The poodle is a decorative dog, a companion and friend of children. France is considered its homeland.
And the name comes from the German word “paddeln”, which means splashing in the water.
The dog's weight is from 2.2 to 30 kg (depending on the size variety), height at the withers is 24-50 cm, life expectancy is 14-18 years.
The dog has unsurpassed intelligence, artistry, and inexhaustible energy.
A distinctive feature of the breed is its thick coat, which requires careful grooming, and the absence of shedding.
Groom your poodle at home or at a groomer
If we are talking about an upcoming exhibition, then it is better to contact a professional master.
Note! Before contacting, it is important to make sure that the groomer has experience working with poodles.
Dog fur is thick and complex, and you need to have sufficient skills to handle it. A hygienic haircut can be carried out at home when the owner has the necessary skills and a set of tools. Otherwise, it is better to find someone who can get along with your pet.
Why do they do it?
A lion haircut is performed in order to give the pet an elegant look, hide flaws and highlight the advantages of the physique..
If the owner of a poodle plans to use his pet to participate in various international exhibitions, then a lion haircut is simply a must.
It, like the “English saddle”, “continental” and “English lion”, belongs to the standards, but other types of haircuts are considered a home option.
Is it possible to cut a poodle's hair yourself?
The animal's coat is quite dense. During shedding, the hairs do not fall off, but remain in the pet's undercoat, so tangles and tangles often form. If you do not groom and trim the dog's coat, the dog's appearance will quickly become unkempt, skin pain may appear and infections may develop.
For a successful poodle grooming at home, you need to provide a calm environment, proper conditions and have the right tools.
The appearance of pets before and after the procedure is significantly different
Pretentiousness is not a human whim
Some people do not like the cropped individuals of this breed, because they believe that such an animal looks too pretentious and aristocratic.
But a beautiful poodle haircut is not only a tribute to mannered aesthetics, but also practicality and functionality.
In past centuries, curly-haired dogs were used as hunters to drive down prey.
The hairstyle was a kind of “workwear” for the pet, and not a decorative factor.
They often swam in ponds, and their thick fur was an obstacle to rapid movement through the water.
The legs were cut to improve the swimmer's qualities, but the chest was left full to protect the lungs from the cold.
The fluffy ball at the tip of the tail prevented skin injuries when the dog moved through difficult thickets.
Dog Show Grooming
There are several haircut options for a poodle (unlike some other dog breeds). You can choose any of the options, unless other conditions are included in the commission’s recommendations.
a lion
There are two varieties of this haircut - mapogo and Scandinavian. In the first option, the appearance of the pet after a haircut should resemble the corresponding animal. The hair on the body is shortened and leveled to the same size. On the tail, the hairs are removed to a minimum length, leaving a fluffy tip at the end.
In the second case - the Scandinavian Lion poodle cut - the coat is also shortened. But on the hind and forelimbs (on the thigh and lower leg) it is removed as much as possible, leaving rounded “boots” below. On the chest, the fur is formed into a ball - the more voluminous, the better.
Puppy or "Pappy"
This is one of the most popular poodle hairstyles at the show. The hair on the face is shortened as much as possible. The fur on the body is straightened, the paws are not shaved (only a small oval-shaped seal is allowed). The tail is decorated with a machine.
Continental
Continental is a bright and stylish haircut. The base is round in shape. The fur is decorated in a similar way on the tail, paws and chest. The machine is used to cut only in those places where the resulting balls are separated from each other, as well as on the paws and the base of the tail.
Modern
To cut a poodle in the modern style, the hair is leveled to the same length, leaving a little more length on the head, ears and withers. At the beginning of the tail, the tail is shaved with a machine, creating a pompom.
You can trim your poodle at home if the animal is calm
"English" or "English saddle"
The dog's muzzle is shaved with a machine, as well as the upper part of the limbs and the base of the tail. The paws are left with fluffy pom-poms, removing hair from the joints. The tail is made quite round and fluffy.
