Your dog’s fur is everywhere, on the couch, on your black leggings, probably in your coffee.
Grooming? Well, I need to do that as a full time job and I’ve not had any instructions on that either.
I also remember standing in my bathroom last summer with my cousin’s fluffy dog and a pair of scissors, wondering what in the world I should do with it. I can picture the dog now; it looked like a sad, overgrown cloud.
Changing the dog haircut may not only change the look of your dog but also reduce the hassle of your routine.
Less tumbleweeds of fur rolling across your Pinterest-perfect floors. And less “why does he smell like wet carpet” moments.
Here are 11 coat styles that work well in the real world — on real breeds, with real coat types and real life.
#1: The Cozy Corner Dog Bed Setup That Makes Your Pup Look Like Royalty
Don’t you just love when your golden retriever plops down right in the middle of your freshly styled living room and just makes it all look better? Well that is how this space makes me feel. It is calm, clean and your dog deserves a spot this cute.
And the star of this nook is a donut-style dog bed with a cream boucle exterior and a charcoal plaid inner bolster. It sits right in the corner against a light blue-painted wall, which gives the whole nook a quiet, airy feel. I love how the teal harness pulls in that blue.
Looking for something different? I recreated this room using a round bolster dog bed in a neutral boucle fabric (found them on Amazon and Chewy, prices range from $40-$80). Just tuck it into a corner of your room so your dog has that warm air they like. Then paint an accent wall something soft… I picked Benjamin Moore’s “Quiet Moments” and it is exactly the shade you see here.
One thing to remember: The placement of the bed in the corner of the room gives the dog a sense of security on two sides, making it easier for the dog to settle down if he is a bit nervous.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @chess.nutty
#2: The Freshly Groomed Goldendoodle With a Valentine’s Day Bandana Look
What is the first thought that comes to mind when you first see your dog after the groomer? He or she is still fluffy from the shampoo, still smelling like coconut and so proud of themselves because they know they look good! That’s exactly the feeling this photo is giving.
This cutie is a cream and apricot Goldendoodle rocking a fresh teddy bear cut – body clipped short, head left full and round – and rocking a white cotton bandana printed with red, pink, and burgundy hearts. Valentine’s Day goals and I’m not even a little sorry.
If you want to recreate this look, make sure to book with a groomer who does this style of cut. Not every groomer does it automatically, so just say the words out loud when you call: “teddy bear trim”.
The bandana part is super easy. Just grab a triangle-fold pet bandana (there are tons on Etsy for under $8) in a seasonal print and just tie it loosely around the collar snug enough so that it won’t fall off but loose enough that I can slip two fingers under it.
[IMAGE] Another tip I do with my own dog is that I have a small basket of different colored bandanas and rotate them each month by the door. It costs me hardly anything and every single time a guest comes in, they always say something about it.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @cooper_cockerpoo_north_wales
#3: The Longer Ear Look — A Fluffy, Face-Framing Grooming Style
Does your dog look so different when they come back from the groomer that you’re like “who even are you?” That happened to my friend Dani with her Cavapoo, and honestly the longer ear cut was the reason.
This style is full of fur and fun while keeping the body trimmed short. This pretty style works in cream or apricot tones with curly body fur left between 1-2 inches and the ear fur left around 3-4 inches long to frame the face. It’s cozy without looking too overdone.
Make sure to ask for a “teddy bear face with extended ear length” as many groomers will cut off your pups ears. If they just say longer ears they can mean different things to different groomers. Always bring a photo as well.
Due to the length of the ears on these curly coated dogs (cavapoos, maltipoos, etc.) the ear canal is more hidden, so it is important to make sure they are checked once a week to avoid moisture buildup in the ear canal. A small cotton ball wipe once a week can help prevent this problem.
And this pretty, wavy, unstyled top knot is giving off morning walk on cloud nine energy. Let your little one’s locks air dry after a bath and skip the blow dry.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @cigar517
#4: The 16mm Body + 19mm Head Groom That Makes Small Dogs Look Like Cloud Sculptures
I’m sure you have all had that moment where your dog’s fur gets so long you can’t even see their eyes. Well, I had that moment last week where I was just staring at my dog wondering where the hell their face went.
