Miniature Poodle Clip Styles

When you take your poodle to the groomer, you're probably asked how you want her cut. While length is easy for the average dog owner, styling may not be. Knowing the common miniature poodle clip styles can help you communicate effectively and get an end result that suits your dog. There are only a few common poodle haircuts, so it's easy to learn the difference.

  1. Simple Clips

    • Poodles may be shown in the puppy clip if they are under a year old. The puppy clip is shaved close on the face, paws and base of the tail. The remainder of the coat may be scissored to shape it as necessary. The top knot is quite long, typically pulled into a ponytail or top knot on top of the dog's head. Worn fairly short, this is an easy and not particularly fussy option for your miniature poodle. Keep in mind that a longer coat, even in this style, will require more brushing. The lamb clip is a similar option for pet owners with a shorter all-over coat for less brushing and care. The kennel clip shaves the same areas, but is worn quite short on the body.

    Continental Clips

    • If you think of a show dog in the ring, the poodle style most common is the continental clip. The face, front legs, back legs and hindquarters are all shaved closely. Poms, or puffs, are left long between the paws and elbows on the front and back legs. The coat is left quite long on the rest of the body, and the top knot is worn in a ponytail. The tail is scissored into a round, pom-pom shape. Rosettes of fur remaining on the hips are optional in this cut. This cut requires frequent maintenance and is not common for pet poodles.

    The English Saddle Clip

    • From the front, the English saddle clip is much like the continental clip. The face is neatly shaved, and poms are left on each front leg. The top knot is left long and worn in a ponytail. A crescent is shaved close on the flank, around the end of the dog's rib cage. The joints of the legs are marked by shaved bands, and rounded poms on the back legs match the front legs. The coat on the hips is scissored to allow the shape of the body to be clearly seen under the coat; however, the hips and back legs are not fully shaved.