First time labradoodle mom? Don’t fret, we’ve got you covered with our New Puppy Essentials – Everything You Need For The First Few Months At Home.

If you, on the other hand, have a doodle pup yourself and are struggling to keep up with their grooming needs, I hope these insights and tips on how to groom a Labradoodle effectively, bring you some comfort and guidance. Whether you’re a new Labradoodle parent or looking to improve your grooming routine, this guide is here to help.

Grooming isn’t just about keeping your Labradoodle looking cute and fluffy (although that’s certainly a bonus!); it’s also essential for their health and well-being. From managing different coat types to mastering the art of brushing and bathing, there’s a lot to learn when it comes to grooming a Labradoodle. 

Let’s  explore the types of Labradoodle hair, essential grooming tools and products, tips for brushing and bathing, and techniques for ear care. With the right knowledge and a little bit of practice, you’ll be well-equipped to keep your Labradoodle looking and feeling their best. 

Understanding Labradoodle Hair

Labradoodles, like many other doodle breeds, can sport a variety of adorable hair textures, each as unique as the pup itself! There are three main types of Labradoodle hair: curly, wavy, and straight. Curly-haired Labradoodles often have tightly coiled locks that resemble those of a Poodle, while wavy-haired doodles have loose, flowing waves. On the other hand, straight-haired Labradoodles flaunt sleek, smooth coats. Each hair type comes with its own set of grooming needs and challenges, but one thing’s for sure: no matter the texture, Labradoodles are bound to steal hearts with their fabulous fur!

My experience comes from owning two very different coated labradoodles. One has a curly/wavy coat that has a soft and thin texture and the other has wavy/straight coat with very thick and coarse hair. I’ve come to learn that they each have very different coat needs, but still share a lot in common.

Coat Transformation

Labradoodle coats undergo fascinating transformations as these adorable pups grow from playful puppies into full grown adults. During the puppy stage, Labradoodles often sport soft, fluffy coats that are a delight to snuggle and cuddle with. These coats may exhibit a range of textures, from silky waves to plush curls, as they inherit traits from their Labrador Retriever and Poodle parents. As Labradoodles mature into adulthood, their coats typically undergo a significant change known as “coat transitioning.”

This transition involves the shedding of puppy fur and the development of their adult coat, which may have a different texture and thickness. Some Labradoodles may experience a period of shedding, while others may maintain their puppy coat until they reach adulthood. The adult coat often settles into its final form, revealing the characteristic traits of the breed, whether it’s the tight curls of a Poodle or the sleek waves of a Labrador. Understanding and managing these coat changes is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of your Labradoodle throughout their life stages.

Here is Luna, my wavy/straight and coarse hair labradoodle showing as a puppy vs now.

And here is Levi, my curly/wavy soft fine hair labradoodle as a puppy vs now:

Dog Mom Tips for Coat Maintenance

1. Establishing a grooming routine

Ok, here is where I’m going to share something that may scare you at first and contradict everything you’ve ever heard about proper dog grooming. I bathe my dogs every week or sometimes every other week. When I share this with other dog parents they think I’m crazy! But hear me out, this has been essential for keeping their coats in great shape. It keeps their coats clean and easy to brush through. It’s been a game changer!

2. Importance of regular brushing for Labradoodle health

Beyond just enhancing their appearance, grooming helps to prevent a multitude of health issues that can arise from neglected coats and hygiene. Labradoodles, with their thick and often curly or wavy coats, are particularly prone to matting and tangling if not properly groomed. These mats can harbor dirt, debris, and even pests like ticks and fleas, leading to skin irritation, infections, and discomfort for your pup. Grooming sessions also provide an opportunity to inspect the skin for any signs of irritation, lesions, or abnormalities that may require veterinary attention. 

3. Ear Care for Labradoodles

Let’s talk ears! If you have a regular groomer, which I hope you do, they usually take care of this part and that is remove hairs from inside their ears. Clean, hair-free ears have a better chance of not harboring moisture and bacteria which lead to ear infections, a common issue in breeds with floppy ears like Labradoodles. I clean my doodle ears every week with some cotton balls and an ear solution. It’s simple and easy and we rarely have any issues. I’ll share my favorite ear solution below.

4. Signs of skin or coat issues to look out for during grooming sessions

Grooming sessions are a great time to keep an eye out for any signs of skin or coat issues that may require attention. One common indication of a problem is excessive itching or scratching, which could signal skin irritation, allergies, or the presence of parasites like fleas or ticks. 

Redness, inflammation, or hot spots on the skin, can also indicate underlying infections or dermatological conditions. Additionally, any changes in the appearance or texture of the coat, such as dryness, dullness, or excessive shedding, should be noted, as they could be indicative of nutritional deficiencies or systemic health issues. 

The presence of mats, tangles, or bald patches in the coat may suggest inadequate grooming or underlying health concerns. By remaining vigilant during grooming sessions and promptly addressing any signs of skin or coat issues, we can help ensure our pups receive the care they need to maintain optimal health and well-being.

Tips for Brushing your Labradoodle

Investing in the right tools makes all the difference. A slicker brush for curly coats or a pin brush for wavy or straight coats are in my opinion, essential. Sometimes, a pin  brush will do while at others times a slicker brush is absolutely necessary. 

Before you begin brushing, make sure you spray the coat with some sort of detangling spray. This not only makes the job easier, it also helps to prevent the coat from breaking. Begin brushing from the bottom of the coat and work your way up, gently detangling any knots or mats with your fingers or the slicker brush. When encountering a difficult knot, a dematting tool can be of great help. I can count with one hand the number of times I’ve had to use mine, but have been so thankful to have had it when I needed it.  

