While most people are familiar with the traditional look of a poodle with a well-groomed coat and shaved face and feet, another type of poodle that is less well-known: is the corded poodle.

What Is a Corded Poodle?

A corded poodle is a poodle with a coat that has been intentionally left to form cords or dreadlocks. This is achieved by separating the hairs of the coat into sections and then twisting and knotting them together. Over time, these cords will become thicker and more tightly wound, creating a unique and distinctive look for the dog.

Are Poodles Born Corded?

No, poodles are not born corded. Instead, the cords are formed by matting and twisting the hair. This is done by separating the hair into sections, then backcombing and twisting each section until it forms a cord. As the corded coat grows, it must be maintained to prevent matting and tangling.

Corded Coat Poodle

Corded coat poodles have a unique and striking appearance. Their coats comprise thick, tightly wound cords ranging from a few inches to several feet. The cords can be left to hang loose or trimmed to a more manageable length. The cords are also highly durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear, making corded poodles an excellent choice for active families.

Can a Regular Coat Be Corded?

While most corded poodles have a specific type of coat that lends itself to forming cords, it is possible to cord a regular coat as well. However, this process can be more challenging, as the hair may naturally twist and mat differently. It is also important to note that cording a regular coat may not result in the same tight, uniform cords as a poodle with a naturally corded coat.

How to Cord a Poodle

Cording a poodle is a process that involves allowing the fur to grow out into long, thin cords. Unlike traditional poodle grooming, which requires regular haircuts and brushing, cording involves minimal trimming and much patience.

The process can take six months to two years, depending on how quickly your poodle’s fur grows and how long you want the cords to be. Before you start cording your poodle, it’s essential to understand the basic steps involved:

Step 1: Grow Out the Fur

The first step in cording a poodle is to grow out their fur. This means avoiding haircuts and brushing their fur as little as possible. As the fur grows, it will begin to form naturally into cords. Keeping your poodle clean and well-groomed during this time is essential, as mats or tangles can hinder cord formation.

Step 2: Separate the Cords

As the cords begin to form, you must separate them by hand. This involves gently pulling apart the cords to prevent them from matting together. You’ll need to do this regularly, ideally every day or every other day, to ensure the cords stay separate and grow properly.

Step 3: Maintain the Cords

Once the cords are fully formed, you must maintain them to keep them looking their best. This involves trimming the ends of the cords to prevent them from becoming too heavy and weighing your poodle down. You may also need to trim any cords growing too thick or becoming tangled.

How to Bathe a Corded Poodle

Bathing a corded poodle is a unique experience compared to other dog breeds. Corded poodles have a unique coat type that requires special care, especially during bathing. This section will cover everything you need to know about how to bathe a corded poodle.

Step 1: Prepare Your Supplies

Before bathing your corded poodle, ensure you have all the necessary supplies. You will need a good quality dog shampoo, a conditioner, a detangler, a slicker brush, and a blow dryer. It’s essential to choose a dog shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for corded poodles, as these products are designed to help maintain the integrity of the coat.

Step 2: Brush Your Poodle’s Coat

Before bathing, it’s essential to brush your poodle’s coat thoroughly to remove any tangles or mats. Use a slicker brush and work through the coat in sections. Be gentle but firm, as corded poodles have delicate hair that can easily break.

Step 3: Wet Your Poodle’s Coat

Once your poodle’s coat is brushed, it’s time to wet the coat. Use lukewarm water and make sure to saturate the entire coat thoroughly. Be careful not to get water in your poodle’s eyes or ears, which can cause discomfort.

Step 4: Apply Shampoo

After your poodle’s coat is wet, it’s time to apply shampoo. Pour a small shampoo into your hands and work it into a lather. Apply the lather to your poodle’s coat, working it in gently to ensure it reaches every part of the coat. Be careful not to scrub too hard, which can damage the coat.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

Once you have shampooed your poodle’s coat, it’s time to rinse it thoroughly. Ensure to rinse the coat completely, as leftover shampoo can cause irritation or dryness. Rinse until the water runs clear and there are no suds left.

Step 6: Apply Conditioner

After rinsing, it’s time to apply the conditioner. Apply a small amount of conditioner to your poodle’s coat, working it in gently. Leave the conditioner on for a few minutes, allowing it to penetrate the coat and provide nourishment.

Step 7: Rinse Again

Once the conditioner has been applied, it’s time to rinse it out. Ensure to rinse thoroughly, as leftover conditioner can weigh down the coat and cause mats or tangles.

Step 8: Apply Detangler

After rinsing, applying a detangler to your poodle’s coat is a good idea. This will help prevent tangles and make the coat easier to manage. Apply a small detangler to your hands and work it into the coat, focusing on any areas prone to tangles.

Step 9: Blow Dry

Once your poodle’s coat is detangled, it’s time to blow dry. Use a low heat setting and a high-velocity dryer to dry the coat. Dry the coat thoroughly, as wet hair can cause mats and tangles.

Step 10: Style

Once your poodle’s coat is dry, it’s time to style it. Corded poodles have a unique coat that can be styled in many ways, from a classic corded look to a more modern trim. Use scissors and clippers to trim excess hair or shape the coat to your desired style.

Misconceptions About Corded Poodles

Many misconceptions about poodle dogs need to be cleared up. Below, we will debunk some common misconceptions about corded poodles.

Misconception #1: Corded Poodles are Hypoallergenic

While it is true that Poodles are often considered hypoallergenic, this does not necessarily apply to corded Poodles. The cords can trap allergens, such as dust and pollen, making them less hypoallergenic than other Poodle varieties.

Misconception #2: Corded Poodles are High-Maintenance

It is commonly believed that corded Poodles require a lot of grooming and maintenance. While it is true that their coat requires regular attention to prevent matting, corded Poodles are not necessarily more high-maintenance than other breeds. With proper grooming, corded Poodles can look beautiful and healthy without too much effort.

Misconception #3: Corded Poodles are Aggressive

Some people believe that corded Poodles are aggressive and difficult to train. However, this is not true. Corded Poodles are intelligent, affectionate, and eager to please their owners. With proper training and socialization, they can make wonderful family pets.

Misconception #4: Corded Poodles are Rare

While corded Poodles may not be as common as other Poodle varieties, they are not necessarily rare. Many breeders specialize in corded Poodles, and they can often be found through online searches or referrals.