This is the groomer for the more fluffy puppy. My groomer used a 16mm clipper guard on my puppy’s body so that it wouldn’t get too square and then switched to a 19mm on the head to give it that big puffy cloud look. The scissor icon on my puppy’s legs indicate where hand scissoring was done to round off those paws perfectly.
And the topknot is just a tiny bunch of hair gathered up into an orange bow. It makes the whole thing look intentional.
Next, ask your groomer to keep the length slightly longer on the head than on the body. This 3mm difference will create a domed, sculpted shape, as opposed to a flat buzz.
I would highly recommend the 19mm head + 16mm body combo. The coat stays long enough to be soft, but short enough that she doesn’t get dirty. No matting happens between appointments as long as I brush her twice a week with a slicker brush.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @groomermichel
#5: The Before-and-After Grooming Glow-Up Your Doodle Deserves
The difference between the left and right side of her head is so phenomenal. Left: full shaggy chaos with fur covering her eyes and some little curls sticking out in random directions. Right: groomed up teddy bear with tight chocolate-auburn curls and a clean face trim that reveals her gorgeous eyes.
His name is Labradoodle (or possibly a Cockapoo). I think the colour of his coat is so lovely – that warm, reddish-caramel brown that photographs so well against a neutral backdrop. I especially like the picture of him in the cozy living room with the blue-grey upholstered sofa, the white built-in bookshelves and the taupe textured cushions!
The trim on the right keeps the body coat short and curly, while leaving the head full. This is a “teddy bear cut”. Ask your groomer for this cut. It keeps the fur out of the dog’s eyes and cut’s down on brushing time for you.
That also means less matting and less need for emergency grooming appointments. No one tells you about that!
Book me for a groom every 6-8 weeks. Any longer, and you’re fighting tangles even detangler spray can’t solve.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @indy.de.labradoodle
#6: Felt Ball Collar in Purple and White for Small Dogs
Does your dog always wear the same ol’ collar? Perhaps a basic collar that blends in with everything? Well, it happened to me with this little poodle puppy, who has on a felt ball collar that is purple, lavender, and white. And that stopped me mid-scroll.
This collar is made of wool felt balls tied together with an alternating of deep purple, soft lilac, and white at the very base of the neck. This one is one of those collars that make your dog look like they’re posing for a Pinterest photoshoot, and you spent more than 20 minutes on it.
It’s a breeze to make yourself. All you need is a pack of wool felt balls from your local craft store, a length of elastic cord, and a needle. String them in whatever color pattern you like, tie it off, and you’re done!
Your dog’s neck is going to dictate how much slack you add to the collar. Here is a simple tip, so you know how much slack you need to add to your dog’s collar: measure your dog’s neck, then add one inch of slack to the collar.
Felt is lightweight and soft and won’t hurt or irritate your dog’s fur, which means your dog won’t immediately paw it off. And if your pooch has a favorite dog gift tradition, this makes a great addition to that list!
Make a few different color combinations and switch them out by the season. Fun pastel colors for spring, or fall burnt oranges, and you can do this on a $5 budget.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @imgoldenivy
#7: The Perfectly Round Poodle Groom That Looks Like a Stuffed Animal
Photo by Dominika Roseclay on Pexels.com Your golden’s ears are flopped in your lap, and you’re scrolling through Pinterest thinking — why can’t my dog look this fabulous after a bath?
WELL THIS GROOMER HAS GIVEN THIS APRICOT-TONED POODLE FULL TEDDY BEAR ENERGY! A smooth dome has been created at the top of the poodle’s head, with the ears blown out flat and straight almost like little curtains framing the face. The muzzle has been rounded into a sphere as well, which makes it almost look like a cartoon.
All you need to get this at home is a slicker brush, a pair of curved grooming scissors and a blow dryer with a concentrator nozzle. The trick is drying the fur so that it is completely straight first, and then scissoring in the round shape section by section.
Real talk: The dome head and the round muzzle are sculpted separately. That’s the secret. Most people try to do it all at once and end up with a fluffy mess.
Book a teddy bear cut with your groomer and take a photo to show them. Make sure the muzzle is kept distinct from the head. Ask for the finishing spray at the end.
