Standard Poodle

Brûlée

A full salon-style lamb trim on Brulee, a 2 year old Standard Poodle.

This tutorial walks through a practical pet lamb trim using a #3¾F blade on the body, a 22 mm attachment comb on the legs, classic poodle points on a #10, and a fully hand-scissored top knot and bevel.

It’s a balanced, owner-friendly trim that keeps structure and style without overcomplicating maintenance.

This tutorial is also available as a fastForward

Part 1 Body Clip and Lamb Outline

#3¾F body, clean neck, and pet-friendly shaping

In this section:

  • Using a #3¾F blade for an all-year, wearable length

  • Skimming from withers through rib cage for a smooth finish

  • Tightening the rear muscle for hygiene and outline

  • Creating a gentle neck slope without leaving a heavy crest

  • Cleaning chest and blending into the front assembly

  • Debulking legs with a 22 mm attachment comb before scissoring

The focus here is efficiency. The more shaping you achieve with your blade and comb, the cleaner and faster your scissor work becomes.

Part 2 Front Legs and Bevel

Setting structure before texture

This section covers:

  • Setting the bevel line just below the poodle foot

  • Creating a clean transition between shaved foot and leg

  • Building straight, parallel leg lines

  • Keeping hair tight between carpal pad and foot for hygiene

  • Using chunkers to soften and refine shape

  • Maintaining lift so the leg sits up off the ground

The goal is a neat column with subtle flare, not exaggerated show volume.

Part 3 Rear Legs, Hock Shape, and Tail Set

Balance, blend, and practical finishing

In this section:

  • Setting a clean rear bevel

  • Blending hock hair while keeping structure

  • Maintaining hygiene between the back legs without over-lowering

  • Softening transitions with curves and chunkers

  • Creating a simple salon tail band

  • Trimming the tail safely with awareness of the tailbone

This is a pet trim approach. It keeps character and shape without demanding show-level maintenance.

Part 4 Top Knot and Ears

Salon top knot with smooth neck transition

This section includes:

  • Clearing eyes at a 45° angle for visibility and hygiene

  • Aligning top knot with ear set and eye position

  • Building shape without creating an “egg” profile

  • Blending top knot into neck clipper work

  • Using chunkers to soften and balance symmetry

  • Tipping ears cleanly while respecting ear leather length

The aim is a rounded, balanced top knot that flows naturally into the neckline.

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