Golden Doodle Grooming 101: Fluff, Curls, and Everything in Between

If you're the proud parent of a Golden Doodle, you already know these curly-coated cuties are as charming as they come. Equal parts Golden Retriever and Poodle, they inherit not only the best personality traits (loyal, friendly, smart!) but also a coat that requires a bit more TLC than your average pup.

Don't worry, we're here to help you understand what makes grooming your Golden Doodle unique, and how to keep them looking fabulous (and feeling great) all year long.

Too cute to handle, too floofy to miss.💓

A Golden Doodle's hair is unique because it blends traits from two very different breeds, each contributing specific coat characteristics. Here’s what makes their hair so special (and golden doodle grooming sometimes challenging!):

🐩 From the Poodle:

• Curly or tightly waved hair

• Low shedding (which appeals to allergy-sensitive families)

• Hair that grows continuously like human hair, requiring regular grooming

• Dense, moisture-trapping texture, which can lead to matting if not properly maintained

🐕 From the Golden Retriever:

• Long, straight or wavy double coat

• Heavier seasonal shedding

• Softer, silkier texture, especially in wavy-coated Doodles

• More oils in the coat, which can make the fur appear shinier but also attract more dirt

The Doodle Blend:

Golden Doodles can have three main coat types, depending on their generation and which parent they take after more:

1. Curly (like a Poodle) – Low shedding, but mats easily; high maintenance

2. Wavy (most common) – A mix of both parents; lower shedding with moderate grooming needs

3. Straight (more Golden Retriever-like) – Less prone to matting but may shed more

Because Golden Doodle coats don’t naturally shed like many other breeds, dead hair and debris stay trapped, causing tangles and mats without routine brushing and trimming. Plus, their coat changes over time, especially from puppyhood to adulthood often becoming curlier or thicker. Without proper grooming, those signature curls can quickly turn into a matted mess which is uncomfortable (and sometimes painful) for your pup.

Golden Doodle glow-up, incoming...

How Often Should You Groom a Golden Doodle?

At MOSA Pet Spa & Resort, we recommend a grooming schedule every 4 to 6 weeks for Golden Doodles. This allows us to stay ahead of mats and tangles while keeping their coat in top shape.

In between spa visits, brushing your doodle at home at least 3 to 4 times a week will help prevent knots and keep their coat soft and healthy. Brushing a Golden Doodle at home can be manageable and even enjoyable with the right tools and techniques. Here are some grooming-pro-approved tips to keep those famous curls and waves in great shape between spa visits:

1. Use the Right Tools

• Slicker Brush: Helps remove tangles and loose hair.

• Metal Comb (Greyhound Comb): For getting down to the skin and checking for hidden mats.

• Detangling Spray (optional): A light mist can make brushing more comfortable and effective.

2. Always Start with a Detangled Coat

If your Doodle is matted or tangled, brushing dry can be painful. Lightly misting their coat with a detangler or conditioner can soften the hair and reduce static.

3. Work in Sections

Break it down: start with the legs, then move to the tail, back, chest, and face. Use small sections and gently brush from the skin outward, not just the surface.

Pro Tip: Brushing just the top layer makes the coat look fluffy but hides painful mats underneath.

4. Don’t Forget Common Trouble Spots

Pay special attention to areas where mats form quickly:

• Behind the ears

• Under the collar or harness

• Armpits

• Tail base

• Belly and legs

5. If It’s Matted, Don’t Tug, Ask a Pro

Mats can be painful and even lead to skin issues. If you feel resistance near the skin, don’t force it. Your groomer can work to safely remove it when book you book a grooming appointment.

Living proof that bedhead can be adorable.

Skin, Ear & Bathing Care for Golden Doodles

Golden Doodles are known for their adorable, fluffy coats—but that same coat, combined with floppy ears, can make them more prone to certain skin and ear issues if not properly cared for. Two of the most common problems owners see are:

• Ear infections, caused by moisture and wax getting trapped in the ear canal

• Hot spots and skin irritation, often due to matted fur, poor airflow, or debris buildup near the skin

To help prevent these issues, a regular bathing and grooming routine is key. Most Doodles do best with a bath every 4 to 6 weeks, using a mild, moisturizing dog shampoo, preferably one that’s free of synthetic fragrances or harsh detergents. Holistic or natural shampoos with ingredients like oatmeal, aloe, or chamomile are great for calming the skin and preventing dryness or flakiness.