Focus on one section at a time, ensuring thorough coverage and paying special attention to areas prone to matting, such as behind the ears, around their collar or harness area, and the legs and tail. Be gentle but firm in your strokes, and reward your doodle with praise and treats to make the grooming experience enjoyable.

This is especially important to establish when they are puppies. I brushed by labradoodle puppies EVERY SINGLE DAY when they were puppies. They did not need it, but the experience established a routine that has made it super easy on all of us allowing them to actually enjoy the process as they get older.

Before you finish your grooming session make sure you check your brushing work with a metal comb. This is so important! That’s how you catch spots you have missed and allows you the opportunity to catch them.

At the beginning aim to brush your Labradoodle every day. We did that for well over a year. As they get older and their coats transition to their adult coats you will learn what their coats need and what you can and can’t get away with to prevent mats and keep their coat looking healthy and shiny.

Our Labradoodle Grooming Routine

My dogs are 5 and 4 years old now and what works for us has changed depending on the season of life we are in. We now bathe them every week and they get brushed after the bath. We also have a groomer come once a month for their hair cuts and they both get brushed the night before their grooming appointment. 

Now, when our dogs are more active, we do have to brush them in between baths. But that is something you will learn to recognize and spot with your own pup. I can spot a mile away when a pup is in n need of a good brushing!

Product Essentials

Let’s talk tools! Below is a list of the tools that we have used for years and consider them essentials to have:

• High-quality dog shampoo and conditioner suitable for Labradoodle hair are a must. We switch these often, but we are currently using and loving: Botaniqa Show Line.
• Professional hair dryer.
• Detangling spray or conditioner for easier brushing. Currently using Botaniqa Tangle Free Spray but have also used iGroom Detangling Spray and Hydra Ultra Detangle and Dematting Spray.
• Slicker brush. Our favorite is the ActiVet® Brush: Pro Firm Purple.
• Pin brush
• Metal comb
• Dematting tool
• Ear cleaning solution. We use and absolutely love EcoEars Dog Ear Cleaner. 
• cotton balls

Caring for a Labradoodle is a journey filled with love, laughter, and yes, a fair share of grooming adventures. I hope you find these tips helpful. 

The post How to Groom a Labradoodle: Tips for a dog mom appeared first on Max and Co Pets.

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!

The post Best Dog Brush for Labradoodles (Dog Mom Grooming Tips) appeared first on Max and Co Pets.

The best dry dog shampoos on the market today

1. Chagrin Valley Fresh Fur Dry Shampoo

This is a dry dog shampoo powder made with natural ingredients with no harmful chemicals or artificial fragrances. Some ingredients include organic arrowroot powder, organic plantain, and organic lavender essential oil.

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2. Kin+Kind Soothing Almond+Vanilla Waterless Bath for Dogs

A foam waterless shampoo for dogs made with great ingredients and with natural sweet, nutty, and pleasant fragrance from essential oils. It’s clean and made in the USA.

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3. Begley’s Waterless Pet Shampoo

Begley’s Waterless pet shampoo is created using natural ingredients. There are no caustics, dyes, synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates, chlorine, formaldehyde, triclosan, or phosphates used and comes in four wonderful scents – lavender, citrus, oatmeal mango and tee tree.

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4. Burt’s Bees Waterless Shampoo for Dogs

Also formulated without sulfates, parabens, SLS, phthalates, petroleum, fragrances, and colorants and suitable for dogs and puppies.

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5. Mighty Mutt Hypoallergenic Waterless Shampoo

Made in the USA with 4 natural ingredients and free of sulfates, parabens, dyes, phthalates. It’s planet-friendly and the tearless hypoallergenic formula deodorizes without irritation leaving your pup smelling fresh.

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What is a dry dog shampoo and how does it work?

Dry dog shampoo is a powder or spray that is used to clean dogs without water. It works by absorbing dirt and oils from the dog’s coat. The benefits of using a dry dog shampoo include being able to clean the dog’s coat without getting them wet.

Using dry dog shampoo is simple. Simply sprinkle the powder or spray onto the dog’s coat, then brush it in.

Is Dry Shampoo Safe for Dogs?

As with everything, the safety of dry dog shampoos depends on the ingredients that are used in the formulation. Some dry dog shampoos are made with natural ingredients making them safer for dogs. However, some contain harsh chemicals, which can be harmful to your pup. It is important to read the label before using a dry dog shampoo to ensure that it is safe for your dog.

Some ingredients to avoid:

• DMDM Hydantoin
• Artificial colors like FD&C Blue #1 
• Ammonium Lauryl Ether Sulfate
• Polysorbate 20
• Artificial fragrances

The Benefits of Using Dry Dog Shampoo

It comes down to convenience. If you are a dog owner, you know. Keeping your dog clean can be a challenge sometimes. Dry shampoos make it a little easier when in a crunch. They can help to make the coat less oily and smell fresher and give you a little more time in between baths.

How to Use a Dry Dog Shampoo?

To use dry dog shampoo on your dog, simply sprinkle it on their coat or spray it on, let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the dirt and oils, then brush it out.

A Few Tips for Keeping Your Dog’s Coat Healthy and Shiny

Your dog’s diet is essential for your not only your dog’s health, but also his skin and coat health. A balanced, raw (or cooked) diet is rich in proteins and healthy fats essential for your dog’s well-being. If you don’ have the time to balance your dog’s raw meals or if it sounds overwhelming, check compiled a list of the our trusted raw food brands available nationwide.

Another must for keeping your dog’s coat shiny and healthy is with regular brushing. Brushing your dog’s coat regularly helps to remove dead hair which eventually leads to mats.

So, whether your dog is long-haired or short-haired, a little bit dirty or downright grungy, give these dry shampoos a try. Do you have a favorite already? Send us a message and let us know. We are always on the hunt for good products.

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