Step-by-step guide to grooming your doodle at home
Save money, master Doodle hair care, and keep your pup happy and healthy.
Grooming your Doodle at Home—whether it’s a Labradoodle, Goldendoodle, or Bernedoodle—can feel like a daunting task. Doodles are known for their gorgeous, fluffy coats, but that lush fur comes with responsibility. Regular grooming is essential for your dog’s health and comfort, ensuring their coat stays mat-free, their skin healthy, and their appearance paws-itively adorable.
While professional grooming can be convenient, it’s not always practical or affordable. Learning to groom your Doodle at home can save money, deepen your bond, and allow you to tailor the experience to your dog’s comfort level. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully groom your Doodle at home, from prepping your pup to maintaining their coat between grooms.
Save over $2,000 a year by Grooming Your Doddle at Home
Cost vs. Convenience: Why Grooming at Home Makes Sense
Grooming a Doodle professionally can get expensive. On average, professional grooming services cost anywhere from $75 to $150 per visit, depending on your dog’s size and coat condition. Considering that Doodles need grooming every 4 to 6 weeks, the costs add up quickly—reaching upwards of $2000 annually. Think about it, if you pay $200 every 6 weeks, that’s over $2, 000! By grooming your Doodle yourself, you can significantly cut these expenses while having greater control over the process.
That said, DIY grooming does require an initial investment in the right tools and some practice. But don’t worry—this step-by-step guide will help you become a confident home groomer.
Grooming your Doodle at Home: Preparation is Key
Before you grab the clippers, take time to prepare both you and your Doodle for a successful grooming session. The right setup and mindset can make all the difference.
Pre-Grooming Tips:
- Reduce Stress with Doggy CBD
- If your Doodle tends to be anxious, consider using dog-friendly CBD products like Honest Paws CBD Oil or Holistapet CBD Treats to help them relax. Calming supplements can set a positive tone for the session.
- Pre-Brush Thoroughly
- Brushing your Doodle before grooming helps detangle their coat, remove loose hair, and identify any mats. Use a high-quality brush like the Chris Christensen Big G Dog Slicker Brush to tackle tangles gently.
- Burn Off Some Energy
- A long walk or play session before grooming helps your Doodle release pent-up energy, making them calmer and easier to handle during the session.
- Create a Relaxing Environment
- Choose a quiet, distraction-free room for grooming. Play calming music or white noise to soothe your pup, and keep their favorite chew toys or treats nearby.
- Invest in a Grooming Table
- While optional, a grooming table makes the process much easier. It keeps your Doodle at the perfect height, saving your back and ensuring that your pup stays in one place.
- Plan Ahead
- Ensure you have enough time to groom without feeling rushed. Dogs can sense your mood—if you’re stressed, they’ll feel it too. Stay calm, confident, and patient throughout.
I did not do this the first time, but their are tons of YouTube videos and helpful guides to get you started. I personally watched the groomer the first time (she was a traveling groomer – very convenient but EXPENSIVE!)
Grooming your Doodle at home: Must-Have Tools and Equipment
Having the right tools ensures a smooth and stress-free grooming experience. Here are some essentials to add to your toolkit:
- Chris Christensen Big G Dog Slicker Brush – A must-have for removing mats and tangles.
- Andis ProClip 7-Speed Clippers – Professional-grade clippers for an even, smooth cut.
- Wahl Pet-Pro Corded Clipper & Battery Trimmer – Pet Grooming Combo Kit for Dogs with Light to Thick Coats
- LuckyTail Paws Nail Grinder – A safe, quiet option for trimming nails.
- TropiClean PerfectFur Detangling Dog Brush – Ideal for daily brushing and keeping the coat mat-free.
- Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo – Gentle on sensitive skin and leaves your pup smelling fresh.
- GLADOG Dog Grooming Scissors – Professional Pet Grooming Scissors Kit
Step-by-Step Guide to Groom-ing Your Doodle
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Step 1: Start with a Bath (although sometimes I will forgo this step if I am pressed for time and use my secret weapon, grab it here!
