n the world of dog grooming, few breeds offer the opportunity for creativity like the poodle. Grooming a poodle requires technical skills to achieve a balanced trim, but it is also an art form, and one that so many groomers fall in love with.

While grooming any of the three AKC-recognized poodle varieties may seem intimidating to newcomers, learning to groom poodles is considered one of the best ways to improve overall grooming skills. Their coats require an eye for balance, specialized preparation and advanced techniques that sharpen a groomer’s expertise. Mastering poodle grooming isn’t just about styling—it’s about refining skills that apply to all breeds.

Poodles are a favorite of competitive groomer Yiyeon Bardo, who began her grooming career in Korea in 1997 under a Master Groomer. She has seen the evolution of poodle grooming firsthand: “In Korea in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, most grooming was a number seven all over, leaving only the ears, tail, and head in a cone shape. Sometimes Sporting or Miami clips were more advanced options,” Yiyeon recalls.

She also notes that there were some differences between popular styles in the U.S. at that time, but today, the global style is becoming more unified: “In the mid-to-late 2000s, poodle grooming usually involved cuts shorter than an inch, with the same length all over. The face was often left with a teddy bear shape, but it was usually boxy and less refined than today’s styles,” Yiyeon explains.

Her expertise has earned her numerous accolades, including first place with a Toy Poodle at the All American Grooming Show in 2013 and second place at the Poodle Club of America Grooming Competition in 2019.

Yiyeon emphasizes that a thorough understanding of the basics is essential for success with poodles: “Skills like blow-drying, understanding the breed standard, and managing the coat may seem simple, but they are fundamental,” she shares.

One of Yiyeon’s top tips is paying attention to the individual dog’s needs. Another tip she shares is that poodles in the salon with sensitive skin shouldn’t have their face and feet clipped as short. She also explains that checking the placement of where the “V” or “U” is set on the neck is crucial, as small details can make a big difference in the final look.

Grooming poodles is a career-long process. There’s always room to grow, and as groomers develop their skills, the breed continuously teaches them new techniques.

Amber Scott, a poodle groomer and pet stylist, discovered her love for the breed during grooming school: “I had never had any experience with poodles before then,” explains Amber. “The dogs were amazing to me, and they were so regal.”

A year after completing grooming school, Amber got her first poodle and has been passionate about the breed ever since. She enjoys all aspects of poodle ownership, from grooming to participating in dog sports.

For anyone trying to master poodle trims, Amber recommends hands-on experience: “If you’re serious about learning, get a poodle. If you already have one, find a mentor or explore online resources,” she shares.

Lakhi Thindal, a Master Groomer who has been grooming for 30 years, stresses that the key to achieving that perfect poodle trim lies in preparation: “I taught grooming for a couple of decades, and you often see groomers eager to jump straight to trimming,” says Lakhi.

He explains that drying, lifting, and combing techniques specific to poodles is what really sets the stage for a polished result.

Lakhi describes the moment when many students realize how important the prep work is: “When you cut that first layer and you see that beautiful, plush coat underneath, I think that is when a lot of students get that ‘aha’ moment,” he shares.

Professional dog groomer Megan Malovich, who shows and grooms poodles, also participates in fieldwork with her dogs. She emphasizes that maintaining a beautiful coat doesn’t mean sacrificing fun activities: “Learning how to manage and organize the hair without breaking it is such an important skill,” says Megan.

Her own poodle loves hunting and swimming, and Megan has found ways to allow her dog to enjoy these activities while maintaining a show coat: “It’s her favorite thing to do, so I make sure she can still enjoy it,” she explains.

Poodles are versatile, elegant and endlessly captivating. For many groomers, it’s impossible not to fall in love with this breed. Poodles teach groomers about coat care and the importance of preparation—a skill that can be applied to all dogs. For both seasoned professionals and groomers just starting out, grooming poodles is a journey that constantly challenges and inspires.