Doodle Grooming Guide: Goldendoodle and Labradoodle Coats

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Doodles are crosses between Poodles and Retrievers, and the mix of coat genes means no two dogs are quite the same. Learning your dog's coat type is the key to keeping it healthy. See also the Goldendoodle and the Labradoodle.

Coat types

• Straight or hair coat. Resembles the Retriever, sheds more and mats less.
• Wavy or fleece coat. Soft, loose waves, often the classic doodle look, with low to moderate shedding and a tendency to mat.
• Curly or wool coat. Tight curls like the Poodle, with low shedding but high matting risk.

See how to identify your dog's coat type.

Brushing

• Three to four times a week for most coats, daily for long ones.
• Brush to the skin with a slicker brush, then comb.
• Trouble spots: behind the ears, armpits, groin, collar line and tail.

See how to brush a dog properly and how to prevent dog hair matting.

Puppy coat change

Doodle puppies often change from a soft puppy coat to an adult coat between about six and twelve months. Mats can form quickly, so brush every day during this time.

Bathing and drying

Bathe every four to six weeks. Brush out first, use a gentle shampoo and conditioner and dry thoroughly while brushing. A damp doodle coat mats quickly. See how to dry a dog after a bath.

Haircuts

A shorter clip makes life easier. Popular choices include the teddy bear cut and the puppy cut, around 1 to 2 inches. See how to give a dog a puppy cut at home. Book a groomer every six to eight weeks. See how often should you take your dog to the groomer.

Face, ears and eyes

Keep hair trimmed away from the eyes, and check ears for moisture and wax, since many doodles have floppy ears and hair in the canal. See how to trim the hair around a dog's eyes and grooming routine for floppy-eared dogs.

Mats

Deal with small mats early. See how to remove mats from dog hair. If the coat is badly matted, a clip is the kindest option.

Paws and sanitary areas

Trim paws and the rear regularly. See how to trim hair between dog paw pads and how to do a sanitary trim.

Allergies

Doodles are often marketed as hypoallergenic, but allergens come from dander and saliva as well as hair, and coat type varies. If allergies are a concern, spend time with the dog before committing.

Teeth and nails

Brush teeth and trim nails regularly. See how to brush a dog's teeth and how to trim dog nails safely.

What to expect with a doodle puppy

Your puppy's first coat is rarely the final one. Between six and twelve months the adult coat comes in, and it can be very different in texture and density. Plan for extra brushing and a first professional groom at around four to five months, so your puppy gets used to the process before the coat becomes difficult.

Keeping the coat manageable

Be honest about how much time you have. If you cannot brush several times a week, choose a shorter style from the start. Ask your groomer to tell you if mats are developing, and to adjust the clip length accordingly. Doodles whose coats are kept short from the beginning are usually happier and healthier than those whose mats are discovered late.

The takeaway

Know your doodle's coat, brush to the skin and choose a manageable clip. Doodles are lovable, and they need regular grooming.