After the bath, always dry your Doodle thoroughly, especially in areas where the coat is thickest or mats easily (like under the ears, armpits, and tail base). Allowing them to air dry can tighten tangles and lead to matting, which traps moisture and creates the perfect environment for skin irritation. Don’t skip the ears. Clean them gently with a vet-recommended ear wash and cotton pad (never go too deep), and make sure they’re fully dry. Routine ear care can go a long way in preventing infections.

If bathing your Golden Doodle at home feels overwhelming, we totally get it! Between the thick curls, sensitive skin, and drying process, it can be a lot to manage. We customize bathing and grooming appointments based on the breed.

Ear cleaning is included in a full grooming service.

Choosing a Grooming Style: It's More Than Just Looks

Golden Doodles come in all shapes, sizes, and coat textures so their grooming styles can be customized for both looks and lifestyle. Here are the most popular Golden Doodle grooming cuts, along with descriptions to give you some direction:

1. Teddy Bear Cut (a.k.a. Puppy Cut)

The most popular choice.

• Coat is trimmed evenly all over, usually to ½"–1" in length

• Rounded face and muzzle to keep that cute, plush look

• Ears and tail slightly longer for softness

  ✔️ Great for: Low-maintenance upkeep, everyday cuteness

  ⚠️ Needs regular brushing to avoid matting underneath

2. Kennel Cut

Simple and practical.

• Shorter body length (¼"–½") for easier maintenance

• Legs, tail, and head may be left slightly longer for shape

  ✔️ Great for: Active Doodles, warmer months, senior dogs

  ⚠️ Less “fluffy,” but very manageable for busy families

3. Lamb Cut

Fluffy body with styled legs.

• Body clipped shorter (½" or less), while legs are blended or left longer

• Rounded feet and clean face

  ✔️ Great for: A polished look with a little flair

  ⚠️ Requires consistent brushing and trimming

4. Poodle-Inspired Cut

A nod to the Doodle’s Poodle parent.

• Scissored face, topknot, and tail pompom

• Legs left longer with a clipped body

  ✔️ Great for: Doodles with curlier coats

  ⚠️ Best handled by experienced groomers—more upkeep required

5. Summer Cut

Keep it cool and carefree.

• Short, even clip all over the body (⅛"–¼")

• Ideal for hot climates or heavy-shedding seasons

  ✔️ Great for: Outdoor pups and active lifestyles

  ⚠️ Less “Doodle fluff,” but very functional and comfortable

6. Face, Feet & Fanny Trim

A tidy-up between full grooms.

• Neatening of the eyes, feet, pads, and sanitary areas

• Keeps things clean without a full haircut

  ✔️ Great for: Maintenance between full grooming appointments

  ⚠️ Not a replacement for regular grooming, but a nice refresh

Each Doodle’s coat is different, some lean curlier like a Poodle, others are softer and wavier like a Retriever, our groomers work with each owner to find the right style for their pup's coat type, lifestyle, and how much brushing you realistically want to do at home. (No shame, we all get busy!)

Groomed and ready to accept treats.

Pro Tip: Start Young!

If you have a Golden Doodle puppy, it’s SO important to get them used to grooming early. Our Puppy Introduction appointment is designed to make that first bath and trim a positive, stress-free experience which sets the tone for a lifetime of spa days.

Fluff Love, the Right Way

We get it: your Doodle is family. That’s why we take the time to provide gentle, expert care that keeps your pup comfortable, clean, and oh-so-snuggly. Whether it’s your first grooming visit or your fiftieth, we’re here to make it easy, educational, and a little bit fun.

Fresh from the fluff spa!

Ready to give your Golden Doodle the spa day they deserve? Book a bathing, grooming or daycare visit at MOSA Pet Spa & Resort and let those curls shine!

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