In today's fast-paced world, not every pet parent has hours to spend brushing, detangling, or grooming their furry friend. But that doesn’t mean your dog or cat has to look shaggy or feel uncomfortable. With the right low-maintenance haircut, your pet can stay clean, cute, and comfortable—all while saving you time and effort.

Whether you have a fluffy dog, a long-haired cat, or a curly-coated pup, this guide will walk you through the best low-maintenance pet haircuts that work great for your lifestyle.

Why Choose a Low-Maintenance Pet Haircut?

Not all pet haircuts require weekly upkeep. Some styles are designed to reduce:

Shedding and tangles
Bathing and brushing frequency
Trips to the groomer
Dirt and mat build-up

If you’re juggling work, kids, or simply have a packed schedule, low-maintenance grooming can help you keep your pet comfortable without the constant hassle.

Best Low-Maintenance Haircuts for Dogs

1. The Puppy Cut

One of the most popular low-maintenance styles, the puppy cut keeps the coat short (usually 1–2 inches) all over the body.

Best for: Shih Tzus, Poodles, Maltese, and mixed breeds
Maintenance: Brush once or twice a week; groom every 6–8 weeks

This cute and functional cut prevents mats and makes brushing a breeze.

2. The Kennel Cut

Often used by professional groomers, the kennel cut features a very short body with slightly longer hair left on the ears and tail.

Best for: Schnauzers, Poodles, and Bichons
Maintenance: Brush weekly; grooming needed every 8–10 weeks

It’s ideal for summer and helps keep your dog clean with less work.

3. Short Double-Coat Trim (Not Shaving)

For double-coated breeds like Golden Retrievers or Huskies, shaving is not recommended. But a light trim around the chest, legs, and tail can reduce shedding and tangles.

Best for: Golden Retrievers, Australian Shepherds, Collies
Maintenance: Brush 1–2 times weekly

This keeps the natural coat intact while making it more manageable.

4. Teddy Bear Cut

A slightly longer version of the puppy cut, the teddy bear cut keeps the face rounded and adorable while trimming the body short.

Best for: Doodles, Yorkies, and small fluffy breeds
Maintenance: Brushing every few days; grooming every 6–8 weeks

It’s stylish, functional, and perfect for busy pet parents who still want their dog looking Instagram-ready.

Best Low-Maintenance Haircuts for Cats

Cats generally groom themselves, but long-haired or thick-coated breeds benefit from occasional trimming to reduce mats and shedding.

1. The Lion Cut

This bold style removes most of the cat’s body fur, leaving only the mane, tail tip, and sometimes leg cuffs.

Best for: Persians, Maine Coons, Ragdolls
Maintenance: Brushing once a week; grooming every 8–12 weeks

It keeps cats cool, mat-free, and less likely to leave hair everywhere.

2. The Comb Cut

Also known as the “teddy cut,” this keeps the coat short but not shaved—typically around ½ inch long.

Best for: Long-haired and exotic cats
Maintenance: Brush weekly; groom every 6–10 weeks

It’s a happy medium between full coat and lion cut, offering reduced shedding with a soft, fluffy look.

3. Sanitary Trim

A basic but helpful trim around the hindquarters and belly to prevent fecal build-up and keep things clean.

Best for: All long-haired cats
Maintenance: As needed (every 1–2 months)

Pair this with regular brushing for a low-maintenance but hygienic cat.

Tips to Make Grooming Even Easier

Even with low-maintenance haircuts, a bit of routine care will go a long way. Here are a few quick tips:

Use dry shampoo or grooming wipes to keep your pet fresh between baths.
Invest in a quality brush suited to your pet’s coat type.
Create a calm grooming space to make sessions faster and stress-free.
Stick to a schedule so your pet doesn’t develop mats or overgrown nails.
Use treats and praise to make grooming a positive experience.

When to See a Professional Groomer

If your pet’s coat is matted, shedding excessively, or just looking rough, a visit to a professional groomer can reset things. After a professional trim, it's much easier to maintain a low-effort grooming routine at home.

Pro groomers can also spot skin issues, fleas, or allergies that you might miss, helping you keep your pet healthy as well as stylish.

Final Thoughts

Life gets busy, but your pet’s grooming needs don’t have to be overwhelming. By choosing the right low-maintenance haircut—whether it’s a puppy cut for your dog or a lion cut for your cat—you’ll save time, reduce stress, and keep your pet looking and feeling their best.

With a little planning and the right cut, even the busiest pet parent can stay on top of grooming like a pro.

Low-Maintenance Haircuts for Busy Pet Parents