Published on February 25, 2025

Goldendoodles are beloved for their friendly, affectionate personalities and their stunning coats. However, to keep your Goldendoodle looking and feeling their best, regular grooming is essential. Grooming not only helps maintain the appearance of their curly or wavy coats but also plays a vital role in their overall health and well-being. 

In this post, we’ll explore the grooming needs of Goldendoodles and offer guidance on how to care for their coats, skin, and nails. Understanding these grooming essentials will help ensure your Goldendoodle remains healthy, happy, and comfortable.

The Goldendoodle Coat: What Makes It Unique

Goldendoodles are known for their beautiful, curly coats that are a cross between the Poodle and the Golden Retriever. While the coat of each Goldendoodle can vary, it generally falls into one of three categories: curly, wavy, or straight. The curly coat, in particular, is one of the breed’s standout features. It’s low-shedding, which makes it a great option for people with allergies, but it also requires a bit more attention in terms of grooming.

Regardless of whether your Goldendoodle has a curly or wavy coat, regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and tangles. Matting occurs when hair becomes tangled and knotted, which can lead to skin irritation or infections if not addressed. Keeping your Goldendoodle’s coat clean and brushed is the first step in maintaining their beautiful, soft fur and ensuring their comfort.

Brushing and Combing: Preventing Mats and Tangles

Brushing and combing are essential parts of grooming for Goldendoodles. It’s recommended to brush your Goldendoodle at least two to three times a week, but if they have a particularly thick or curly coat, you may need to do it more often. Regular brushing prevents mats and tangles from forming, which can become painful for your dog and difficult to remove if left unattended. It also helps distribute natural oils in the coat, keeping the fur healthy and shiny.

When brushing, it’s important to use the right tools. A slicker brush, which has fine, flexible bristles, is ideal for removing tangles and loose fur. You may also want to use a comb to go through any areas that are particularly matted or tangled. Take your time when brushing, being gentle around sensitive areas like the ears and underbelly. Regular brushing not only improves the look and feel of your Goldendoodle’s coat but also helps build a bond between you and your pet.

Bathing Your Goldendoodle

Bathing your Goldendoodle is another important part of their grooming routine. While they don’t need to be bathed as frequently as some other breeds, it’s still essential to wash them every two to three months, or when they’ve become particularly dirty or smelly. Over-bathing can strip the natural oils from their coat, leading to dry, flaky skin. However, regular baths are important for keeping your Goldendoodle clean and free from allergens, dirt, and parasites.

When bathing your Goldendoodle, be sure to use a dog-specific shampoo. Avoid using human shampoo, as it can be too harsh for your dog’s skin and coat. It’s also important to thoroughly rinse the shampoo out to avoid irritation. After bathing, use a towel to gently dry your dog, followed by a blow dryer if necessary. Be sure to avoid getting water in their ears, as this can lead to ear infections, which are common in dogs with floppy ears like Goldendoodles.

Nail Trimming: Keeping Paws Healthy

Nail trimming is an important part of grooming that is often overlooked. If your Goldendoodle’s nails are left untrimmed, they can become long and uncomfortable, making it difficult for them to walk or run properly. Long nails can also lead to painful conditions like ingrown nails or infections. To avoid these issues, it’s recommended to trim your Goldendoodle’s nails every four to six weeks, or as needed.

When trimming your dog’s nails, it’s important to be cautious and only cut the tip of the nail to avoid cutting into the quick, which can cause bleeding and pain. If you’re unsure about trimming your Goldendoodle’s nails yourself, consider taking them to a professional groomer or vet. Regular nail trimming helps keep your dog comfortable and prevents future health problems related to their paws.

Ear Care: Preventing Infections

Goldendoodles have floppy ears, which can trap moisture and debris, creating an environment where infections are more likely to develop. To prevent ear infections, it’s important to regularly check and clean your Goldendoodle’s ears. Use a dog-safe ear cleaner and a soft cloth or cotton ball to gently wipe the inside of the ears. Be careful not to insert anything deep into the ear canal, as this can cause injury.

In addition to cleaning, be sure to dry your Goldendoodle’s ears after baths or swims to prevent moisture buildup. If you notice signs of ear infections, such as redness, swelling, or a foul odor, it’s important to consult your vet for treatment. Regular ear care is an essential part of grooming for Goldendoodles, helping to ensure that their ears stay healthy and free from infection.

Dental Hygiene: Keeping Their Smile Bright

Dental hygiene is another important aspect of grooming that’s often neglected. Goldendoodles are prone to dental issues, including plaque buildup and gum disease, which can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, and other health problems. To maintain good oral health, it’s important to brush your Goldendoodle’s teeth regularly, ideally several times a week.

Use a toothbrush and toothpaste designed specifically for dogs. Never use human toothpaste, as it can be harmful to your pet. In addition to brushing, consider providing dental chews or toys that help keep your dog’s teeth clean and promote good oral health. Regular dental care is a simple way to keep your Goldendoodle’s smile bright and prevent more serious dental issues from arising.

Professional Grooming: When to Seek Help

While regular at-home grooming is essential, there may be times when your Goldendoodle requires professional grooming. Professional groomers are skilled at handling all aspects of grooming, including cutting and shaping your dog’s coat to maintain its best appearance. If you’re not comfortable with trimming your dog’s coat or nails, or if your Goldendoodle has become matted or tangled, a professional groomer can help.

In addition to cutting their coat, professional groomers can also perform more specialized care, such as deep cleaning the ears and trimming the paw pads. Regular visits to a professional groomer can help maintain your Goldendoodle’s coat in top condition, as well as ensure that they are properly groomed for their breed standards. Professional grooming can also be a great way to give your Goldendoodle a treat while ensuring they stay looking and feeling their best.

Grooming your Goldendoodle is an essential part of ensuring they live a long, happy, and healthy life. Regular grooming helps maintain their coat, skin, nails, and overall well-being. By understanding your Goldendoodle’s grooming needs and establishing a consistent grooming routine, you can ensure that they stay comfortable and well-cared-for. If you need help with grooming or are interested in learning more about Goldendoodle care, reach out to us today. We're here to support you and your furry companion every step of the way.