Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Bernedoodles, Cavapoos and Maltipoos have coats that keep growing, so every doodle owner eventually faces the same question at the grooming counter: what cut do you want? The right style depends less on looks than on how much brushing you'll realistically do. Here are the most popular doodle haircut styles, what each involves, and how to ask for them.
Get your dog's personalized routine — take the free 2-min quizStart the Pawfile quiz →1. Teddy bear cut
The most requested doodle style. The body is trimmed to an even length, usually 1 to 2 inches, and the face is rounded with a fuller muzzle and soft ears, giving a plush, stuffed-animal look. It needs brushing several times a week to stay tangle-free. Full details in our teddy bear cut guide.
2. Puppy cut
A short, even length all over, typically half an inch to an inch, with a neat, tidy face. It's the easiest doodle cut to maintain and a smart choice for Florida summers, swimmers and families who can't brush daily. See the puppy cut guide.
3. Lamb cut
Shorter on the body and longer, fluffier on the legs, giving a soft lamb-like silhouette. It looks great but the legs need extra brushing, since leg hair mats quickly from walking through grass and water.
4. Kennel cut or shave-down
Very short all over, usually a quarter to half an inch. It's practical for heavily matted coats, very active dogs and the hottest months. It isn't the cutest look, but the coat grows back within weeks and it gives you a fresh start for a new brushing routine.
5. Natural or shaggy doodle
A light tidy that keeps the coat long, trimming only the eyes, paws and sanitary area. It shows off the doodle's natural waves but demands the most work: daily line brushing and a full groom every 4 to 6 weeks.
6. Poodle-style face (clean face)
Any body style can be paired with a shaved muzzle instead of a fuller beard. Clean faces stay cleaner after meals and help with tear stains, while a fluffy face gives the classic doodle look.
How to choose the right doodle cut
- Brushing time: if you can brush less than 3 times a week, go short (puppy or kennel cut).
- Weather and water: in hot, humid areas and for pool or beach dogs, shorter cuts dry faster and mat less.
- Coat type: very curly, wool-like coats mat fastest; wavy fleece coats are a bit more forgiving.
- Budget and schedule: most doodles need a professional cut every 4 to 8 weeks regardless of style.
How to ask your groomer for the cut you want
- Bring a photo of the style you like, ideally of a dog with a similar coat.
- Talk in lengths, not names. "One inch on the body, a bit longer on the legs, round face" is clearer than "teddy bear", because names vary between groomers.
- Mention ears, tail and face separately.
- Be honest about matting. If the coat is matted, the groomer may need to go shorter than you planned.
Not sure if your doodle's coat is curly, wavy or straight? Take the free Pawfile quiz to get a routine and brushing schedule for your doodle's exact coat.
Get your dog's personalized routine — take the free 2-min quizStart the Pawfile quiz →Doodle haircut FAQ
What is the best doodle haircut for summer?
A puppy cut or kennel cut, around half an inch to an inch, dries faster and mats less in heat and humidity.
How often do doodles need a haircut?
Most doodles need a professional groom every 4 to 8 weeks, more often for longer styles.
Is a teddy bear cut the same as a puppy cut?
Not quite. Both are even body lengths, but a teddy bear cut usually leaves the body a bit longer and the face rounder and fuller.
Should I shave my doodle?
Doodles don't have the double coat that makes shaving harmful in other breeds, so a short cut is fine, especially if the coat is matted.
When should a doodle puppy get its first haircut?
Many start with short intro visits once their vaccines allow it and get a first full cut around 4 to 6 months. Follow your vet's advice.
This guide offers general grooming information. For skin, ear, dental or coat problems that don't improve, talk to your veterinarian. More Pawfile guides.