Different Haircuts for Dogs

There are several types of haircuts for dogs depending upon the breed of dog and the activity being performed by the dog. Also, dog breeder associations require breed coats to meet standards set by the American Kennel Club during events and shows. While there are many dogs that can have their coat cut, the standard poodle has one of the most versatile coats, which allows it to accept many grooming styles.

  1. Show Cuts

    • Show haircuts are required to maintain the acceptable appearance of the breed such as the short, even cut of the Bichon and the long, flowing cuts of the Maltese and Yorkshire terrier. Larger dogs, such as the standard poodle, have two common grooming cuts. The first is the short even trim all over the body, and the second shaves the coat close to the skin and leaves hair on the major joints, the chest and tail tip.

    Utiltiy Cuts

    • Utility haircuts are those that are done to prevent coat soiling and reduce coat maintenance. Long hair breeds such as the cocker spaniel can be trimmed leaving a short puppy cut; the same can be done with Yorkshire and Maltese terriers. Generally, utility cuts are called puppy cuts because they resemble the short, manageable lengths of puppy coats. Puppy cuts can vary in length and are among the most common type of dog haircut for long-haired breeds.

    Other Types of Haircuts

    • There are also haircuts for dogs that are for fun or exhibit, such as using pet-safe hair dyes and coat cuts that will replicate another animal's coat pattern. Poodles have been cut and dyed to mimic giraffes and chow chows have been dyed to resemble panda bears. Long-haired toy breeds happily wear bows and pony-tails that keep hair from falling into food bowls and irritating eyes during playtime.

    Considerations

    • Dog groomers are experienced in cutting several types of known coat patterns and many are comfortable cutting or shaping a coat based on the owners description or request. A quality dog groomer will have a clean atmosphere and handle animals in a kind fashion. There are also professional dog groom supplies such a s clippers, brushes and combs that can be purchased so that dog owners can groom their dogs at home.