Keeping Your Doodle Clean and Healthy: Expert Grooming Advice

Half of the 10 most popular mixed breed dogs in American homes are part poodle, with Goldendoodles rapidly rising in popularity. Poodle mixes of all varieties are also the most frequent dogs seen by most professional groomers as they have more need for ongoing grooming maintenance.

Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

Elizabeth Toc, co-owner of the Tailored Tail, says because of their poodle genetics they have particularly shaggy hair, which often leads to tangles and matted hair. This creates an ongoing need to keep these doodles professionally trimmed and clean. While doodle owners can keep up with brushing and bathing, it can quickly become overwhelming. If you are a doodle owner, you should invest your time to keep your dog properly groomed or your money for professional grooming services. A professional groomer is experienced in handling the well-known shaggy coat of poodle- mixed dogs and can be sure your dog gets the proper maintenance it needs head-to-tail.

Here are the Top 3 reasons doodle owners should bring their dogs to a professional groomer:

1. Doodles have lots of hair, and that hair tends to tangle and get matted, which can be unhealthy for your pooch.

2. According to the AKC, doodles tend to grow hair in their ears, and since their floppy ears are prone to developing wax, it’s important to have the groomer pluck and trim the hair inside their ears.

3. Doodles have sensitive skin. A professional groomer’s shampoo products and trimming techniques are essential to be sure the skin is cared for properly. They can also spot any change in skin condition over time.

Elizabeth says doodles should be groomed every 4-6 weeks for proper maintenance of their unique coats. Here are the top three doodle cuts Elizabeth recommends:

1. Teddy bear/ puppy cut: left fluffier all around, especially longer on face

2. Kennel cut/summer cut: basically shaven

3. Lamb cut: shorter hair on body, longer on legs

Elizabeth says no matter the cut, it is important for the dog owner to discuss in detail the style of cut when dropping off the dog. Talking to your groomer, discussing details and finding pictures all help with the desired look.

“There are many variations of styles with doodles so it is important that these details are discussed before the haircut,” she said. “The dog is going to look adorable regardless, but we want to be sure the owner and dog are happy when they leave.”