Grooming and coat
How often should a doodle be brushed?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Most doodle coats need brushing three to four times a week, and daily during periods of growth or humid weather, using a slicker brush followed by a metal comb to check for hidden mats close to the skin. Skipping even a few days often leads to noticeable tangling behind the ears and under the legs.
Why doodles need more than the average shedding breed
A typical Labradoodle or Goldendoodle coat combines the curl of a Poodle with the density of a Labrador or Golden Retriever, which often results in a thick, wavy to curly coat that traps loose hair the way a Poodle's does, but with more volume, making it especially prone to matting if brushing lapses even briefly.
A workable weekly routine
Three to four sessions a week of ten to fifteen minutes, using a slicker brush followed by a comb check, keeps most doodle coats manageable between professional grooms every four to six weeks. Puppies going through their coat change, usually between six and twelve months old, often need daily brushing during that transition since the mix of puppy and adult coat mats especially easily.
Humidity and activity increase the need
Humid weather and vigorous exercise both increase how quickly a doodle coat tangles, since moisture and friction are two of the main drivers of matting. Extra brushing sessions after swimming or on particularly humid days help catch tangles before they set in, even outside the usual three to four times a week schedule.
Key takeaways
- Most doodle coats need brushing three to four times a week, with a slicker brush and comb check combination.
- Puppies going through their coat change, usually six to twelve months old, often need daily brushing.
- Humid weather and swimming increase tangling and may call for extra sessions beyond the usual schedule.