A Practical Guide for Keeping Their Coats Healthy and Beautiful
Poodles and Doodles are known for their intelligence, charm, and adorable curly or wavy coats. But beneath those picture-perfect curls lies a very real responsibility: consistent grooming. Whether you’ve recently brought home one of these popular breeds or are considering it, knowing how much grooming they require is essential to keeping them happy, healthy, and mat-free.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about their grooming needs—and how to stay ahead of the tangle game.
Why Grooming Matters So Much for These Breeds
Poodles and Doodles have hair, not fur. That means their coats are more like human hair: it grows continuously, doesn’t shed much, and is prone to matting if not properly maintained. This is especially true for Doodles, whose coats can vary widely depending on whether they’re more like a Poodle or the other parent breed (like a Golden Retriever, Labrador, or Bernese Mountain Dog).
Without consistent grooming:
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Mats can form close to the skin, causing discomfort and even skin infections.
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Dirt, debris, and allergens can get trapped in the dense coat.
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A neglected coat may require shaving, even if you prefer a longer style.
Daily or Near-Daily Brushing
Brushing is non-negotiable. Use a slicker brush and a metal comb to detangle and prevent mats—especially in friction areas like behind the ears, under the collar, armpits, and legs.
Pro tip: If you can’t run a comb through your dog’s coat easily, it’s time to detangle.
For curly coats (like Poodles or F1B Doodles), brushing should happen daily. Wavy or fleece-textured coats may tolerate brushing every other day, but the more often, the better.
Regular Baths and Drying
Bathing your dog helps remove dirt, allergens, and odors—but always dry the coat thoroughly after, especially with curly textures. Wet curls left to air-dry can lead to matting.
Use a gentle, dog-safe shampoo and conditioner, and consider a blow dryer with a cool or warm (never hot) setting to finish the job.
Professional Grooming Every 6–8 Weeks
Unless you’re trained to do full grooms at home, you’ll need a professional groomer on your team.
A full groom includes:
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Hair trimming (according to the style you want)
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Nail trimming
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Ear cleaning
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Sanitary area clipping
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Paw pad trimming
Your groomer can also advise you on coat condition, mat risks, and ideal styles based on your dog’s activity level and environment.
Other Grooming Musts
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Nail trimming: Overgrown nails can affect posture and joint health. Use a grinder or clipper every 3–4 weeks.
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Ear cleaning: Floppy ears can trap moisture. Clean weekly with a dog-safe ear cleaner.
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Teeth brushing: Dental hygiene prevents tartar, bad breath, and more serious issues. Aim for 2–3 times a week.
Make Grooming a Bonding Experience
Start handling your puppy early to get them used to brushes, clippers, dryers, and ear checks. Make it fun and rewarding with treats, praise, and patience. Grooming can be a source of stress or connection—you get to choose!
Poodles and Doodles are undeniably adorable, but their grooming needs are not low-maintenance. Plan for a consistent at-home routine plus professional grooming visits every couple of months. The good news? With regular care, your dog will not only look amazing—they’ll also feel great, stay healthy, and avoid unnecessary stress from matting or discomfort.
If you're prepared to put in the time (or hire the help), life with a Poodle or Doodle can be endlessly rewarding.