Doodle Grooming 101: How to properly brush your doodle mix

If you’ve got a doodle, you know the truth: that adorable teddy bear coat can be high maintenance if you want it fluffy… I get it, I have two doodles! Many first-time doodle parents are shocked when they realize brushing isn’t as simple as a quick swipe from head to tail.

Keeping your doodle’s coat healthy, mat-free, and fluffy takes a little technique, the right tools, and a bit of time — but don’t worry, it’s totally doable (and can even be fun once you know how) and gets easier once you get the practice.

Why Doodle Coats Need Special Care

Unlike some other breeds, doodles usually have hair that’s long, wavy, or curly — and it can mat close to the skin if you’re not brushing all the way down to the skin. Light surface brushing just won’t cut it — those hidden tangles can become a problem fast.

That’s why professional groomers see so many doodles needing full shave-downs when mats get too tight and painful to brush out. The good news? A proper brushing routine at home can prevent that entirely.

How to Actually Brush a Doodle

So, what’s the secret? It’s called line brushing. Here’s how it works:

1. Work in Sections: Don’t just brush over the top of the coat; especially not head to tail. Use your fingers to lift a small section and see the skin underneath. You should be brushing about a fingers width of hair at a time.
2. Use the Slicker Brush Properly:
   • Hold it at a slight angle, not flat against the body.
   • Use gentle, short strokes to brush from the skin outward — no digging or scraping.
   • Be patient. Doodles have layers! I promise it will go faster once you get the hang of it.
   • Slowly brush sections of hair, line by line. I find working my way upward helps a lot.
3. Take Breaks: Long sessions can be tiring for both of you. It’s fine to brush half today and half tomorrow — just stay consistent.

Bath Time Tips!

A doodle’s coat mats even faster if it’s dirty or full of loose hair. Regular baths help, but only if you brush before and after. On the other end of the spectrum, when a doodle’s coat air-dries without being brushed and dried, the hair curls or clumps together as it dries. This creates friction and tangling, especially in high-friction areas (hint these are the spots that usually mat first on a dog):

• Behind the ears
• Under the collar or harness
• Armpits and groin
• Legs and tail

Moisture trapped near the skin can also cause tangles to tighten, and in worst cases, lead to hot spots or skin irritation under the mat. It seems like a lot but a good schedule with a blow dry afterwards will keep everyone on track. I use a dog specific blow drier, but if you don’t have one that be sure to set your human drier to low or no heat. This one will blow dry but also helps trim the coat if you’re trying to groom by yourself at home.

Pro tip: Tweezerman’s 2-in-1 Shampoo-Dispensing Bath Brush is amazing for loosening undercoat while making sure shampoo gets applied everywhere. It saves your wrists and your doodle’s patience.

Your Doodle Grooming Routine

✨ Brush & comb: 3–4 times per week
✨ Trim eyes & paws: Every few weeks, for senior dogs keep an eye on fur between paws which can cause them to slip and loose traction.
✨ Bath: Once a month, or as needed
✨ Professional groom: Every 6–8 weeks

New to Grooming? Start Small (and make it fun for them too)

If your doodle isn’t used to brushing, don’t expect to sit down and do the whole body start to finish. That’s a fast track to frustration — for both of you.

Instead, start with short, low-pressure sessions. Just a few minutes brushing one area (like a leg or chest), then stop before your dog gets squirmy or stressed. The goal is to keep it positive and end on a good note.

Pro tips:

• Licky mats or stuffed Kongs can be total game changers. Spread a little peanut butter (or fresh food like My Perfect Pet) on a licky mat and stick it to the floor or side of the tub.
• Start with areas your dog enjoys being touched — like the shoulders or chest — before moving to trickier zones like the tail, paws or ears.
• Use praise, calm energy, and treats to make grooming something they look forward to, not dread. You may have to use more treats in the beginning but you can decrease over time.

Over time, your dog will build up tolerance and even learn to relax during longer sessions. Just be consistent, patient, and kind — especially in the beginning.

Final Thoughts

Brushing and grooming your dog isn’t about perfection — it’s about keeping your best friend comfy, healthy, and looking good. The secret? Take your time, get the right tools, and don’t skip the sections you can’t see.

Trust me, your future self (and your dog groomer) will thank you for it!