You got a Labradoodle thinking it would be low maintenance, right? Well, you were wrong. Now you’re staring down knots, tangles, and a grooming schedule no one told you about. You’re not the only one. We hear it all the time at Oodle Pups. New Labradoodle owners quickly realise these gorgeous, non-shedding dogs need consistent care to stay comfortable and cute. The coat doesn’t take care of itself, and those curls can turn into mats faster than you’d think (and yes, I’ve had to cut out more than one knot from behind the ears myself). This guide is here to make it easier. You’ll learn how to tell what kind of coat your Labradoodle has, what brushing techniques work, and how to keep things clean and manageable between professional grooms. It will save you time and keep your dog happier.
Let’s get started.
What Type of Coat Does Your Labradoodle Have?
Many pet owners underestimate how much grooming their dog will need. And when it comes to Labradoodles, it all starts with the coat type. Not every Labradoodle is the same, and that’s why some dogs mat faster, shed more, or need constant brushing while others don’t.
If you’re not sure which type your Labradoodle has, here’s how to tell:
- Wool Coat: These coats are dense and curly, almost like a Poodle’s. They don’t shed much, which is great for allergies, but they mat quickly and need near-daily brushing.
I once missed a few days of brushing and found a knot the size of a grape behind my dog’s ear. This coat doesn’t mess around. - Fleece Coat: This one is the most popular. It’s wavy, soft, and easier to manage than wool. Still, mats can form at pressure points like where the collar sits or under the legs.
Think of fleece as a balanced middle ground. It looks great, but still demands regular care to stay that way. - Hair Coat: Hair coats are closer to a Labrador’s, usually straighter, with more shedding. These dogs may not get that signature teddy-bear look, but the grooming is more forgiving. (You might be wondering if the extra shedding makes it easier. In some ways, it does. But hair coats still need attention to avoid tangles and skin issues.)
Many dog owners also find grooming stressful or confusing, especially when behaviours like matting or resistance pop up. This stress often leads to skipped grooming sessions, which can make matters worse, as discussed in this study on pet owner emotions.
Knowing your dog’s coat is your starting point. Once you’ve got that sorted, you’ll know exactly what kind of grooming tools and routine you’ll need. And that’s what we’ll look at next.
Brushing Tips To Prevent Mats
To prevent matting, brush your Labradoodle from the skin out, use the right tools, and give extra attention to problem areas like behind the ears and under the legs.
Brushing might seem like a simple task. But it’s also where many grooming routines break down. Just a few changes can make it easier, more effective, and far less stressful for you and your dog.
Here’s what works when brushing your Labradoodle:
- Brush from the skin outward: Brushing only the surface won’t get the job done. Tangles usually form deep near the skin. The most effective method is line brushing. Part the coat into small sections and brush from the base out using a slicker brush and comb.
- Use quality grooming tools: Cheap brushes tend to bend, snag, or miss knots altogether. A sturdy slicker brush works gently through the curls, and a metal comb finishes the job properly.
- Focus on friction zones: Behind the ears, under the arms, and around the neck are where mats build up fastest. These areas should get extra attention each time you brush. You might have noticed your dog flinching when you reach these spots. That can be a sign of early matting pulling on the skin.
Aim to brush three or four times a week. It only takes a little time to keep your dog’s coat healthy and mat-free. Plus, it makes every professional groom so much easier.
Bathing and Coat Maintenance Between Grooms
Bathe your Labradoodle every four to six weeks using a gentle dog shampoo, dry them fully, and give regular trims in key areas to stop mats before they form.
Bathing your Labradoodle helps them feel good and stay healthy. A well-maintained coat cuts down on matting, keeps their skin in better shape, and makes brushing much easier.
Here’s how to look after your Labradoodle’s coat between grooming appointments:
- Choose the right shampoo: Go for a mild, pH-balanced dog shampoo. Human products can upset your dog’s skin and lead to itching or dryness. Look for something that hydrates the coat and skips harsh ingredients. (I made the mistake of using a “gentle” baby shampoo once. My dog was scratching for days. Never again.)
- Dry the coat properly after a bath: After towel drying, use a blow dryer on a low heat setting while brushing. It is the best way to stop mats before they start and helps the coat feel soft and fluffy.
- Trim areas that tangle easily: Focus on places like under the ears, around the collar, and in the legs, where hair tends to knot up.
- Keep the ears clean and dry: Labradoodle ears can trap moisture and cause infections. Use a dog-safe ear cleaner and always dry the ears gently after baths.
A few seconds with a towel go a long way. It is a small habit that prevents big problems.
You can also check out this bathing guide from dog grooming tips for a helpful breakdown of how and when to wash.
Once this part becomes familiar, it saves you effort down the line. Your dog stays fresher, the coat stays in better condition, and you avoid the hassle of mat removal.
Let’s move on to the common mistakes that most Labradoodle owners fall into, often without realising it.
Avoid These Common Grooming Mistakes
Skipping brushing, using the wrong tools, or leaving too much time between grooms often leads to tight mats and unnecessary stress for both you and your dog.
Grooming can feel a bit overwhelming at first. You brush, book the appointments, follow what you think is the right routine, and still end up being told your Labradoodle needs to be shaved. It’s frustrating, especially when you’re trying.
Here’s what to keep an eye on:
- Brushing too little: Brushing once a week might seem enough when the coat looks fine, but Labradoodles with fleece or curly coats usually need it more often. Three or four quick sessions each week go a long way.
- Using the wrong brush: Brushes designed for short-haired or shedding dogs won’t do much for a Labradoodle. A slicker brush gets through the coat properly, and a sturdy comb helps pick up what the brush missed.
- Waiting too long between grooms: Time flies, and before you know it, it has been ten weeks since the last appointment. By then, the coat may be too thick to manage at home. A grooming visit every six to eight weeks helps keep the coat at a manageable length and stops knots from taking hold.
Finding these little things early helps you stay ahead and avoid grooming stress later. Once you figure out what works for your dog, it all starts to feel a bit more relaxed.
Creating an Effective Grooming Routine
Brush your Labradoodle three to four times a week, bathe them every four to six weeks, and book a groom every six to eight weeks to stay on top of coat care.
Getting into a routine can feel challenging at first, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. A few short brushing sessions each week, a bath once a month or so, and a quick tidy around the eyes and paws every couple of weeks can bring the desired result.
Once you settle into this rhythm, it becomes second nature. Your dog stays clean and comfortable, grooming becomes less of a hassle, and you avoid the stress of last-minute mat problems.
And if you’re looking for more help, tips, or just want to see what other Labradoodle owners are doing, swing by Oodle Pups. You’ll feel right at home.
