How to groom your Doodle at home.

Written By Jennifer Eberhard

Fluffy, fabulous, and full of mischief—Doodles are undeniably adorable. But let’s be real: keeping that cloud-like coat in check is not for the faint of heart. Whether you’ve got a Cavapoo, Goldendoodle, or Bernedoodle, regular grooming is essential for their health and your sanity (hello, matting nightmares).

The good news? You can groom your Doodle at home—and make it feel like a spa day instead of a wrestling match in a bubble bath. Here's how to do it like a pro, without calling in reinforcements or bribing your pup with 32 peanut butter treats (okay, maybe just two).

🧼 Step 1: Brush Before You Bathe

Rule #1 of Doodle grooming: never bathe a tangled pup. Wet mats are basically cement.

What You’ll Need:

  • 🪮 Slicker Brush: Our favorite brush – Gets deep without hurting.

  • 🐾 Metal Comb: Steel Comb – perfect for line brushing catching sneaky knots behind ears and under legs.

  • 🪮 Detail Comb: This metal detail comb is an ABSOLUTE MUST for getting rid of eye crusts. Bonus, it can also help remove small mats.

  • 🧴 Detangling Spray: Detangler – makes brushing smoother and drama-free. If you have a mat (or 2 or 3….we have all been there, it happen), don’t worry! Remain calm and use this dematting comb. Be gentle and cautious, take your time.

Pro Tip: Use the “line brushing” method—lift a layer of fur and brush section by section from the skin outward. Yes, it takes time. Yes, it’s worth it.

🚿 Step 2: Bath Time Bliss (or Chaos)

Doodles don’t shed, but they do trap everything—from mud to mystery crumbs—in their curls. A proper wash will leave them smelling like a dream instead of last Tuesday's puddle.

What You’ll Need:

  • 🧴 Shampoo: Body Shampoo & Face Shampoo – gentle, tearless, and safe for sensitive skin. Your doodle will smell AMAZING!

  • 🌿 Conditioner: Leave-In Conditioner – locks in moisture and detangles. Bonus, extra soft and shiny cuddly coat.

  • 🛁 Ear Cleaning Solution: Solution for clear, dry, and deodorized dog ears after baths. A doodle must!

Pro Tip: Use lukewarm water and a silicone scrubber to get through the coat. Rinse until the water runs clear—then rinse again. Doodles are sneakily sudsy. If you have a wiggly pup or escape artist in the bathtub like us, this grooming leash is a game changer! You can attach it to the side of your tub or shower during the bath, and then stick it to your floor while drying. Trust me, this will save you a lot of time!

💨 Step 3: Dry Like a Grooming Guru

Air-drying a Doodle = disaster. It causes curls to tighten and mats to form. Blow drying is non-negotiable.

What You’ll Need:

  • 💨 High-Velocity Dog Dryer: High-Velocity Dryer – powerful enough to dry the fluff without overheating. Trust me, we have tried every dryer out there. This is the best dryer for a doodle’s at home spa day.

  • 👓 Ear Muffs: Not joking. The high velocity dryer can be a little loud, put these on your pup’s ears and they will thank you. Bonus, they help dry their ears faster!

Pro Tip: Dry while brushing. Use your slicker brush in the direction of hair growth as you dry—this keeps the coat fluffy and prevents matting.

✂️ Step 4: Tidy Trim Time

Unless you’re going full groomer mode (brave!), just focus on a simple maintenance trim.

What You’ll Need:

  • ✂️ Rounded-Tip Grooming Scissors: Grooming Shears – be very careful and use the utmost caution. You know your pup best.

  • 🐾 Dog Clippers: Cord-Free Clippers. Cord free is a must and will make your life so much easier. We have tried less expensive options and they don’t hold up to a Doodle’s coat. Save yourself money in the long run by buying these the first time.

Trim Targets:

  • Around the eyes (so they can see their snacks).

  • The paw pads (bye dirt clumps).

  • The sanitary area (you know why).

  • The tail and ears—just a gentle tidy.

🐶 Final Tips from One Doodle Parent to Another

  • Start young. Make grooming a routine, not a rare event.

  • Stay positive—treats, praise, and play breaks help!

  • If you’re overwhelmed, call in a pro for the big jobs (like a full haircut). But even doing the basics at home will save you money and keep your pup comfy between grooms.

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Jennifer Eberhard