Fluffy curls, teddy bear faces, and that goofy doodle charm make Labradoodles hard to resist. But behind those cute looks lies a coat that doesn’t just take care of itself. Since Labradoodles are a mix of Poodles and Labradors, their coats can range from silky fleece to thick curls, each with its own grooming needs.
Skipping a grooming routine may seem harmless at first, but mats, tangles, and ear infections can sneak up quickly, turning cuddle time into a vet visit. Regular brushing, trimming, and cleaning not only keep your pup’s coat in top shape but also help prevent health issues while giving you extra bonding time together.
Think of grooming as part beauty session, part health check, and part quality time with your four-legged friend. Here’s how you can turn grooming time into happy time for both you and your pup.
Understanding the Labradoodle Coat
3 main coat types
Labradoodles inherit their coat from both the Labrador and the Poodle, which means no two pups look exactly alike. Knowing which coat type your doodle has helps you choose the right grooming tools and routine. The three main varieties are fleece, wool, and hair, each with its own quirks.
Fleece
Soft, silky, and slightly wavy, the fleece coat is often the go-to look for the Australian Labradoodle. It combines qualities of both poodles and retrievers, resulting in a fluffy texture that many owners love for its teddy bear charm. While beautiful, this coat isn’t low-maintenance.
Without regular brushing, mats can sneak in quickly, especially around the belly, tail, and private areas where fur tends to knot.
Wool
Tight, springy curls define the wool coat, making it the closest match to a classic Poodle coat. Shedding is almost non-existent, which is great for allergy-sensitive families. But what you save in loose fur, you make up for in upkeep.
Loose hair stays tangled in the curls, so daily brushing with a slicker brush is key. Skipping appointments with a groomer can leave the coat thick, heavy, and prone to matting.
Hair
Straight, coarse, and sometimes shaggy, the hair coat leans heavily toward the Labrador side. It’s most common in first-generation mixes, where half of the pup’s genes come from each breed. This coat type sheds more than the others but requires less intense care.
A good brushing a few times a week, paired with a flea comb, helps remove dead hair and keep the skin healthy. Although easier to manage, this coat still benefits from routine grooming to maintain a clean, fresh look.
How Coat Type Affects Grooming Frequency?
Not all Labradoodle coats demand the same level of care. How often you’ll need to brush or schedule grooming appointments depends on whether your doodle has a curly, fleece, or hair coat, and it doesn’t stay the same forever.
As puppies grow into their adult coat, the texture often changes, which can increase the need for regular brushing.
Curly or wool coats are the highest-maintenance. Because the curls are dense and trap loose hair, brushing three to four times a week is essential to prevent mats. These coats also need a trim about once a month to keep the length manageable and the texture fluffy instead of matted.
Fleece coats are a little more forgiving but still require consistency. Weekly brushing is usually enough to maintain their silky, wavy look, while trims every six to eight weeks help keep the desired length without tangles taking over.
Hair coats tend to be easier on owners since they shed more naturally. Even so, skipping grooming isn’t an option. Regular brushing helps manage loose fur and reduces the risk of skin irritation. While these coats don’t need trimming as often, occasional shaping keeps your doodle tidy.
Essential Tools & Supplies for Labradoodle Grooming
Having the right tools makes grooming your Labradoodle less of a chore and more of a routine you and your pup can enjoy. Because their coats vary in texture and length, using the proper brushes, clippers, and cleaning products is key to keeping their skin healthy and their coat free of mats.
Always stick with dog-specific products since human tools can damage the coat or irritate sensitive skin.
Here's everything you need:
-
Slicker brush: Best for daily brushing, especially around tricky spots like behind the ears, under the legs, and near the collar where mats often form.
-
Comb with wide and narrow teeth: Perfect for locating hidden tangles in thick areas of fur. Start with the wide teeth to loosen and finish with the narrow side for a smooth coat.
-
Detangling spray: Optional but handy for curly or wool coats. A light mist makes it easier to glide a brush through dense hair without tugging.
-
Dog-safe clippers and grooming scissors: Essential for trims around the body, head, and muzzle. Clippers keep the coat at the desired length, while scissors let you shape sensitive areas like the face and tail.
-
Pogi’s Grooming Wipes: Gentle wipes made with aloe vera and vitamin E, ideal for cleaning paws, beard, and private areas between baths. They help maintain hygiene without drying the skin.
-
Nail trimmers or grinder: Regular trimming keeps nails short and prevents discomfort when your dog walks or plays.
-
Ear cleaning solution and cotton pads: Labradoodles are prone to ear infections, so gently cleaning ear hair and removing buildup reduces bacteria growth.
