Traditional Puppy Cuts

Trimming your dog's hair is part of its grooming. Dogs may have breed-specific trimming styles, designed to keep the dogs warm or emphasize specific characteristics of the dog's body. For instance, the continental style is ideal for poodles, while long-haired breeds can receive the teddy bear or the lamb cut. The lion cut is common in Pomeranians. The puppy cut is suitable for all canine breeds and it is easy to do and maintain.

  1. The Puppy Cut

    • The puppy cut is a hair style that may be used in all dog breeds because it is a practical choice. The cut is also known as the kennel cut, because young puppies in kennels often receive this cut. The puppy cut consists of cutting all the hair on the dog's body to the same length, including the hair on the legs, tail and ears. The puppy cut doesn't involve any aesthetic details and is not as complicated as other hair styles for dogs. The kennel cut is comfortable for the pet, especially during summertime and is also advantageous for the owner because the coat is less prone to matting and doesn't require frequent brushing.

    The Puppy Clip for Poodles

    • The puppy clip is a variation of the traditional lion trim given to show poodles that are younger than 1. This cut is approved by the American Kennel Club for show puppies. The clip consists of shaving the face, feet and the base of the tail. The hair that covers the body is left long, to emphasize the shape of the poodle. The pack area is shaped to create a neckline. The top knot is not cut, but pulled into a ponytail.

    The Teddy Bear Cut

    • The teddy bear cut gives dogs a fluffy appearance and may be used on several dog breeds. The hair on the body of the dog is scissored to one-half inch. However, the length can be adjusted according to the preferences of the owner. The hair on the legs and head is left at full length, which makes the puppy look like a teddy bear.

    The Lamb Clip

    • The lamb cut is similar to the teddy bear cut, but the hair length on the body is slightly shorter. The groomer cuts the hair on the back, stomach and neck to one-fourth of an inch and leaves the hair on the head, tail and legs longer and fluffy. Sometimes, the hair on the head, tail and legs is slightly trimmed to emphasize the specifics of each breed.