Poodle: bathing, clipping and coat care

The Poodle has a curly coat. See how we care for it in the salon, how often to visit and what to do at home.

SizeMedium
Weight2–32 kg · Varies with size
Height24–60 cm
CoatCurly
SheddingLow
Poodle
Photo: Canichejouet · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons (cropped)

Breed facts

FCI groupGroup 9: Companion and toy dogs
OriginFrance
Weight2–32 kg · Varies with size
Height24–60 cm
Life expectancy12–15 years

Temperament

Very intelligent, active and easy to train, it loves learning tricks. Sensitive, it needs company.

History

Although associated with France, it descends from water dogs used to hunt waterfowl; the name “Poodle” comes from the German “Pudel”, meaning to splash.

Fun facts

It is said the classic “lion” clip had a practical purpose: protecting the joints and chest from the cold in the water.

The Poodle coat

A curly or wavy coat that sheds little but tangles and mats if not brushed.

There are four sizes (toy, miniature, medium and standard); the cut can be a breed clip or a more practical one, and the coat needs deep brushing.

What we do in the salon

We bathe, dry and brush thoroughly, then do a clipper-and-scissor trim or a scissor-only cut, as you prefer (breed clip or practical).

Recommended services

  • Bathabout 1 h
  • Clipper & scissor trimabout 2 h
  • Scissor cutabout 2 h

How often?

Bathevery 3 to 4 weeks
Cut / upkeepA cut every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the style.

Special attention

Tear stains: wipe the area every day with a damp cloth or pad; light coats stain easily.

This breed comes in several sizes or varieties: when booking, tell us your dog’s size and coat type.

Care at home between visits

  1. Brush thoroughly 2 to 3 times a week, down to the skin, not just the surface.
  2. Check behind the ears, armpits and paws, where the coat mats fastest.
  3. Wipe around the eyes with a damp cloth to prevent staining.
  4. Don't put off the cut: a badly matted coat may need a short clip.

Frequently asked questions about the Poodle

Does the Poodle shed a lot?

It sheds little. Even so, the coat can tangle or build up, so it should be brushed regularly.

How often should I bring my Poodle to the salon?

In general, a bath every 3 to 4 weeks. A cut every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the style. It depends on the coat, the cut you like and the condition of the coat: we will advise you at the first visit.

How long do a bath and a clip take?

When you book online, 1 hour is reserved for a bath and 2 hours for a clip, scissor cut or hand stripping. Very dense coats or large breeds may need more time: talk to us.

Can I keep the coat long?

Yes, but it needs deep, regular brushing. If the coat starts to mat, a shorter cut is best so the skin is not hurt.

Weight and height values are approximate and vary from dog to dog. Based on FCI standards and public breed profiles; care text: DogsClub. Last updated: October 2026.