Step-by-Step Grooming Guide for Labradoodles
Step 1: Detangle and Brush Thoroughly
Before anything else, give your Labradoodle’s coat a good brush-through. A slicker brush works best to glide over the surface and loosen up tangles, especially if your pup has been spending extra time outdoors. Working in small sections helps you stay thorough without overwhelming your doodle.
Once the top layer feels smooth, bring in a comb with wide and narrow teeth. This step reaches deeper into the coat, catching hidden mats that usually show up behind the ears, under the arms, or near the tail. Always move gently from the skin outward so you don’t pull or cause discomfort.
Tough mats are easier to handle if you take your time. Use your fingers to work them apart or spritz a little detangling spray to make brushing smoother. Keeping up with this routine every few days helps prevent mats, keeps the coat light, and leaves your pup looking fluffy instead of scruffy.
Step 2: Use Pogi’s Grooming Wipes for Spot Cleaning
Not every grooming session calls for a full bath. Sometimes all your doodle needs is a quick clean-up after rolling in the yard or splashing through puddles. This is where Pogi’s Grooming Wipes come in handy.
Made from plant-based bamboo fibers, these wipes are gentle on the skin and safe enough for daily use. They’re free from alcohol and harsh chemicals, so you can freshen up sensitive areas like the paws, belly, and even around the face without worry.
They’re especially useful after walks or bathroom breaks when dirt, allergens, and odors can build up. A quick wipe-down before brushing also helps loosen dust and dander, making the next step smoother. With wipes on hand, you can keep your Labradoodle looking and smelling fresh between baths without disrupting their coat’s natural texture.
Step 3: Bathe with a Gentle, Moisturizing Dog Shampoo
Even with regular brushing and wipe-downs, your Labradoodle will eventually need a proper bath to keep their coat fresh. Aim for every four to six weeks, or sooner if your pup comes home from playtime looking more sheep than doodle.
Start with lukewarm water and make sure the coat is fully wet before applying shampoo. Choose a dog-specific formula that’s gentle and moisturizing. Human shampoos don’t work here since your dog’s skin has a different pH balance. Lather carefully, steering clear of the eyes and ears, and then rinse thoroughly, not once but twice, to avoid leftover residue that can irritate the skin.
For extra softness, you can follow with a dog conditioner, which helps detangle and maintain coat texture. Finish by drying with a towel, then use a blow dryer on a cool or warm setting if your Labradoodle has a longer coat. This not only speeds up drying but also leaves the fur fluffy and light.
Step 4: Trim the Coat (If Needed)
Once your Labradoodle is clean and brushed, it’s easier to see which areas need a little shaping. The spots that usually grow out the fastest are the feet, face, underarms, and around the bum, and they can become uncomfortable if left unchecked.
Use grooming scissors for small, delicate trims and clippers with guards for the body to keep the coat at the desired length. Some owners prefer a short summer cut for easier maintenance, while others like the teddy bear look, with a rounded face and fluffy body. Both styles help prevent mats while keeping your pup looking cute.
If trimming at home feels overwhelming, scheduling a grooming appointment every six to eight weeks is a safe option. A professional groomer can maintain the coat evenly and ensure tricky areas like the muzzle, legs, and private areas are handled with care. Regular trims not only keep your doodle tidy but also make brushing between sessions much easier.
Step 5: Clean the Ears
A Labradoodle’s floppy ears may look adorable, but they also trap warmth and moisture, creating the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast. Left unchecked, this can lead to painful ear infections that are tough on both you and your pup. That’s why ear care should always be part of the grooming routine.
Start by gently trimming the hair around the ears to improve air circulation. Then, apply a vet-approved ear cleaning solution to a cotton pad and carefully wipe the inside of the ear flap. Focus only on the areas you can see. Never insert Q-tips or anything deep into the canal, as that can cause injury.
Checking the ears weekly helps you spot redness, odor, or discharge early, giving you time to book a visit to the vet if needed. A few minutes of care now can save your doodle from discomfort later.
Step 6: Trim the Nails
You’ll know it’s nail-trimming time when you hear that familiar “click-clack” on the floor. Long nails can make walking uncomfortable and even affect your Labradoodle’s posture, so keeping them short is more than just a cosmetic step.
Use dog nail clippers or a grinder and work slowly. Trim only the very tip of each nail, steering clear of the pink quick inside, since cutting too close can cause bleeding and pain. If your pup has dark nails where the quick isn’t visible, trim tiny amounts at a time to stay safe.
For dogs who squirm or owners who aren’t confident, trimming weekly in small increments is easier than waiting until nails get too long. And if you’d rather not risk it, a groomer or vet can handle the job during regular grooming appointments.
How Often Should You Groom a Labradoodle?
