Doodle Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your Doodle Happy, Healthy, and Handsome

Doodles — whether Goldendoodles, Cavapoos, Bernedoodles, or other Poodle mixes — are adored for their charming personalities, loving natures, and hypoallergenic, curly coats. But with that beautiful coat and bubbly personality comes a unique set of grooming and care needs. If you’re lucky enough to call a Doodle your own, here’s everything you need to know about maintaining their health, coat, and happiness.

Understanding the Doodle Coat

Doodles inherit a range of coat types from their Poodle and non-Poodle parent breeds. Some have wavy fleece coats, others tight curls, and some a straighter “hair” coat. Most Doodles fall somewhere between, with coats that are soft, fluffy, and prone to matting without proper care.

Regular grooming is essential to prevent tangles and mats, which can be painful and lead to skin infections. The key is consistency. A Doodle’s coat can’t be neglected and then magically fixed with one brushing — it requires ongoing maintenance.

Brushing: Your #1 Grooming Habit

To keep your Doodle’s coat in top shape:

• Brush 3–4 times per week using a slicker brush and a metal comb. Focus on areas prone to tangling, like behind the ears, under the collar, around the legs, and near the tail.

• Always brush down to the skin, not just the surface. Mats often form at the roots and go unnoticed until they’ve grown severe.

• Use a detangling spray or conditioner if needed. Never try to yank out a mat — this can hurt your pup and damage the coat.

• If your Doodle resists brushing, make it a positive experience with treats and praise. Gentle training pays off in the long run.

Professional Grooming: More Than Just a Haircut

Your Doodle will need to see a professional groomer every 6–8 weeks. This visit typically includes:

• A full body trim or haircut tailored to your Doodle’s lifestyle (shorter for active dogs, longer if you prefer a fluffy look).

• Nail trimming, ear cleaning, and gland expression.

• A bath and blowout, which help maintain the coat’s health and softness.

Find a groomer experienced with Doodles and communicate your preferences clearly. Bringing a photo of your desired cut can be helpful.

Bathing at Home

You don’t need to bathe your Doodle weekly (unless they roll in something questionable), but every 4–6 weeks is a good routine in between grooming appointments.

• Use a gentle, dog-safe shampoo — no human products!

• Dry your Doodle thoroughly after a bath, especially if they have a dense coat. Damp fur is a breeding ground for bacteria.

• Brush before and after the bath to prevent matting.

Ear, Eye, and Dental Care

Doodles can be prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears. Check their ears weekly and clean them with a vet-recommended solution if needed. Watch for signs of irritation like redness, odor, or excessive scratching.

Their expressive eyes may also need wiping with a damp cloth to prevent tear stains. Be gentle and consistent.

Dental hygiene is often overlooked but extremely important. Brush your Doodle’s teeth several times a week (ideally daily) and provide dental chews or vet-approved products to reduce plaque.

Nail Trimming and Paw Care

Active Doodles who run on rough surfaces may naturally wear down their nails, but most still need trims every 3–4 weeks. Long nails can cause discomfort and joint issues over time.

Keep an eye on your pup’s paw pads — especially in hot or icy conditions. Use a balm if their paws get cracked, and trim any long fur between their toes to prevent debris from collecting.

Exercise and Mental Stimulation

While Doodle coats need care, so do their energetic minds and bodies! Most Doodles are active and intelligent — they thrive on regular walks, playtime, and training.

• Aim for at least 30–60 minutes of exercise daily.

• Provide puzzle toys, training games, and new challenges to keep their minds sharp.

• Socialize your Doodle early and often. They’re generally friendly but benefit from exposure to different people, pets, and environments.

Nutrition and Skin Health

A high-quality, balanced diet supports a shiny coat and healthy skin. Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oil supplements) can reduce shedding and promote coat softness.

Always provide plenty of fresh water and monitor for signs of allergies, like excessive scratching or licking. Some Doodles are sensitive to certain ingredients, so don’t hesitate to ask your vet about trying a limited-ingredient or grain-free diet if issues arise.

Final Thoughts

Caring for a Doodle takes time, patience, and a commitment to routine — but the reward is a healthy, happy, and snuggly companion who looks as good as they feel. At Bailey Mountain Doodles, we emphasize the importance of early grooming exposure and regular care, setting our puppies up for a lifetime of comfort and confidence. Our pups are introduced to brushing, nail handling, and bathing from a young age, making life easier for you and your future groomer.

With the right tools, knowledge, and love, you can enjoy every minute of life with your fluffy, lovable Doodle — and keep them looking adorable every step of the way. 🐾

Learn more about our grooming tips and healthy puppy practices at:🌐 www.baileymountaindoodles.com📸 Instagram: @baileymountaindoodles📍 Travelers Rest, SC – Raising healthy, happy, and social Doodles since 2018!