Photo and video review
There is a wide variety of poodle hairstyles. But the first independent procedure brings a lot of trouble. But if you follow the rules and constantly practice, you can become the best groomer for your pet.
Non-show poodle grooming
Non-exhibition haircut options are suitable for the daily appearance of pets. They will not be allowed into the exhibition with such hairstyles; they are suitable to suit the taste of the owners.
Kennel
On the one hand, this option is considered quite practical for decorating a poodle’s coat. On the other hand, constant length adjustment will be required. The fur is straightened using a machine, the paws are shaped with scissors - there is no need to completely remove the hairs.
On a note! The muzzle is not shaved, only trimmed short. The tail is left voluminous and quite fluffy, like the hair on the head and ears.
Lamb
Lamb or sheep - this option is in many ways similar to the previous haircut. It is important to leave volume by leveling the coat over the entire body. On the muzzle it is shortened a little, but not shaved.
Dutch
Haircutting is considered one of the most difficult - even a professional groomer is not always able to do it. Haircut takes quite a long time. It is suitable if the dog has fairly hard and thick hair. The master starts with the muzzle and paws, which should remain fluffy, but without pom-poms.
Korean
The Korean or Asian version involves cutting the fur step by step to one length (a bit like a puppy's haircut). A slightly longer cover is left on the face and ears to obtain sufficient volume. More hairs can be left on the bottom of the paws.
In addition to exhibition options, non-exhibition haircut methods are often used.
Sports
The hair from the body, face and paws of the animal is removed as briefly as possible. The master leaves a small round cap on the head; the length is maintained on the tail and ears (can be slightly adjusted and trimmed).
Clown
With a haircut, which professional groomers call a “clown”, the hair is removed to a minimum length. Fluffy bracelets are left on the lower part of the paws, and a pom-pom is left at the end of the tail. The head is decorated with a round cap, the ears are left long.
On a note! This haircut option is suitable for summer. The dog is not hot and comfortable. It’s easy to maintain a beautiful appearance even at home.
Veteran
As the name suggests, a veteran's haircut is often used to cut older pets. The back side is completely shaved; on the front, the coat is shaped like a lion with a voluminous mane.
Bikini
The fur on the entire body is trimmed short, leaving only the bracelets on the lower part of the paws. The tail and head are cut in the usual way. The haircut is quite simple and can be done even at home.
Bichon
In this case, dogs are cut mainly with scissors; clippers are practically not used. Externally, the pet should look like a Bichon Frize breed. On the body, the coat is styled like a puppy haircut, while the head remains rounded.
Dyeing the fur will make your pet's appearance truly vibrant.
teddy bear
This option practically copies the “puppy” hairstyle. The master does not process only the paws. With this haircut, the pet resembles a toy teddy bear.
Hygienic grooming
Caring for a poodle's coat is not just a decorative necessity. The hair of the breed grows quickly, is thick and somewhat fluffy, which is why tangles and tangles often appear.
Hygienic haircut is a mandatory procedure. It is carried out with the help of a professional groomer in the salon or at home, on a special table. In addition to space, you need to purchase equipment.
Various care options
Full groom
This grooming service is one of the most popular.
It is quite complex and the dog will go through many procedures.
First, the groomer combs the pet, removes dead hair and cleans the ear canals with a special lotion.
They are going to trim the dog's nails, after which the paw sections are trimmed.
Then it's bath time.
The groomer will only use professional shampoos and conditioners.
Once this procedure is completed, the groomer will use a towel and hair dryer to dry the dog.
The next step is very important - cleaning, where all tangles must be carefully removed.
The ones listed above are the basic Full Groom procedures.
Only when this is done will the cutting process begin. You can choose between different styles or simply tell the groomer what you want.
A professional groomer does more than just cut off excess hair. They will also form lines on the head, legs and chest.
Full Groom is the best service for people who really want their poodles to look fashionable and appreciate the quality of a dog's appearance.
