Goldendoodles are wonderful dogs both inside and out. They come in a variety of temperaments, shapes, colours, sizes, and coats. Although most Goldendoodles are low to non-shedding, the trade-off for a fur-free home is the coat maintenance they require.

Grooming requirements vary depending on the coat. Brushing can range from daily to occasional, and trimming or shaving anywhere from every 4 to 6 weeks to every 6 months, depending on the season, your preferred look, and how much time you have to maintain a longer style.

Bathing your Goldendoodle every 4 to 6 weeks is ideal, though every 2 weeks at most is fine if needed. During muddy season, wash as needed. Always use gentle shampoos and conditioners to avoid drying out their skin.

Supplies for Brushing Your Goldendoodle

• A pin brush works well for puppy coats or low-maintenance short and straight coats
• A long bent-pin slicker brush for deeper penetration in thicker, curlier coats
• A finishing metal butter comb
• A quality detangling spray

Tips for Brushing Your Goldendoodle

• Make sure your dog has had some good physical or mental exercise before you brush. A calmer dog makes for a much smoother experience.
• The more relaxed and confident you are, the better your dog will behave. Think of it as quality bonding time.
• Gentle massages before and during brushing make it a more positive experience for your pup.
• Use detangling spray when needed, especially for thicker or curlier coats.
• Use the line brushing technique. Start at the feet and work your way up. Lift the coat with one hand to expose a line down to the skin, then brush down in small sections with your slicker brush. There are great YouTube tutorials on this if you want to see it in action.
• After line brushing, run a metal comb through the coat starting at the skin to catch any missed tangles. Pay extra attention to high-mat areas like behind the ears, in the armpits, and around the tail.

Tips for Bathing Your Goldendoodle

• Always brush thoroughly before bathing. Tangles left in during a bath can quickly turn into mats.
• Use a quality shampoo and rinse thoroughly.
• Follow with a quality conditioner and leave it on for 3 to 5 minutes before rinsing. This helps prevent tangles and matting between baths.
• Towel dry and let them air dry, or use a dryer.
• A high-velocity pet dryer with a warm setting is worth the investment. It fluffs the coat and helps break up tight curls. Avoid human hair dryers as they lack the power of a pet dryer and can run too hot, risking burns to the skin.
• Always clean your dog’s ears with a vet-recommended ear cleaner after every bath, after swimming, or weekly during humid months. This helps prevent moisture buildup and reduces the risk of ear infections.

In Between Visits: Regular Maintenance and Grooming

Some Goldendoodle coats grow quickly. A quick tidy around the eyes keeps hair out of their line of vision, and a trim around the rear prevents any unwanted cling-ons. Both can be done at home with scissors or a clipper, or left to your groomer during a tidy appointment.

• Clean ears weekly with a vet-recommended ear cleaner and a cosmetic pad
• Brush teeth weekly and keep quality dental toys or treats on hand
• Trim nails regularly using either manual nail cutters or a Dremel. YouTube has excellent tutorials for learning proper technique and keeping your dog comfortable with the process.

Ready To Give Your Goldendoodle the Best Start?

At Hearty K9s, we set every puppy up for grooming success from day one. If you have questions about coat care or want personalized advice for your pup, we would love to hear from you.