Make sure you brush your dog’s face fur forward so that the groomer has more to work with.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @samirgroomer
#8: Chocolate Cockapoo Curled Up in a Navy Dog Bed With a Chew Toy
I’ve got a golden retriever who takes “her spot” on the couch. She puts her front paws on the edge and doesn’t really look like she is doing anything wrong (according to her).
This photo gives me all the cozy vibes. A navy blue bolster dog bed is tucked in against a dark sofa and this little chocolate cockapoo is enjoying her nap on the side with her orange rubber chew toy. The leafy wallpaper in the background adds a moody touch to the Pinterest worthy room.
To get the look, start with a sturdy bolster bed in a navy canvas so your girl has something to rest her chin on. Add a pop of color with a bright orange or mustard chew toy, and if you’re in the market for a new bed, a dark botanical peel-and-stick panel behind the pet corner wall will do the trick.
There is one big difference that you can make to your dog’s environment that will prevent him from shedding on your couch, and it might sound like a small change, but it really works. Instead of putting your dog’s bed on the other side of the room, try putting it directly next to your sofa. You probably don’t want your dog sleeping in your bed, but we guarantee that leaning on you is a favorite place for your dog to spend a nap.
And I’ve got a bolster-style raised edge for my dogs to help them get a more natural head support, meaning less restless pacing at 2am.
Wash the bed cover every 10-14 days. Dark fabric hides fur between washings, so it’s important to do a quick lint roll twice a week.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @oohgaryc
#9: The Black and White Fluffy Dog That Breaks Every “One Color” Rule
My golden probably has a spot on the couch where she likes to hang out. Your dog probably has one too. If you have a pretty dog that spot is a photo op. I like to focus on the dog that is front and center in the photo. I don’t worry about the background.
He is a fluffy pup, who has a black and white coat, with wavy, almost cloud like texture. He has a white chest patch, which really contrasts with his deep black body, it almost looks like someone planned it!
If you want to create a similar vibe in a photo corner for your own dog, all you need is a white faux fur rug (the exact one in this shot looks like a Mongolian-style throw), place it on a black metal grid panel, and keep everything else out of the frame.
The white rug also pulls forward the coloring of the chest. It’s all feature-benefit-payoff. Light surface plus dark dog for contrast. No editing needed.
The trick is to keep your dog freshly groomed so that there are no matts and tangles that will flatten the texture. If you want the look of the hair to have as much volume as possible, brush with a slicker brush just before you take pictures.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @shannon_emma_beje33
#10: Teal Food-Print Harness on a Fluffy White Poodle Mix in the Backseat
I’m sure you have all been in that situation where your precious pup is about to hop in the car and you’re scrambling to find something that actually fits right and not too tight or it will slide off to one side and she will squirm her way out of it.
This little teal adjustable harness with cute food-print pattern (tiny cupcakes, milk cartons and little snacks) is doing everything right, except the reflective strip across the chest. Especially on a rainy day like this, where you can’t see anything!
The harness is from Pacifika Pet, and you can see the label on the strap at the bottom of the picture. It fits snug but flat against the chest, so it doesn’t bunch up or chafe during rides. The padding on the fit pulls the harness off the dog’s neck and onto her chest, so there’s no more coughing or stress.
Use a white fleece car seat cover on your leather seats to keep them protected.
Size down if your dog is fluffy. This fur will add bulk so we don’t want the jacket fitting too lose on the dog on the road.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @tatobearr
#11: The Green Bandana Moment Every Dog Mom Needs to Capture
Your golden is finally sitting still for two seconds and you’re finally able to get to your phone. Unfortunately the lighting is off, the background is cluttered and the picture just looks nothing like you had in your head.
This little cockapoo with his cream curls and forest green corduroy bandana is giving me all the feels today. I love a neutral background, clean white door, and a pop of color around his neck. It looks like it should be on Pinterest.
Grab a cool triangle bandana in ribbed corduroy or waffle fabric in a muted earth tone (sage, rust, or olive work well), and tie it loosely at the back of the neck so it sits flat against the chest. For our photo, we went super low and shot from slightly above eye level (so you can see her legs), and used a plain interior door for a backdrop.