Use warm water and a gentle shampoo like Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo to cleanse your Doodle’s coat. Rinse thoroughly to avoid any residue that could irritate their skin. Towel dry to remove excess moisture, but avoid vigorous rubbing.
Step 2: Dry and Brush
Use a high-velocity dryer or a regular blow dryer on a low-heat setting to dry your Doodle’s coat. While drying, brush through their fur with the Chris Christensen Slicker Brush to remove tangles. This step ensures their coat is completely dry and mat-free before clipping. You must brush – Pro Tip brush the furr towards the head, I learned this by watching the groomer. After, they will look just like Bob Ross.
Step 3: Clip and Trim
Using the Andis ProClip 7-Speed Clippers, start clipping your Doodle’s body hair in the direction of growth. Use different blade lengths depending on the desired coat length—shorter for summer or longer for wintry months. Be gentle around sensitive areas like the face, paws, and tail. Pro Tip: do all of the paws and legs first, you will need to remove the guard and try and get the fur between the toes and on the pads of their feet.
Step 4: Trim the Nails
Use the Oster Gentle Paws Nail Grinder to safely file down your Doodle’s nails. Trim small amounts at a time to avoid cutting too close to the quick. I don’t even attempt to use the dog clippers anymore because the grinder is so much easier.
Step 5: Clean the Ears
Gently clean your Doodle’s ears with a dog-safe ear cleaner and cotton pads. This helps prevent infections and removes wax buildup. I like to put a little rubbing alcohol on the Q-tip to get any infections or grossness.
Step 6: Final Touches
Finish with a light spritz of dog-safe coat spray for shine and softness. Reward your Doodle with treats and praise for their patience!
Better Grooming Between Sessions
Maintaining your Doodle’s coat between grooming sessions prevents tangles and mats from forming.
- Daily Brushing
Use the TropiClean Detangling Brush to keep their coat smooth and free of debris. Aim for at least three brushing sessions per week to prevent mat buildup.
- Spot Clean When Necessary
Use dog-safe wipes or a damp cloth to clean their paws, face, and underbelly after outdoor adventures.
- Schedule Regular Nail Trims
Check their nails and grind or trim every 4 weeks to keep them healthy.
Common Grooming Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping Pre-Brushing
Mats can become worse when wet, so always brush thoroughly before bathing.
- Rushing the Process
Grooming takes time, especially when you’re just starting out. Work at a comfortable pace for you and your Doodle.
- Using the Wrong Tools
Investing in high-quality tools makes all the difference. Cheap clippers can tug hair or overheat, causing discomfort.
And remember—don’t stress over a less-than-perfect trim. A bad fur cut doesn’t mean the next one will be bad. With practice, you’ll continue to improve!
Keep Your Doodle Happy, Healthy, and Gorgeous
Grooming your Doodle at home may not be effortless, but it’s certainly rewarding. Not only will your pup look and feel better, but the process also strengthens your bond. With the right tools, preparation, and practice, you’ll be on your way to becoming a pro groomer in no time!
Looking for more tips or recommendations? Explore our full range of grooming resources to keep your Doodle looking their best.
FAQ’s
1. How often should I groom my Doodle at home?
Doodles typically need to be brushed several times a week and fully groomed every 6-8 weeks to prevent matting and maintain their coat.
2. What tools do I need for grooming my Doodle?
Essential tools include a slicker brush, a metal comb, grooming scissors, clippers, and dog-safe shampoo and conditioner.
3. How can I prevent matting in my Doodle’s coat?
Regular brushing is key! Focus on areas prone to tangling, like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail.
4. Can I groom my Doodle if I’ve never done it before?
Absolutely! Start with basic brushing and take it step by step. Over time, you’ll become more comfortable with the process.
5. Should I take my Doodle to a professional groomer?
If you’re unsure or need help with specific cuts, a professional groomer can be a great option. Some owners also alternate between professional grooming and at-home maintenance.
Grab my go-to tools to Groom Your Doodle Yourself!
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Learn how groom your Doodle at home with this step-by-step guide. Save money, master Doodle hair care, and keep your pup happy and healthy.
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