Because brushing out dreadlocks was not on your weekend to-do list.
If you have a doodle—Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Bernedoodle, Sheepadoodle, or any of the delightfully floofy cousins—you already know their coats are pure magic. Soft, curly, teddy-bear goodness. But with great fluff comes great responsibility.
Matting is the doodle parent’s sworn enemy. And if left unchecked, it can turn your sweet pup’s coat into a tangled mess that’s uncomfortable, unmanageable, and sometimes even unhealthy.
So how do you prevent matting in your doodle’s coat before it gets out of paw?
Let’s break it down, snarl-free
- Brush Often. Like… Really Often.
Think of brushing as your doodle’s daily spa treatment. It keeps their coat smooth, their skin healthy, and tangles at bay.
🛠️ What to use:
- A slicker brush (essential for detangling and fluffing)
- A metal comb (great for checking behind ears, armpits, and tail base)
📅 How often:
Daily is ideal. Every other day is acceptable. Once a week? That’s when mats sneak in.
2. Learn the “Line Brushing” Technique
Instead of just brushing over the top layer (which mats love to hide under), lift sections of the coat and brush from the skin outward. This gets all the way down to the base of the fur where tangles form.
👉 Pro tip: Watch a quick line-brushing tutorial online. It’s a game-changer.
3. Keep Them Clean, But Not Too Clean
A dirty coat mats faster. But bathing too frequently can strip natural oils and dry the skin.
🧼 Bathing schedule:
Every 4–6 weeks is perfect for most doodles. Always detangle before the bath—water tightens existing mats like magic glue. Not the fun kind.
4. Dry Them Thoroughly
If your doodle gets wet (from baths, rain, or a rogue puddle sprint), make sure their coat is fully dried and brushed afterward. Moisture + friction = mats waiting to happen.
🚫 Air-drying after a bath is a no-go for longer coats. Blow-dry on a low-heat setting while brushing.
5. Schedule Regular Grooms
Even if you’re a DIY-er, your doodle still needs a pro trim every 6–8 weeks. Groomers know how to shape the coat for easier maintenance—and they can spot matting trouble before it turns into a full-body shave.
✂️ Tell your groomer how short or long you want the coat—but remember: longer coats require more frequent brushing. No shortcuts there!
6. Watch the “Hot Zones”
Certain spots are mat magnets:
- Behind the ears
- Under the collar or harness
- Armpits
- Inner thighs
- Around the tail
Check these areas often, even if the rest of the coat looks fine. Small mats turn into big problems fast.
7. Use Detangling Spray (Your New Best Friend)
A good detangler helps prevent breakage and makes brushing smoother for you and less tuggy for your pup. Spray lightly before brushing, especially if your doodle’s coat is longer or wavier.
Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead of the Tangle Game
Matting happens. Even to the most dedicated doodle parents. But a solid routine, the right tools, and a little know-how go a long way.
Your doodle will thank you with extra snuggles, fewer grooming drama sessions, and a coat that turns heads on every walk.
And remember: if it ever gets out of control, don’t stress. A professional groomer can help hit the reset button—and you can start fresh with a game plan.