Popular Yorkie Haircut Styles

Your lifestyle matters more than aesthetics when choosing a Yorkie haircut. Be honest about how much grooming time you'll commit to.

Puppy Cut (Most Popular)

• Body trimmed to 1-2 inches all over
• Face rounded and short
• Ears trimmed to tips
• Maintenance: Moderate — still needs daily brushing, professional grooming every 6-8 weeks
• Best for: Active owners, families, Yorkies who play outdoors

Teddy Bear Cut

• Similar to puppy cut but face is left fuller and rounder
• Body 1.5-2 inches
• Creates an adorable stuffed-animal look
• Maintenance: Moderate to high — face needs regular trimming to keep shape
• Best for: Owners who want the cute factor without show-length commitment

Show Cut (Full Coat)

• Hair grows to floor length, parted down the middle
• Topknot with bow
• The classic Yorkie look you see at dog shows
• Maintenance: Very high — daily brushing, wrapping, frequent baths
• Best for: Show dogs or owners who genuinely enjoy grooming as a hobby

Schnauzer Cut

• Short body, longer hair on legs and face
• Distinct beard and eyebrows
• Very clean, distinguished look
• Maintenance: Low to moderate
• Best for: Owners who want a unique, low-maintenance style

The Honest Take:
If you're not sure, start with a puppy cut. It's flattering on every Yorkie, easy to maintain, and grows out well if you want to try something different later. Most Yorkie owners settle on the puppy cut after trying fancier styles.

Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks is standard, but you'll need to maintain the look between visits.

Between-Visit Maintenance:

• Daily brushing (always)
• Face trimming every 2-3 weeks (around eyes for visibility, beard for cleanliness)
• Paw pad trimming every 2-3 weeks
• Sanitary area trimming as needed
• Nail trimming every 2-3 weeks
• Ear hair plucking (if recommended by your groomer — opinions vary)

Finding a Good Groomer:

• Ask specifically about toy breed experience
• Visit the facility first (is it clean? How do they handle small dogs?)
• Ask about their drying process (cage dryers on high heat are dangerous for small dogs)
• A good Yorkie groomer will ask about YOUR maintenance routine before suggesting a cut
• Expect to pay $50-80+ for a full Yorkie grooming session

Red Flags:

• "We can fit your dog in without an appointment" (rushed grooming = nicks and stress)
• Unwillingness to let you see the grooming area
• Using a neck noose without a belly band for safety
• Your Yorkie comes home extremely stressed or fearful