Good news: For these shots, you really don’t need a fancy set up. A little bit of natural light from a nearby window, plus a solid colored door, and the bandana on her head are really all you need to make these look intentional. And the neutral background helps as well.
Shoot her immediately after a grooming session (because she will be calm and her coat will be fluffy) for that soft, round face that looks so good in close-ups.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @winstonthecockapoo.ky
The Coat Type Secret That Most Groomers Won’t Tell You Upfront
This was something I figured out recently (maybe one day I will learn to buy real estate sooner so that I could save some money). Anyway, I’ve been wondering why I’ve been getting these letters for my wife’s name that include our mailing address.
Golden retrievers have a double coat. That means a thick undercoat and a shorter outer coat. This double coat is airtight, so water and dirt can’t get into it. It also helps dogs stay warm in winter. However, in the summer it can get too hot.
What I find sad and strange is that people shave a double coated dog to make them cooler in the summer. The fact of the matter is, shaving a dog with a double coat messes up the layers and how the hair grows. I watched my neighbor do this to her Golden, Biscuit. It took almost 2 years for his coat to grow back in patchy and uneven.
What I did was ask my girl to get my girl a “deshedding trim” not a shave or a puppy cut. My girl thins the undercoat and trims the feathering around the legs and ears and then she’s Pinterest-perfect without any damage.
If your golden has been scratching himself like crazy after you groom him, he may have dog skin allergies. Many of these have simple home remedies.
Your Floors Deserve Better Than This
You have put so much love into your home, why let muddy paws ruin all that effort?
So, think of one room that stresses you out the most when your golden comes barreling in. This is the room I would start with. One good rug and one good routine and you will feel the difference.
Well, once you don’t dread the mess, you will actually enjoy your dog’s zoomies more. And that’s why we have a dog, right?
Which room in your house does your dog beat up the most? Leave a comment below and tell me about it! When it comes to keeping your dog looking and feeling their best, it’s important to keep their fur nice and short. Regular haircuts not only help your dog look and feel great but also prevent matting, reduce shedding, and help your dog regulate its body temperature. Whether you’re looking for a stylish trim or a practical cut to help keep maintenance easy, this guide covers everything you need to know about dog haircuts for different breeds, coat types, and seasons.
Why Dog Haircuts Matter
Benefits of Regular Dog Haircuts
A well-groomed dog is a happy dog. Here are a few benefits of haircuts for your dog.
- Prevents Matting: Long-haired dogs are prone to tangles and mats, which can cause skin irritation and discomfort.
- Reduces Shedding: Regular trims help manage excessive shedding, making home cleaning easier.
- Promotes Healthy Skin: A trimmed coat helps improve air circulation and reduces the risk of skin infections.
- Keeps Your Dog Comfortable: Overgrown hair can trap heat in summer and cause discomfort around the eyes and paws.
- Enhances Appearance: A stylish haircut gives your dog a fresh and adorable look.
How Often Should You Get Your Dog a Haircut?
For many of these dogs, cutting of the coat is needed every 6-8 weeks. There are a lot of factors that go into this, but it can be a good guideline.
| Coat Type | Recommended Haircut Frequency |
|---|---|
| Long-haired breeds | Every 4–6 weeks |
| Curly-coated breeds | Every 6–8 weeks |
| Double-coated breeds | Every 3–4 months (trimming only) |
| Short-haired breeds | No haircut needed, just brushing |
Signs Your Dog Needs a Haircut:
- Matted or tangled fur
- Hair covering their eyes
- Dirt and debris stuck in the coat
- Overheating in warm weather
Popular Dog Haircuts by Breed and Coat Type
Best Haircuts for Long-Haired Dogs
Long-haired breeds need to be trimmed regularly to avoid tangles and shedding. Some of the best haircut styles for them are:
- Puppy Cut – Short, even trim for easy maintenance.
- Teddy Bear Cut – Rounded face with a slightly longer body coat for a plush look.
- Feather Trim – Keeps the long, feathered fur on legs and tail intact while trimming the body.
Breeds That Benefit: Shih Tzu, Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier, Afghan Hound. .
