How to Give a Dog a Puppy Cut at Home: Easy Guide

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The puppy cut is the go-to style for owners who want a cute, low-maintenance coat. It is forgiving, easy to maintain and a good first project for home groomers.

What is a puppy cut?

A puppy cut is an even length across the body, legs and tail, usually between about 1 and 2 inches. The head is often rounded and soft, which gives a teddy bear look. It suits curly and silky coats best. See curly-coat grooming and silky-coat grooming.

Tools

• Clippers with guard combs. See best dog clippers for home grooming
• A guard for 13 to 25 millimetres. See dog clipper guard sizes explained
• Blunt-tipped scissors. See how to use grooming scissors on a dog
• Slicker brush and comb
• Non-slip mat
• Treats

Preparation

1. Brush the coat and remove every mat. See how to remove mats from dog hair.
2. Bathe and dry thoroughly. See how to dry a dog after a bath.
3. Walk your dog so that he or she is relaxed.
4. Check that clippers and blades are oiled.

Step by step

1. Clip the body. Start at the neck and run the clipper along the back, in the direction of hair growth, then down the sides and belly.
2. Clip the chest and shoulders. Keep the blade flat.
3. Clip the legs and tail with the same guard, or leave a little longer for a fluffy look.
4. Blend any lines by running the clipper over them, or by using scissors.
5. Scissor the face. Round the head and muzzle with blunt scissors, comb forward and trim evenly. See how to trim hair around a dog's eyes.
6. Tidy the feet and trim hair level with the pads. See how to trim hair between dog paw pads.
7. Trim the sanitary area. See how to do a sanitary trim.
8. Brush out and check for uneven spots.

Tips for an even result

• Make long, steady strokes
• Overlap passes
• Check at different angles
• Stand your dog on a table or sturdy surface for even access
• Take breaks

Ears and tails

Ears can be left longer for a fluffy look. Trim hair on the edge of the ear flap neatly. Taper the tail for a natural finish. For ear care, see how to clean a dog's ears.

Maintenance

Brush several times a week and trim every four to eight weeks. Keep the face and feet tidy in between.

Common mistakes

• Starting with too short a guard
• Clipping a dirty or tangled coat
• Rushing the face
• Not blending

When to book a groomer

If you are nervous about the face or the coat is badly matted, a groomer can take over. See how to choose a professional dog groomer.

Choosing the right length for your dog

If your dog's coat grows fast or mats easily, go shorter, about 13 millimetres, since it is easier to brush. If you prefer a fluffier teddy bear look and can brush often, choose 19 to 25 millimetres. Take a photograph of your dog before and after, and note the guard you used, so you can repeat or adjust at the next trim.

Keeping your dog calm

Break the session into short stages, with treats between steps. Let your dog rest if he or she tires, and finish the job the next day if necessary. Never scold a restless dog, because patience matters more than speed.

The takeaway

Choose a comfortable guard length, clip with the grain and finish with careful scissor work. A puppy cut is easy to maintain with regular brushing.