So, you know how much I adore my Labradoodles, right? They’re the best combination of playful, loving, and oh-so-adorable! But let me tell you, keeping up with their grooming needs really intimidated me at the beginning. From their fluffy coats to those adorable floppy ears, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to keeping them looking and feeling their best. That’s why I’ve been on a quest to find the perfect dog brush for our Labradoodles, and along the way, I’ve picked up some valuable grooming tips that I can’t wait to share with you. So, grab a coffee and let me share the one tool that changed the game for us!
All the products we use and recommend are professional-grade products used by many dog groomers. The majority of the recommended products can be found on Amazon. However, some are only found on groomer supply websites, which I have also linked for you.
Understanding Labradoodle Coat Types
You know, one of the fascinating things about Labradoodles is their variety of coat types. From the super soft fleece to the more curly wool, and then there’s the straighter, hair-like coat. It’s like having a box of chocolates – you never know what you’re gonna get! Understanding your Labradoodle’s coat type is crucial for their grooming needs. For instance, those with fleece coats might need more frequent brushing to prevent matting, while wool coats might require a bit more TLC to keep them looking their best. I have two very different Labradoodles. One has a straighter/courser coat and the other a curlier/soft and fine coat. And although they are different, what I’m about to share has worked for us for the last five years that I have been a Labradoodle dog mom.
If Labradoodle grooming is your thing (welcome to the tribe!); I wrote a post all about our Labradoodle grooming routine and my favorite products here.
Not a new Labradoodle mom? Then you are probably familiar with the highly recommended, and extremely expensive Chris Christensen Slicker Brush. Unfortunately, this brush did not make the cut for us. We tried to love it, but it never worked for us and I would never recommend a product that I didn’t use and, most importantly, love.
So let’s get to it:
Best for Dematting (and my holy grail):
ActiVet Pro Firm Purple Brush
If you want, you can stop reading now, because this brush right here is what has kept my dogs tangle free for the last five years. I have tried many brushes, from the most expensive ones to the most affordable, but this one right here was a game changer! ActiVet brushes have rounded pins made of the highest quality German stainless steel and the flexible brush heads absorb the brush strokes when brushing so there is less tangling, less tearing of the coat, and less strain on the groomer.
- This professional dog grooming brush provides the ultimate brush out and undercoat removal.
- It is a time saver on thick coarse coats.
- It has bent firm bristles on both sides with a firm flex ratio.
Best for Fluff Drying:
Paw Brothers Slicker Dog
If you blow dry your doodle after baths, and I highly recommend that you do, this brush is for you. It’s small enough that can be used on the legs and in crevices and helps straighten the coat while you blow dry.
- Stainless steel pin tips are plastic to be gentle and slide easily through the coat.
- Flat slickers have rounded corners that will not catch fur.
- Grips are comfortable and non-slip.
Looking for an overall, budget-friendly pick, with extra long pins for really long coats? Take a look at Paw Brothers Extra Long Hard Pin Slicker Dog.
Grooming Tips for Labradoodle Owners
So I’ve been diving deep into the world of Labradoodle grooming, and let me tell you, it’s been quite the adventure! First things first, establishing a regular grooming routine is key – it keeps those tangles at bay and strengthens the bond between you and your fur baby. Check out our grooming routine here.
When it comes to brushing, start with a slicker brush (ActiVet Pro Firm Purple brush) for those mats and tangles, then switch to a metal comb to check your brushing job. You’ll be surprise at how sneaky tangles are. Oh, and don’t forget those ears – they need some love too! We tend to tackle ears during our weekly (or sometimes bi-weekly) baths. If you bathe your pup at other intervals, you may consider checking their ears weekly.
? Bathing your dog often helps maintain his/her coat. I’ve noticed that the longer I wait in between baths, the more tangles/mats I have to brush out.
The Must-Have Tools for Labradoodle Moms
Aside from the slicker brushes mentioned above (which you need!), here’s what you need to maintain your Labradoodle’s coat at home:
A De-Matting Spray
All grooming professionals recommend you spray your dog’s coat prior to brushing to minimize hair breakage. A de-matting spray softens your dog’s coat making brushing easier for you and your dog. Our favorites are Hydra Professional Ultra Dematting and Finishing Spray , Artero Mix Conditioner Spray, and now currently using Botaniqa Tangle Free Avocado.
A Dog Mat Remover
A mat remover is a great tool to have to cut through tough mats. In the rear occasions when you are unable to get the mat out with the ActiVet purple slicker brush, this mat remover is your friend. When mats are too close to the skin, are in hard-to-reach places, or your dog is simply too uncomfortable when brushing, you need this. It slices the mats in half making it easier to brush out. In the last five years of being a labradoodle dog mom, I’ve had to use this tool maybe three times. But let me tell you, I was glad to have it when I needed it.
