The Doodle Coat Dilemma
Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Bernedoodles, Aussiedoodles—Gilbert is full of doodles, and we love them. But their beautiful, curly coats come with a catch: they mat. Fast.
Doodle coats are a mix of poodle curls and retriever or other breed fur. This combination creates a texture that tangles easily, traps debris, and mats close to the skin if not maintained regularly.
Why Matting Is More Than a Cosmetic Issue
Mats aren't just unsightly—they're painful. Severely matted fur:
- Pulls on the skin with every movement
- Traps moisture against the skin, leading to hot spots and infections
- Hides parasites like fleas and ticks
- Restricts blood flow in extreme cases
- Makes grooming painful — removing heavy mats requires shaving, which many owners don't expect
The At-Home Brushing Routine
Tools You Need
- Slicker brush — Your primary tool for doodle coats
- Metal greyhound comb — For checking your work (if the comb glides through, you're mat-free)
- Detangling spray — Makes brushing easier and less painful
The Technique: Line Brushing
Line brushing is the professional method for thoroughly brushing a doodle coat:
- Part the fur in small sections, working from the bottom up
- Brush each section from root to tip with the slicker brush
- Follow with the comb to check for hidden tangles
- Work systematically — don't just brush the surface
How Often?
- Ideally: every other day for wavy/curly doodles
- Minimum: 3 times per week
- Daily during monsoon season or after swimming
Problem Areas
Focus extra attention on:
- Behind the ears — The #1 matting spot
- Under the collar — Friction creates tangles
- Armpits — Movement causes friction mats
- Between the toes — Debris collects here
- Around the tail and rear — Often neglected
Between-Groom Maintenance Tips
Keep Them Dry
Wet doodle fur that isn't properly dried and brushed will mat almost immediately. After baths, pool time, or monsoon rain:
- Towel dry thoroughly (pat, don't rub)
- Blow dry on low heat
- Brush while drying
Consider a Maintenance Trim
Between full grooms, you can trim:
- Around the eyes (for visibility)
- Paw pads (to prevent slipping)
- Sanitary areas (for hygiene)
Use the Right Shampoo
Moisturizing, detangling shampoos help prevent knots. Avoid human shampoo—the pH is wrong for dogs.
When to See the Groomer
Even with great at-home care, doodles need professional grooming every 4–6 weeks. We can:
- Do a thorough de-mat (if caught early)
- Trim to a manageable length
- Clean ears (doodles are prone to ear infections)
- Address any problem areas
The Matting Conversation
If your doodle arrives severely matted, your groomer may need to shave down to the skin. This isn't punishment—it's the humane option. Trying to brush out severe mats is painful and stressful for your dog.
The good news: hair grows back! And with a consistent brushing routine, you can maintain whatever length you love.
Need a doodle groom or de-mat session? Book with us—we're doodle experts!