier to manage
Reduces food, water, and tear stains in long facial hair
Practical option for doodles with sensitive skin around the muzzle
Maintenance level: Low to moderate. The short facial hair needs almost no upkeep, but the rest of the body coat should still be brushed regularly. A slicker brush works best for keeping the body coat smooth.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for the muzzle and face to be clipped short with clean lines, while keeping the body coat trimmed to your chosen length. Be specific if you’d like the shaved face paired with a certain body style, such as an All Over or Summer Cut.
19. Bearded Cut
The Bearded Cut gives your Goldendoodle a distinguished, almost old-soul look. The head and ears are trimmed into a rounded shape, while the muzzle is left longer to form a full, flowing beard. This style really shows off a doodle’s expressive face and gives them a unique charm that stands out from the typical teddy bear trim.
Why owners love it:
Creates a one-of-a-kind look with lots of character
Highlights the doodle’s facial structure and expressions
Perfect for families who want something different from the classic rounded muzzle
Maintenance level: Moderate to high. The longer beard needs daily brushing to stay neat and free of food or water debris. A metal comb is especially useful for keeping the beard smooth and tangle-free.
What to tell your groomer: Ask for the head and ears to be trimmed into a rounded finish, while leaving the muzzle longer to form a beard. Be specific about how long you want the beard kept, since it can be shaped shorter for practicality or left flowing for extra flair.
20. Matted Shave-Down
The Matted Shave-Down isn’t chosen for style, but sometimes it’s the kindest and safest option for your Goldendoodle. When mats are too tight or cover too much of the coat, brushing them out would be painful. In these cases, we recommend shaving the coat short to give your doodle a fresh, comfortable start. The good news is their coat will grow back quickly, and with regular brushing, you can avoid matting in the future.
Why owners love it:
Restores comfort for a dog struggling with mats
Prevents skin irritation and hotspots under tangled hair
Gives a clean slate for healthier coat growth
Maintenance level: Very low at first. Once the coat begins to grow back, it’s important to start a brushing routine. A de-matting tool and conditioning spray help prevent future tangles as the hair gets longer.
What to tell your groomer: If your doodle has developed severe mats, ask about a shave-down. Be open to your groomer’s recommendations for coat length and follow their advice for home care moving forward. This style is all about comfort and giving your dog a healthy reset.
Join Our Goldendoodle Haircut Poll
We love hearing from doodle parents about which styles are their favorites. That’s why we’ve put together a fun poll where you can vote for the Goldendoodle cut you love most. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Teddy Bear Cut, something bold like the Mohawk, or prefer a natural, fluffy look, your opinion helps us see what doodle families are drawn to the most.
So far, the Teddy Bear Cut is leading the way, but the Lion Cut, Poodle Cut, and even playful styles like the Mullet are getting some love too. Every vote counts, and it’s a great way to see what other owners in our doodle community are choosing for their pups.
Hey Goldendoodle lovers! We're curious about which haircut style you think looks paw-some on these fluffy friends. Please cast your vote, and let's find out.
Teddy Bear Cut
Lion Cut
Poodle Cut
Lamb Cut
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