Teddy bear trims: the cute, cuddly cut explained
Round face, soft muzzle, fluffy legs and that irresistible cuddly look. Teddy bear trims are one of my specialities, so here's everything you need to know about them.
If you've ever seen a dog who looks like a walking soft toy, chances are they had a teddy bear trim. It's one of the most requested styles at my salon in Little Totham, and one of my favourite cuts to create.
What is a teddy bear trim?
A teddy bear trim isn't an official breed clip, it's a style. The aim is a soft, rounded, plush look, just like a teddy bear. It usually includes:
- A round head and face, with the muzzle shaped short and soft
- Ears blended into the round shape of the head, or left a little longer
- An even, fluffy body length
- Fuller legs scissored into neat, straight columns
- Round, tidy feet
Every teddy trim is a little different, because I shape it to suit your dog's face, coat and proportions.
Which dogs suit a teddy bear trim?
Teddy trims work best on dogs with curly, wavy or fluffy coats that hold a scissored shape. I most often create them on:
- Cockapoos, cavapoos and other doodles
- Poodles of every size
- Bichons
- Shih tzus, Maltese and Yorkshire terriers
- Pomeranians
Not sure if your dog's coat will suit it? Send me a photo and I'll let you know.
How I create a teddy bear trim
The secret to a great teddy trim is the prep. Every coat is bathed, conditioned and fully fluff dried so the hair stands up straight and even. That gives me the perfect canvas to scissor the soft, rounded shapes that make a teddy trim so special. The face is the most important part, so I take my time getting the eyes, muzzle and head shape balanced.
Groomer's tip: bring a photo of the look you love. "Teddy" means different things to different people, and a picture helps me get it exactly right.
Choosing the right length
You don't have to choose between cute and practical. A shorter teddy trim is easier to look after and great for active dogs and muddy months. A longer, plusher teddy trim looks gorgeous but needs more brushing at home. We'll chat about your dog's lifestyle and find the right balance.
Keeping a teddy trim looking fresh
- Brush every couple of days with a slicker brush, right down to the skin
- Follow up with a metal comb to catch any hidden tangles
- Pay extra attention to the face, ears, armpits and legs
- Dry your dog properly after wet walks
- Book a groom every 6 to 8 weeks to keep the shape
My cockapoo coat care guide has lots more tips for fluffy coats.
What if my dog is matted?
A teddy trim needs a tangle free coat. If your dog is matted, their coat will have to be clipped short first. We can then grow the coat back and get the teddy look you'd like, and I'll show you how to care for it at home.
Book a teddy bear trim near Maldon
If you're looking for a teddy bear trim in Maldon, Tiptree, Witham, Chelmsford or anywhere nearby, I'd love to help. Love something a little more creative? Have a look at my guide to Asian Fusion grooming.
Izzy is a City & Guilds Level 2 and 3 qualified groomer, a BIGA member and an award winner at multiple dog grooming competitions, including competing at Crufts. She runs Izzy's Groom Room in Little Totham, near Maldon.
