Top 10 Most Popular Dog Grooming Styles Every Pet Lover Should Know

 

Grooming isn’t just about making your dog look cute—it’s essential for their hygiene, comfort, and overall well-being. While regular brushing and bathing are fundamental, choosing the right grooming style can transform your furry friend’s appearance and help manage their coat better. Different breeds and coat types demand specific grooming techniques, and styles can also reflect your dog’s personality and lifestyle.

Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance trim or a show-worthy style, there’s a grooming cut to suit every pup. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 10 most popular dog grooming styles that pet lovers adore. Learn what makes each style unique, which dogs they work best for, and how to maintain them. Perfect for first-time pet parents or seasoned dog owners alike, this list is your starting point to keeping your pup stylish and healthy.

1. The Puppy Cut: Universally Adorable

The puppy cut is one of the most beloved grooming styles across all dog breeds, and for good reason—it’s simple, clean, and easy to maintain. It gives dogs a youthful, fluffy appearance, hence the name.

• What is it?
  A uniform trim (usually 1–2 inches all over the body) that removes excess coat and evens out the fur.

• Best for:
  Shih Tzus, Poodles, Yorkies, Golden Retrievers, and mixed breeds with medium to long hair.

• Benefits:
  • Reduces matting

  • Easier brushing

  • Keeps dogs cool in warmer months

  • Ideal for active dogs who love to play outdoors

Pro Tip: Request rounded edges on the face and paws for extra cuteness!

2. The Teddy Bear Cut: Cute and Cuddly

Ever wonder how some dogs look like plush toys? That’s the Teddy Bear cut—a grooming style that creates a round, fluffy head with a proportionately trimmed body, giving your dog a charming, stuffed-animal appearance.

• What is it?
  A scissored style with slightly longer hair on the face and shorter on the body.

• Best for:
  Poodles, Doodles (Goldendoodles, Labradoodles), Bichon Frises, and Maltipoos.

• Why pet lovers love it:
  • Ultra cute and photogenic

  • Perfect for Instagram pups

  • Brings out a dog’s expressive eyes

Maintenance tip: Requires regular brushing and grooming every 4–6 weeks to prevent tangles.

3. The Lion Cut: Bold and Beautiful

This striking grooming style gives your pup a regal makeover. The Lion Cut mimics a lion’s mane by keeping the fur long around the neck and chest while the rest of the body is shaved or trimmed short.

• What is it?
  A cut with a full mane around the head and chest, shaved midsection, and sometimes fluffy tufts left on the tail and paws.

• Best for:
  Pomeranians, Chow Chows, Shih Tzus, and even long-haired cats (yes, cats too!).

• Best for summer:
  Keeps body temperature lower without compromising a dramatic look.

Note: Not ideal for double-coated dogs, as shaving can damage the natural coat.

4. The Kennel Cut: Low-Maintenance Favorite

Popular among busy pet parents, the Kennel Cut is a practical grooming style designed to keep dogs neat and tangle-free with minimal effort.

• What is it?
  An all-over short cut with uniform length, usually ¼ inch to ½ inch across the body.

• Best for:
  Poodles, Schnauzers, and other breeds with fast-growing or curly coats.

• Why choose it?
  • Easy upkeep

  • Reduces the risk of matting

  • Perfect for summer months or active dogs

Bonus: Add a slightly longer trim to the face or tail for a customized look.

5. The Lamb Cut: Soft and Elegant

If you’re going for a stylish yet manageable look, the Lamb Cut offers a fashionable alternative with its soft curves and clean lines.

• What is it?
  The hair on the body is clipped short while the legs and face are left slightly longer and rounded for a “lamb-like” silhouette.

• Best for:
  Poodles, Doodles, and Bichons.

• Highlights:
  • Soft aesthetic with volume in the right places

  • Keeps dirt off the torso

  • Ideal for colder seasons when dogs need a bit more coverage

This cut works well with dogs that have curly or textured hair that holds shape.

6. The Schnauzer Cut: Breed-Specific Chic

Originally tailored for Schnauzers, this classic style emphasizes a well-trimmed body with pronounced “furnishings” on the legs, beard, and eyebrows.

• What is it?
  A breed-standard cut with short back and sides, longer hair on the legs, and distinctive facial furnishings.

• Best for:
  Miniature, Standard, and Giant Schnauzers—but also popular with Scotties and other terriers.

• Signature features:
  • Defined beard and brows

  • Smart, alert appearance

  • Easy to maintain

Tip: Combine with hand-stripping if your Schnauzer has a wiry coat.

7. The Cocker Cut: Stylish and Practical

Tailored for Cocker Spaniels, the Cocker Cut brings out the breed’s classic charm while maintaining manageable hair length.

• What is it?
  A cut that leaves medium-length fur on the ears and legs while trimming the body shorter.

• Best for:
  American and English Cocker Spaniels, but also works for Springer Spaniels.

• Why it’s popular:
  • Keeps feathering under control

  • Accentuates the breed’s elegant build

  • Reduces the chances of matting in long fur

Regular brushing is essential to prevent tangles in the feathered parts.

8. The Sporting Cut: Ready for Adventure

Perfect for active and outdoor-loving dogs, the Sporting Cut combines style and function. It’s a popular choice among hunting and sporting breeds.

• What is it?
  A medium-length cut that reduces bulk while preserving the coat’s protective qualities.

• Best for:
  Golden Retrievers, Setters, Spaniels, and mixed sporting breeds.