Sanitary finishing for poodles
Not the expensive service that sometimes confuses people because they think it only involves cutting the parts around the genitals and anus.
The procedure begins with combing, after which the groomer cuts and shapes the tail.
The next important step is trimming the area around the anus - this is part of maintaining hygiene.
Then comes the next step - cleaning the ear canals (a special lotion will be used by the groomer) and the eye area.
The areas below and around the paw pads will be done and the nails could be cut if necessary.
This service consists of trimming and shaping those areas that need to be kept short to prevent irritation and maintain proper dog hygiene.
The genitals, anus and paw pads must be trimmed.
Eyes and ears were cleaned.
Keeping these areas clean and short at all times can help you prevent future problems.
What is necessary
For home processing, you will need to prepare a place. Any stable horizontal surface (such as a table) will do.
Haircut is at the discretion of the owner
The main thing is that it is comfortable for the dog and the “hairdresser”. It is advisable to lay a rubberized mat on top. This will help the animal feel confident and not slip. It is important to ensure sufficient lighting levels. The following tools are prepared in advance:
- hair trimmer;
- scissors with well-sharpened blades (will help you style your hair at the final stage);
- comb, brush with hard bristles (it is better to purchase metal tools rather than plastic ones);
- tangle cutter (a special device for cutting out tangled lumps);
- nail clipper
Note! The entire set is prepared in advance so that it is “at hand”. It is not recommended to interrupt the procedure.
The dog looks well-groomed and presentable after a haircut
Basic rules for grooming poodles
When grooming a dog, you must adhere to certain rules, regardless of the method or type of hairstyle. The main thing is that the pet should be comfortable and calm. Key points on how to cut a poodle's hair:
- the dog must remain in one position throughout the entire procedure;
- the wool is cut in the direction of hair growth;
- movements with the machine are carried out carefully, repeating the outlines of the anatomical shape.
Important! All tools must be checked in advance: scissors with sharp blades, the machine is in good condition.
The color of the animal can be different, the main thing is timely care of the coat
How to trim paws and claws
Paws and claws are trimmed carefully. A special device is used for claws. Cut at an angle of 45°. It is important not to damage the blood vessels located in the inner part.
How to trim your face and head
A clipper is used to trim the fur on the animal's face. Move from the back of the nose to the ears, cheekbones last. The muzzle and neck are processed up to the protruding part of the chest.
How to trim ears and tail
Handle the ears carefully. The hair is cut with small scissors or a clipper. The tail is shaved from the base to 2-3 cm in length. The hair around the anus is cut as short as possible.
How to trim your belly
The animal's genitals are completely shaved. During hygienic cutting, the belly hair is cut from the navel to the reproductive system as short as possible.
Bathing after a haircut at home
The pet is bathed before and after the procedure. After clipping, the animal is placed in a small bath or container with warm water. Shampoo is purchased in specialized stores in accordance with the age of the dog. The fur around the eyes is lubricated with Vaseline and oil. The ears must be plugged with a cotton swab.
Note! To make the coat easier to comb after drying, use a special conditioner for dogs.
Basic Rules
If you decide to trim your pet at home, then you need to know the basic rules so that your poodle is trimmed neatly and so as not to harm the animal.
So, the basic rules for cutting a poodle:
- Before you start cutting, decide on its shape. When starting the procedure, you must know what needs to be done and in what order.
- Before the procedure, be sure to bathe your dog and dry its fur. It is highly not recommended to cut your dog's hair if its coat is dirty or wet.
- After bathing, it is advisable to treat the coat with a balm appropriate to the type of coat for easier combing.
- If your pet does not want to get a haircut, snaps or bites, postpone the procedure for several days.
- The dog is groomed in a standing position.
- Any haircut always starts from the back, gradually moving down.
- The dog's face and belly should be trimmed extremely carefully, as the skin in these areas is especially delicate.
- Particular attention should be paid to the hair between the toes, as matted clumps can cause pain to the dog. Whenever you groom, be sure to trim the hair between your toes.
