Instructions on Clipping Poodles

Visit a pet store or grooming shop, and you will notice an inordinate number of poodles being serviced. Because the poodle's hair does not shed, it requires regular grooming. Some pet owners have weekly appointments, while other take on the task themselves. There are many styles used in poodle trimming, and they range from simple and low maintenance to ornate and dog show ready.

Things You'll Need

  • Electric clippers with 10 and 15 blades
  • Dog comb
  • Scissors
  • Dog shampoo
  • Instruction book or video
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Instructions

    • 1

      Gather the materials for the job. This includes a set of electric clippers, a comb, shampoo and a book or video with instruction.

      YouTube offers several tutorials, and poodle authorities such as Poodle Place suggest clipping and grooming books by Shirlee Kalstone.

    • 2

      Wash your dog with pet shampoo. A clean coat will be easier to trim.

    • 3

      Choose a clipping style. Because poodle hair does not shed, there are more cutting options available than for other breeds.

      Among the more popular styles are the Kennel, Bikini, Continental and English Saddle clips.

    • 4

      Remember that some styles require more care than others. The Kennel clip keeps hair basically the same length all over the body and is therefore low maintenance. The Teddy Bear clip, on the other hand, requires constant brushing, and the dog must be checked twice a day from head to toe for food or waste stuck to the hair.

    • 5

      Follow the specific instructions for the style you'd like for the dog. Each style requires planning ahead and cutting several lengths of hair on different parts of the body.

      In the English Saddle clip, for example, you will shave only the face, forelegs and base of the tail. For the Continental, similar trims are made of the face and base of the tail, but the hindquarters are also shaved closely.

    • 6

      Reward your poodle with a treat or a run outside. Remember, it had to stand still and behave while being clipped.