The Ultimate Guide on Grooming Your Goldendoodle

So, you’ve had one too many surprise charges at the groomer, or your pup’s anxiety around strangers is starting to make those appointments more trouble than they’re worth. Or maybe, you’re just tired of wondering if you could do it better yourself. Whatever your reason, you’re not alone!

Yes, regular grooming is a must to keep them healthy and happy, and trust me, you don’t need to break the bank at a professional groomer to do it. Regular grooming also strenghtens the bond between you and your Goldendoodle’s.

I’ve been grooming Goldendoodles for years, and trust me, you can do this. In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step, from selecting the best tools to mastering techniques that will keep your pup comfortable and healthy.

Read Also: Micro Goldendoodle: Full Breed Information and Guide

Step-by-step guide on grooming your Goldendoodle

1. Prepare your grooming tools

You’ve got to have the right tools. Trust me, having the right gear makes a world of difference. Here’s a quick list of my must-haves:

• Nail Clippers: You’ll need a good pair to keep your pup’s nails in check. Aim for clipping them at least once a month – too long, and they can get uncomfortable for your pup.

• Shampoo: Always go for a shampoo specifically made for dogs. Human shampoos can strip their skin of natural oils, making it itchy and irritated. I love Bio-Groom Fluffy Puppy Shampoo or PawTree’s 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner – they’re gentle and tear-free.

• Slicker Brush: This brush is your best friend for getting rid of mats and tangles. I’ve tried many, and Coastal Pet Safari’s Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush is my go-to.

• Metal Comb: Perfect for those stubborn mats that need a bit more work. I swear by the Andis Stainless-Steel Comb.

• Dog Clippers: A cordless set with a detachable blade is ideal. I like the Wahl Deluxe Pro Series – it’s versatile and easy to handle.

• Grooming Scissors and Thinning Shears: Use these for the more sensitive spots where clippers can’t reach. Be careful, though – it’s easy to nick your pup if you’re not focused.

• Detangler Spray: Helps make the brushing easier, but remember, it won’t solve severe matting – regular brushing is key.

• Hair Dryer: A must after a bath. Letting a Goldendoodle air dry can cause bacteria to grow, especially in thicker areas like under the ears.

• Towel: You’ll need a good, absorbent one to soak up excess water post-bath.

With these tools on hand, you’re all set to make grooming a breeze!

2. Brushing the coat

Brushing is the foundation of good grooming – and trust me, it’s essential with a Goldendoodle’s coat. Their hair is prone to matting, and mats only get worse when wet. Always brush your dog thoroughly before a bath.

How to Brush: Start with a slicker brush to remove any tangles. Then, switch to a wide-toothed comb, working from the skin outwards. Brush against the grain to catch any hidden mats.

If you find any stubborn mats, use your fingers or a detangling brush – and that detangler spray I mentioned earlier will help here too. If the mats are too tight, don’t hesitate to use the clippers. But remember, shaving isn’t ideal, so daily brushing is your best friend to prevent mats.

3. Bath time!

Goldendoodles usually need a bath every two to four weeks, depending on how much they romp around. Use a dog-specific shampoo. Human shampoos can dry out their skin, making grooming uncomfortable. And don’t forget to rinse thoroughly – leftover shampoo can lead to irritation.

After the bath, towel them off and then use a blow dryer on a cool setting to dry their coat completely. Wet hair shrinks, so make sure it’s fully dry before any trimming – you don’t want any mishaps!

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to dry out their ears thoroughly to prevent infections. Moisture in the ear canal can create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and yeast – and trust me, dealing with ear infections is no fun for you or your pup!

4. Trimming Time!

This is where the real artistry comes in! Trimming takes practice, but you’ll get the hang of it with patience.

With Scissors:

• Trim the hair on the ears to about 1 inch in length.
• Carefully trim around the edge of the ear flap, and don’t forget to gently pluck any hair inside the ear canal. This helps prevent ear infections.
• Trim the hair around the face, being extra careful near the eyes.
• Keep the muzzle neat but leave enough length to maintain that cute Goldendoodle look.
• Brush out the tail thoroughly before trimming – mats can hide there too!

With Clippers:

• Start at the base of the neck and work your way down the body with a 1-inch guard on the clippers.
• Make sure to get the belly and groin area, using scissors if necessary.
• After clipping, brush against the grain to find any spots that need evening out.

5. Nail trimming

Goldendoodles need their nails trimmed every two to four weeks. If they get too long, they can grow into the pads and cause pain. Always cut just below where the nail curves to avoid the quick. For darker nails, cut a little at a time – it’s better to be safe than sorry!

If you’re nervous about hitting the quick, trim a little at a time. And keep some styptic powder handy in case you accidentally cut too close – it’ll stop the bleeding fast.

6. Teeth, Ears, and Eyes

Yes, brushing your dog’s teeth is a thing, and it’s important! Aim to brush at least once a week to keep plaque and tartar at bay. Use a dog-specific toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush, and be patient – it’ll be a bit weird for your pup at first, but they’ll get used to it.

For the ears, use a cotton ball or soft cloth to gently wipe out the inside of the ear canal. If you notice any redness or a foul smell, use a gentle, natural ear wash.

Goldendoodles are prone to tear staining, so daily eye cleaning is a must. Use a cotton ball to gently wipe away any debris, and avoid getting any cleaning solution in their eyes.

7. Dealing with Anal Glands

Most of the time, your doodle’s anal glands express naturally. But if you notice scooting or discomfort, it might be time for some manual expression. If you’re not comfortable, ask your vet for help.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Put your pup on an elevated surface with a towel underneath.
• Put on gloves and use petroleum jelly on your fingers.
• Have someone hold your dog while you gently squeeze the glands.

Conclusion

See? Grooming your Goldendoodle at home doesn’t have to be a daunting task. It just takes the right tools, some patience, and a little practice. And remember, your doodle will thank you for all the extra love and care you put into keeping them looking and feeling their best! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bond with your furry friend.