A Labradoodle’s coat and overall comfort depend on a steady routine. How often you groom will vary by coat type, but these general guidelines work for most doodles:
-
Brushing: Curly or wool coats need brushing three to four times a week to prevent mats. Straight or fleece coats can usually be brushed once or twice a week.
-
Bathing: Plan for a full bath every four to six weeks, or sooner if your doodle gets visibly dirty from time outdoors.
-
Trimming: Most coats benefit from a tidy-up every six to eight weeks, whether at home or with a professional groomer.
-
Nail trimming: Every two to three weeks keeps nails short enough to prevent discomfort while walking.
-
Ear cleaning: Weekly checks and gentle cleaning reduce the chance of ear infections. Your vet may suggest a different schedule depending on your dog’s health.
Signs Your Labradoodle Needs Grooming
Labradoodles won’t always sit still and tell you it’s time for a tidy-up, but their coat and habits usually give it away. Keep an eye out for these clear signs:
-
Mats and tangles: These often show up behind the ears, in the armpits, or near the tail where friction is common.
-
Unpleasant odor: A strong smell from the coat, paws, or ears can signal dirt buildup or even an infection.
-
Scratching or licking: Constant fussing at the skin may mean the coat is dirty, itchy, or hiding mats.
-
Dirty or discolored fur: The paws and belly pick up grime quickly, especially after walks or playtime outdoors.
-
Clicking nails: If you hear nails tapping on the floor, they’re overdue for a trim.
Grooming goes far beyond keeping your doodle cute in pictures. It prevents discomfort, lowers the risk of skin or ear problems, and makes daily life more comfortable for your dog.
Keep That Coat Cuddly With Pogi’s
A Labradoodle’s coat is part of what makes them so lovable, but it also comes with its share of upkeep. From brushing out tangles to trimming and bathing, every step adds to their comfort and health. What many owners discover is that the small habits in between those grooming sessions make the biggest difference.
Pogi’s Grooming Wipes are designed exactly for that. Made from plant-based bamboo fibers and enriched with aloe vera and vitamin E, they let you freshen up paws, beards, bellies, and private areas without harsh chemicals. They are hypoallergenic, gentle enough for daily use, and ideal for quick wipe-downs after outdoor play or bathroom breaks. Instead of waiting for mats, odors, or dirt to pile up, you can keep your doodle fresh and comfortable with minimal effort.
Stock up today at Pogis and make grooming a daily ritual that leads to cleaner homes, happier pups, and even better cuddle time.
FAQs
Can you groom a Labradoodle yourself?
Yes, you can groom a Labradoodle at home, but it takes patience and the right tools. A slicker brush, comb, clippers, and dog-safe scissors are essential for regular brushing and trims. Using Pogi’s Grooming Wipes between baths helps keep paws, ears, and private areas fresh.
Many owners handle daily brushing and spot cleaning themselves while scheduling grooming appointments every six to eight weeks with a professional groomer to maintain the coat at the desired length and prevent matting.
What is the best haircut for a Labradoodle?
The most popular style is the teddy bear cut, which leaves the face rounded and the body fluffy. Owners also choose a short summer cut if their doodle spends more time outdoors, since it is easier to maintain. The right style depends on coat type, lifestyle, and how often you want to brush. Curly or wool coats often look great clipped short, while fleece coats can be left at a half inch or longer to keep that soft, shaggy look.
How often does a Labradoodle need to be groomed?
Grooming frequency depends on coat type. Curly or wool coats need brushing three to four times a week, while fleece or straighter coats may only need brushing once or twice weekly. Trimming is usually required every six to eight weeks to keep the coat at the desired length.
Bathing every four to six weeks helps maintain healthy skin and fur. Regular nail trimming every two to three weeks and weekly ear checks reduce the risk of ear infections and discomfort.
Should you trim the hair around a Labradoodle’s eyes?
Yes, trimming the hair around the eyes is important to keep vision clear and prevent irritation. Overgrown hair near the eyes can trap dirt and bacteria, leading to discomfort or even infections. Use grooming scissors carefully, or ask a groomer to tidy up the muzzle and eye area during grooming appointments. Keeping this area short also makes your Labradoodle’s teddy bear face more defined and helps them stay comfortable, especially for older dogs with longer coats that grow quickly.
What happens if you don’t groom a Labradoodle?
Skipping grooming leads to mats, tangles, and discomfort. Wool and fleece coats are prone to matting, especially behind the ears, under the arms, and around the belly. Mats can pull on the skin, cause pain, and hide bacteria that may result in infections.
Without nail trims, your dog’s gait may be affected, and dirty ears raise the risk of ear infections. Neglecting brushing and trimming also makes future grooming harder, often requiring a shave at the groomer instead of a simple trim.
