The Wonderful World of Doodles and How Do You Maintain Them?
Doodles are some of the most popular mixed breeds today, combining the intelligence and low-shedding coat of a Poodle with the personality of another beloved breed. But while they’re cute and cuddly, their coats require serious maintenance to keep them healthy, mat-free, and looking their best.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common Doodle breeds and how to properly care for each one.
🐾 1. Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever + Poodle)
Coat Type: Wavy to curly, thick, and plush.
Grooming Tip: Brush 3–4 times a week, focusing around the ears and legs where mats love to form. Schedule full grooms every 4-6 weeks and keep the sanitary and eye areas tidy between appointments.
🐾 2. Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever + Poodle)
Coat Type: Can range from straight to very curly.
Grooming Tip: Use a slicker brush and metal comb regularly, paying special attention to the underarms and tail base, both are common matting spots. Since this version sheds quite a bit, bathing and trimming every 4-6 weeks helps keep their coat manageable.
🐾 3. Bernedoodle (Bernese Mountain Dog + Poodle)
Coat Type: Thick, soft, and curly.
Grooming Tip: Brush daily if possible. Their long curls can tangle quickly. Keeping the coat shorter makes maintenance easier. Clean their ears often to prevent moisture buildup and infections. Professional grooms every 4-6 weeks is ideal.
🐾 4. Aussiedoodle (Australian Shepherd + Poodle)
Coat Type: Soft, fluffy, and wavy to curly.
Grooming Tip: These high-energy pups need regular brushing, especially around the neck, chest and backend. Schedule professional grooms every 4-6 weeks to keep their coat tangle-free and easy to manage.
🐾 5. Sheepadoodle (Old English Sheepdog + Poodle)
Coat Type: Dense, curly, and full of volume.
Grooming Tip: Brush several times a week and plan on professional grooming every 4–6 weeks. A shorter cut can help reduce tangles and keep your pup comfortable year-round.
🐾 6. Schnoodle (Schnauzer + Poodle)
Coat Type: Can vary from wiry to soft curls depending on the mix.
Grooming Tip: Brush regularly and schedule professional grooms every 4-6 weeks. You can go for a classic “Schnauzer-style” trim or opt for a round, teddy-bear look.
🐾 7. Irish Doodle (Irish Setter + Poodle)
Coat Type: Long, soft, and wavy.
Grooming Tip: Brush a few times a week and trim every 4-6 weeks. Keep ears clean and dry to prevent irritation.
✂️ General Doodle Grooming Tips
No matter which type of Doodle you have, consistency is key. These coats are beautiful but can mat fast if not properly cared for.
Brush often! Use a slicker brush and metal comb to reach all the way down to the skin. Hidden mats can easily go unnoticed.
Don’t skip professional grooms. Every 4-6 weeks keeps their coat healthy and prevents matting.
Stay consistent. Once-a-week brushing isn’t enough for these curly coats. Daily or every-other-day brushing is ideal.
Detangle before bathing. It’s not ideal to bathe over mats, water tightens them and makes them worse.
🐶 Doodle Grooming Made Easier
Having the right tools makes all the difference when it comes to maintaining your Doodle’s coat. From brushes and combs to shampoos and dryers, the right gear helps keep your pup’s coat healthy and your grooming routine stress-free.
👉 Check out Ciara’s list of favorite grooming tools for all Doodle coat types here:
Ciara’s Grooming Favorites
