Quick Answer:
FFF stands for "Fluffy Full Face" in dog grooming. It's a style where the face is left fuller and rounder rather than trimmed close to the skin. This creates a soft, teddy bear-like appearance popular with Poodles, Bichons, and Doodle breeds.
What Does FFF Mean in Dog Grooming?
FFF stands for "Fluffy Full Face" — a popular grooming style where the facial hair is left longer and fuller instead of being trimmed close. The result is a soft, rounded, teddy bear-like face.
This style is particularly popular for:
- Poodles (all sizes)
- Goldendoodles and Labradoodles
- Bichon Frises
- Shih Tzus
- Maltese
- Cocker Spaniels
When booking a grooming appointment, you might say "I'd like a puppy cut with FFF" meaning a uniform body length with a fluffy, full face.
Common Dog Grooming Cut Styles
🐻 Teddy Bear Cut
Face is rounded and fluffy like a stuffed animal. Body trimmed to 1-2 inches. Very popular for Doodles and Shih Tzus.
🐶 Puppy Cut
Entire coat trimmed to one uniform length (usually 1-2 inches). Low maintenance and works for most breeds.
🦁 Lion Cut
Body shaved short, mane of fur left around head and chest. Tail has a pom-pom at the end. Common for Pomeranians.
✂️ Breed Cut
Traditional style specific to the breed (e.g., Poodle continental, Schnauzer cut, Cocker cut).
🏠 Kennel Cut
Very short all over (usually #7 blade). Easy maintenance cut, good for summer or matted dogs.
🧸 Lamb Cut
Legs left fluffy, body trimmed shorter. Creates a "lamb" silhouette. Popular for Poodles.
Understanding Blade Lengths
Groomers use numbered clipper blades. Higher numbers = shorter cuts. Here's what each blade leaves:
| Blade # | Hair Length | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| #3 | 1/2 inch (13mm) | Fluffy puppy cuts |
| #4 | 3/8 inch (9.5mm) | Standard puppy cut |
| #5 | 1/4 inch (6mm) | Shorter summer cut |
| #7 | 1/8 inch (3mm) | Kennel cut, body work |
| #10 | 1/16 inch (1.5mm) | Sanitary areas, paw pads |
Essential Dog Grooming Terms Glossary
Sanitary Trim (Sani)
Trimming hair around private areas, belly, and rear end for cleanliness.
Hand Stripping
Pulling dead hair by hand instead of clipping. Required for wire-coated breeds like Terriers.
De-shedding
Removing loose undercoat with special tools. Great for heavy shedders like Huskies and Labs.
Dematting
Working out tangles and mats. Can be time-consuming and may cost extra.
Clean Face
Face shaved close (opposite of FFF). Traditional for Poodles.
Top Knot
Long hair on top of the head, often tied with a bow. Common for Shih Tzus and Yorkies.
Scissor Finish
Hand-scissoring for a more natural, blended look (vs. clipper-only).
Express/Walk-In Service
Quick services like nail trim or ear cleaning without full grooming appointment.
Breed-Specific Grooming Terms
Poodle Terms
- • Continental: Show cut with shaved hindquarters, poms
- • English Saddle: Similar but with more leg hair
- • Miami/Bikini: Shaved feet, face, tail base
- • Sporting: Even length all over, practical cut
Schnauzer Terms
- • Schnauzer Cut: Stripped body, leg furnishings
- • Eyebrows: Long hair over eyes
- • Beard: Long facial hair
- • Skirt: Longer hair on belly/sides
Ready to book a grooming appointment?
Now that you know the lingo, find a groomer who speaks your language!
Find Groomers Near Me →Pro Tips for Communicating with Your Groomer
- Bring photos: A picture is worth a thousand words. Show exactly what you want.
- Use blade numbers: Instead of "short," say "#5 blade" for precision.
- Specify face style: "FFF" or "clean face" - be clear about facial hair.
- Mention problem areas: Tell them about mats, sensitive spots, or behavior issues.
- Ask questions: Good groomers are happy to explain options.