- The dog should not be turned during the procedure. You will have to walk around it yourself.
- During processing, the clipper and scissors should move parallel to the cutting area and follow the anatomical contours of the dog.
- The haircut should always be done in the direction of hair growth, with the exception of the front paws, here the hair is cut against the growth.
- If you are planning a short haircut, then you should not remove all the hair at once, do it in stages so as not to injure your pet.
- The pet's belly and paws must be treated, regardless of the hairstyle.
Instructions for performing a haircut according to the “Scandinavian Lion” pattern
Model haircuts are performed according to certain patterns. It is advisable to familiarize yourself with the nuances and video lessons in advance in order to understand how to trim a poodle at home, or attend a master class. Key points when styling your hair in the Scandinavian Lion style:
- The trimmer attachment is selected with a short length. It is installed and treated on the face, cheekbones, and neck.
- Then they move on to the hind legs.
- The groin area and thighs are cut as short as possible.
- A pompom is formed at the end of the tail.
In addition, bracelets are left on the limbs. The rest is cut to the desired shape with scissors.
"Modern"
For a modern haircut, the poodle is placed on a table and the pet's face is shaved. Males sometimes leave a mustache. A “cock” is formed on the top of the head. The improvised mane is cut with scissors from the neck to the sides. Pants are left on the paws.
"Hygienic"
For a hygienic haircut at home, use a standard set of tools. The dog is thoroughly treated and bathed twice.
"Korean"
Before the Korean haircut, the poodle is bathed, thoroughly washing off the remaining shampoo and conditioner. The wool is dried with a hairdryer, directing air to the base of the hairs. The pet is combed out. The body, neck and limbs are cut to a length of 2.5 cm.
Additional Information. A mustache and a small beard are formed on the muzzle. A groomed dog should look like a puppy. The maximum length is left on the ears.
Which machine to choose
Yorkie boy and girl haircut: how to cut it
How to trim a poodle's hair yourself? It is necessary to choose a special device for grooming dogs. The difference in devices depends on weight, durability, price, operating time without overheating, and ergonomics.
Note! If you have several dogs, it is better to buy a professional electric machine with an electric motor and gearbox. If the dog is alone, then the choice is a device with a vibration drive and rigidly fixed knives. The device should have a function for adjusting hair length 0.5-3 mm or 0.5-15 mm.
Popular models:
- German manufacturers - Moser, Aesculap;
- American brands - Wahl Clipper Corporation, Oster.
Before purchasing equipment, it is better to seek advice from professionals.
Which haircuts are best for puppies, miniature and toy poodles?
Initially, poodles were not cut for beauty. Long hair prevented dogs from hunting and entering holes.
Haircut options for small dogs:
- Puppies are treated hygienically, leaving hair as short as possible. The “puppy” or “clown” option is suitable.
- Miniature poodle haircuts are divided into classic and model. If an exhibition is planned, it is necessary to clarify the recommendations of the commission members.
- Various options are suitable for toy poodles - teddy bear or urku, puppy, sports and others.
It is important to accustom your dog to using a hairdryer when drying wool from puppyhood.
How much does professional grooming cost?
The cost of a professional’s work depends on the type of poodle:
| Classical | Scandinavian lion | Modern | Korean | English | |
| Dwarf | 1800 rub. | 2400 rub. | 2350 rub. | 2500 rub. | 2500 rub. |
| Small | 2100 rub. | 2500 rub. | 2400 rub. | 2600 rub. | 2650 rub. |
| Royal | 2700 rub. | 3800 rub. | 2500 rub. | 3500 rub. | 2900 rub. |
| Toy poodle | 1700 rub. | 2300 rub. | 2250 rub. | 2400 rub. | 2400 rub.* |
For your information! The price for a hairstyle may vary depending on the region of residence, the level of the hairdressing salon, and the professionalism of the hairdresser. When visiting a home, the cost increases.
