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Understanding Australian Labradoodle’s Coat
Australian Labradoodles come in three main coat types: wool, fleece, and hair. Each coat type looks and feels different, so it’s important to understand the differences between them.
Fleece-
The fleece coat has some variation in texture- it can be wavy to curly and is soft and silky. This is an easy to manage, textured coat.
Wool-
The wool coat is most like a poodle in texture. Wool coats tend to be the curliest and require regular grooming and combing to prevent mats.
Hair-
The hair type is typically straight, most closely resembling the Labrador coat. This coat is the least allergy friendly of the coat types and can shed in varying degrees.
Most dog breeds can get downright SMELLY! Thankfully, Australian Labradoodles are not your typical dog. Generally, labradoodles should be bathed a few times per month to keep them looking clean and smelling fresh. A good rule of thumb is to do a light trim and brush every 2-3 times per week and trips to the groomer for a more in-depth grooming every four to six weeks.
Brushing does more than help keep your pup looking adorable – regular brushing is necessary to keep tangles from forming that could cause your pet discomfort.
Bath Time
Give your dog a full body brush before bathing to remove any stubborn tangles, as knots and tangles will tighten when wet and become harder to get out.
Use shampoo specifically formulated for your dog’s hair type. We recommend Life’s Abundance Revitalizing Shampoo, available here.
Towel dry as much as possible before blow drying fully. We recommend using this conditioning spray after their bath or between baths to keep your dog smelling fresh.
Lightly brush again once dry, paying close attention to areas prone to matting, such as the ears, chest and hindquarters.
Moisture in the ears can also cause infection, so be sure to get the ears as dry as possible.
What tools do I need?
Brushes
Brushing out tangles is half the battle when it comes to grooming Australian Labradoodles! Brushes are a must, but how do you know which type is best for your pet? Speak to your groomer about the best brush for your pet’s hair type. Some trial and error may be needed to find which brush works best for your dog as some dogs can be more sensitive than others. We recommend this brush for de-shedding and de-matting.
Clippers
Keeping a good quality set of clippers on hand can do wonders for keeping the masses of thick curly fur in check. Corded clippers tend to be used more by professionals as they are powerful and long lasting. Cordless clippers are a popular option for at home cuts, as they are portable and easier to maneuver around your pet.
Scissors
Good quality hair scissors are a necessity.
Extras
Nail clippers/grinders
If you are up for the task and your pup cooperates, keeping a pair of nail clippers or a grinder at home will help keep their nails short and neat between grooming appointments. We recommend this grinder tool. Be careful not to trim too short when clipping or grinding as this will cut into the quick and cause discomfort.
Tweezers
Tweezers can come in handy when removing hair from your pets’ ears (see below!)
Labradoodles can be prone to ear infections, so ear cleaning is necessary to avoid any discomfort. We recommend using a gentle ear wash like this one to keep ears free from irritating wax build up. Their hair grows deep within the ear canal, so any wax or dirt buildup can cause an infection. Thankfully, this is easily preventable by removing as much of the inner ear hair as possible, about every six weeks. Your groomer will be able to do this for you, but if you need to do so in between grooming appointments you can simply use your fingers, tweezers, or a hemostat.
How often should my Australian Labradoodle be groomed?
Brushing- daily brushing is recommended, or 3-4 times per week.
Bathing – this will vary depending on your lifestyle. Some Australian Labradoodles will need to be bathed each week; others can go several weeks in between baths.
Trim- every 6-8 weeks
Ear hair trims- every 6-8 weeks
Nail trim- 1-2 times per week
If your doodles hair is getting too long over their eyes between grooming appointments, we recommend trimming around the eyes. Brush the hair on their head above the eyes forward and cut an inverted V shape to expose the eyes. Thinning shears can help to blend the hair.
***For a more in-depth grooming guide, check out the ALAA grooming video here and save the reference guide from WALA below to refer to.
Conclusion
Time and cost are factors that must be a consideration for all Australian Labradoodle owners. Luckily, with the right tools (and a little patience) you can keep your pet always looking and feeling its best!