Best Haircuts for Curly-Haired Dogs
Curly-coated breeds need frequent trims to avoid matting. Popular styles include:
- Lamb Cut – Short, fluffy trim that keeps curls manageable.
- Continental Cut – A classic Poodle show cut with shaved legs and pom-pom tail.
- Summer Trim – A shorter cut to keep dogs cool in warm weather.
Breeds That Benefit: Poodle, Bichon Frise, Portuguese Water Dog.
Best Haircuts for Double-Coated Dogs
Double-coated dogs shed seasonally, and shaving their fur can damage the coat. Instead of a full haircut, these dogs can be groomed with a trim around their legs, paws and belly.
- Thinning Out – Removes excess undercoat without cutting the top layer.
- Sanitary Trim – Trims fur around the belly and hindquarters for hygiene.
Breeds That Benefit: Golden Retrievers, Huskies, German Shepherds
Best Haircuts for Hypoallergenic Dogs
If you have a dog with a low-shedding coat, you’ll need to trim it often.
- Short Layered Cut – Helps keep curly coats in shape.
- Face & Paw Trim – Keeps the face neat and paws free of excess fur.
Breeds That Benefit: Labradoodles, Schnauzers, Portuguese Water Dogs
Trendy Dog Haircuts Ideas
1. Teddy Bear Cut
A soft, rounded cut that gives dogs a plush appearance. This is the cut most commonly seen on Poodles and Bichon Frises.
2. Puppy Cut
For a short, easy to maintain trim, this is the place to be. It works with just about any breed of dog.
3. Lion Cut
Also commonly used for Pomeranians and Chow Chows, this style gives the dog a “lion-like” mane, while keeping the body short.
4. Mohawk Style
For a playful, edgy look, a mohawk cut keeps hair longer along the spine.
5. Summer Cut
Just thought I’d share a few shorter trims for the hot weather so the dogs stay cooler.
DIY Dog Haircuts vs. Professional Grooming
Should You Cut Your Dog’s Hair at Home?
Doing it yourself can save you money, but make sure you know what you are doing. The same goes for home haircuts, for short-haired dogs.
Pros of DIY Grooming:
- Saves money on grooming costs.
- Allows more control over your dog’s haircut.
- Reduces stress for dogs who dislike groomers.
Cons of DIY Grooming:
- Risk of uneven cuts and injuries.
- Some breeds require professional handling.
How to Give Your Dog a Haircut at Home
Tools You Need:
- Dog-friendly clippers
- Scissors for precision trimming
- Brushes for detangling
- A grooming table or non-slip surface
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Brush your dog to remove tangles.
- Use clippers to get an even trim, starting from the back.
- Trim around sensitive areas (eyes, paws, tail) carefully.
- Reward your dog with treats for good behavior.
When to Visit a Professional Groomer
- If your dog has matted fur
- If you need a breed-specific cut
- If your dog is anxious or uncooperative
Seasonal Dog Haircuts Ideas
Best Haircuts for Summer
- Short trims to keep dogs cool.
- Avoid shaving double-coated dogs as it can damage their fur.
Best Haircuts for Winter
- Keep fur slightly longer for insulation.
- Trim around the paws to prevent snow buildup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Giving Your Dog a Haircut
- Cutting Too Short – Can cause skin irritation and sunburn.
- Using the Wrong Tools – Human clippers can pull on fur and cause discomfort.
- Skipping Brushing – Tangles make trimming difficult.
- Ignoring Post-Haircut Maintenance – Regular brushing prevents matting.
Final Thoughts on Dog Haircuts Ideas
A good haircut doesn’t just make your dog cute – it improves their comfort and general health. Regular haircuts and maintenance keeps your dog’s coat clean and healthy. Whether you choose to go to a professional groomer or cut your dog’s hair yourself, experimenting with different styles can find the right cut for your dog’s breed, personality and lifestyle.
Amr Mohsen is a software engineer who traded his keyboard for a leash — at least on weekends. His love for dogs inspired him to share what he learns as a dog owner and enthusiast, bringing a detail-oriented, research-driven perspective to every article he writes. If it’s about dogs, he’s probably already looked it up twice.