Keep in mind that you are essentially cutting your dog’s hair when using this tool. Therefore, I keep this as my last line of defense. But have used it with great success for those pesky mats.
A Metal Comb
A metal comb is essentially your spot checker. Your metal comb does not have to be fancy or expensive. But please, do not finish a brushing session without checking your dog’s coat with a metal comb. You’ll be amazed how hidden mats can be. The comb is supposed to slide through your dog’s coat without getting caught.
If you do find a mat, don’t try to comb it out! Get the slicker brush, brush it out completely, and then check that area again with your metal comb.
How You Should Be Brushing Your Labradoodle
Line brushing is a technique used to make sure a dog’s coat is brushed evenly from the skin which ensures you don’t miss any spots. See video below for a visual explanation.
How to Get Your Dog Comfortable with Brushing
Start Them Young & Brush Daily
From the moment you get your labradoodle puppy home, start introducing the slicker brush. We brushed our puppies every single day. Although your puppy’s coat will usually be soft and easy to brush, and you will think that they don’t need it, this step is important to get your puppy used to being handled and getting his coat brushed. Do this every day for a few minutes a day. You’ll thank me later!
Use Treats
Treats, especially during the puppy stage, make the brushing process more enjoyable for your pup. If you start using treats from the time they are puppies they start to look forward to daily grooming sessions. My dogs now come to me and sit next to me when they see me walk out with their grooming caddy. Levi, especially, looks forward to our grooming session.
Be Gentle
Brush your dog as you would your own hair. Pulling your dog’s hair or pressing on his skin with a slicker brush hurts! When brushing out mats, I place my finger in between the mat and my dog’s skin to prevent scraping their skin with repeated brush strokes.
And be realistic, sometimes brushing out a mat is not possible without hurting your dog or making them extremely uncomfortable. Usually mats that are really close to the skin are the problem. In those instances, use the mat remover to cut through the mat. Hair grows back. You don’t ever want your dog to fear the grooming process.
Use a De-Matting Spray
Not only is a de-matting spray essential for preventing hair breakage, it makes brushing so much easier and they smell nice too!
Commonly Asked Questions by Dog Moms about Grooming Labradoodles
How often should I brush my Labradoodle?
Daily! Establishing a brushing routine is important. I would say at least for the first two years, you should brush them daily. After that, you can adjust to their grooming needs now that you know how their coats behave.
My Labradoodle keeps getting mats. What can I do to prevent them?
Brush, brush, brush. Daily brushing is essential! Weekly bathing with shampoo and conditioner helps immensely. Just make sure you fully dry your pup after baths and that he/she is completely tangle free.
Can I use human hair brushes on my Labradoodle?
Not in my opinion. You need a slicker brush, and a good one!
What should I do if my Labradoodle doesn’t like being groomed?
Offer treats galore! We brushed our dogs daily when they were puppies and they received tons of treats while being brushed. If you are getting your labradoodle when he or she is a little older, introduce them to their brushing routine slowly and offer lots of treats. They learn quickly, but consistency is key here.
Should I bathe my Labradoodle at home or take them to a professional groomer?
This is completely up to you and what you can afford. I recommend your labradoodle gets groomed by a professional groomer every 4-6 weeks. In between that time, it’s completely up to you.
How can I keep my Labradoodle’s ears clean and free from infections?
I can tell you how to keep them clean, but how to keep them free of infections is a completely different answer and it depends on so many factors. I clean our pups’ ears every week. We use EcoEars and cotton pads and have never had a problem.
When it comes to ear infections, that can be caused by various issues. Please consult with your veterinarian if you think your dog may have an ear infection.
Are there any dietary supplements or grooming products that can improve my Labradoodle’s coat health?
Yes! By now you already know my product recommendations. Now let me tell you how important food is. Quality dog food plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy and lustrous coat for our Labradoodles. Just like humans, dogs need a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients to support their overall health, including their skin and coat. High-quality dog food provides the necessary proteins, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to coat health and shine. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, for example, are crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and a glossy coat. By feeding our Labradoodles a nutritious diet tailored to their needs, we’re not just nourishing their bodies, but we’re also giving them the foundation for a radiant and vibrant coat.
I hope these grooming tips and recommendations help make your Labradoodle’s grooming routine a breeze! Remember, every snip and brush strengthens the bond between you and your fur-baby. So, here’s to many happy grooming sessions and endless cuddles with our beloved Labradoodles!
If you ever have any questions or want to share grooming stories, you know I’m just a bark away. Cheers to being the best Labradoodle moms ever!