• Why choose it?
  • Easy to clean

  • Less fur trapped in brambles or burrs

  • Great balance of style and practicality

Groomer’s tip: Ask for light trimming on the tail and ears to maintain the breed’s natural flair.

9. The Mohawk Cut: Funky and Fun

Want to make a statement? The Mohawk Cut is all about personality and flair—ideal for dogs with confidence and sass!

• What is it?
  Shaved or short-cut body with a spiked strip of fur left along the head and back.

• Best for:
  Bulldogs, Poodles, or any small breed with a bold spirit.

• Why pet lovers choose it:
  • Creative expression

  • Fun and attention-grabbing

  • Great conversation starter

This look is best maintained with a bit of pet-safe hair gel or spray to keep the mohawk upright.

10. Dog Grooming Styles for Double-Coated Breeds: What Works Best?

Choosing the right grooming style for double-coated dogs (like Huskies or German Shepherds) can be tricky. Shaving is often discouraged, but there are safe ways to groom while keeping their coat healthy.

• What is it?
  Not a “cut” in the traditional sense. Instead, the focus is on de-shedding, undercoat removal, and light trimming for neatness.

• Best for:
  Huskies, Akitas, Collies, German Shepherds, and other northern or working breeds.

• Safe grooming practices:
  • Use undercoat rakes or deshedding tools

  • Light trimming around paws, hocks, and sanitary areas

  • Avoid shaving to prevent overheating and sunburn

Important: Always consult with a groomer familiar with double coats to avoid irreversible damage.

How Often Should You Groom Your Dog?

Grooming frequency depends on your dog’s breed, coat type, and lifestyle. Some dogs need professional grooming every 4–6 weeks, while others may only need occasional trims and regular brushing at home.

General guidelines:

• Long-haired breeds (e.g., Shih Tzus, Maltese): Every 4–6 weeks

• Curly-coated breeds (e.g., Poodles, Doodles): Every 4–8 weeks

• Short-haired breeds (e.g., Beagles, Bulldogs): Bathing every 6–8 weeks; trimming rarely required

• Double-coated breeds (e.g., Huskies, Shepherds): Deshedding every 6–8 weeks (avoid shaving)

In between grooming sessions, regular brushing helps keep the coat healthy and prevents matting or buildup of dirt.

Best Dog Grooming Styles for Summer

In hot weather, grooming can help your dog stay comfortable and cool, but it’s important to do it the right way. Some dogs benefit from shorter trims, while others (especially double-coated breeds) shouldn’t be shaved.

Recommended summer grooming styles:

1. Kennel Cut: Low-maintenance, breathable, and perfect for active dogs

2. Puppy Cut: Keeps the fur short without exposing too much skin

3. Sporting Cut: Offers freedom of movement while reducing excess fur

4. Deshedding Treatments: Ideal for breeds that shed seasonally, such as Labradors or Golden Retrievers

Note: Always leave at least ½ inch of fur to protect against sunburn.

Which Grooming Style Suits Your Dog’s Breed?

Not all grooming styles fit all dogs. Some cuts are designed to enhance breed-specific features, while others are more functional. Knowing your dog’s coat type and breed traits helps ensure you choose the right look.

Breed-to-style examples:

• Poodles: Teddy Bear Cut, Lamb Cut, or Continental Cut (for show)

• Shih Tzus & Yorkies: Puppy Cut or Top Knot Style

• Schnauzers & Terriers: Schnauzer Cut or Hand-Stripped Cut

• Cocker Spaniels & Setters: Cocker Cut or Sporting Cut

• Doodles & Bichons: Teddy Bear Cut or Lamb Cut

If your dog is a mixed breed, ask your groomer which style suits their coat best.

Home Grooming Tips Between Appointments

Keeping up with grooming at home helps your dog stay clean and reduces the need for frequent professional visits. Even if you’re not trimming your dog yourself, basic upkeep goes a long way.

Must-do home care routines:

• Brushing: At least 2–3 times per week for long or curly coats

• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks using dog-specific shampoo

• Ear Cleaning: Weekly, especially for floppy-eared breeds

• Nail Trimming: Every 3–4 weeks or when you hear clicking sounds

• Eye Cleaning: Use a damp cotton to remove tear stains regularly

Start slowly if your dog isn’t used to grooming—treats and praise help build positive associations.

Final Thoughts: Which Grooming Style is Best for Your Dog?

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to dog grooming styles. The best cut depends on your dog’s breed, coat type, activity level, and even personality. Whether you want a low-maintenance trim like the Kennel Cut or something creative like a Mohawk, grooming is a chance to bond with your pet and keep them happy and healthy.

Don’t be afraid to experiment—with your groomer’s guidance—to find what works best for you and your furry friend. Most importantly, regular grooming (regardless of style) prevents skin issues, matting, and keeps your dog looking and feeling their best.

Summary: Top 10 Dog Grooming Styles at a Glance

Grooming Style	Best For	Maintenance Level
Puppy Cut	Most breeds	Low
Teddy Bear Cut	Poodles, Doodles, Bichons	Medium
Lion Cut	Pomeranians, Shih Tzus	Medium–High
Kennel Cut	All breeds, especially active dogs	Low
Lamb Cut	Poodles, Bichons	Medium
Schnauzer Cut	Schnauzers, Scotties	Medium
Cocker Cut	Cocker Spaniels	Medium
Sporting Cut	Retrievers, Spaniels	Medium
Mohawk Cut	Bulldogs, Poodles	Medium
Double-Coat Grooming	Huskies, Shepherds, Northern breeds	High