Labradoodles have grown in popularity since first being bred; initially, to make they are hypoallergenic guide dogs. This mix of poodle and Labrador retriever resulted in a smart, friendly dog with a low shedding coat.
This makes them an ideal breed for many people with allergies and sensitivities. Either way, if you are wondering how to groom a labradoodle you’ll be pleased you stop by.
I decided to conduct some research into the best way to do it and some important relevant information. I’ll be outlining all below.
Any labradoodle owner must know how to groom a labradoodle; it is not easy; you must understand what you are doing.
If your labradoodle inherits the genetic traits of the poodle parent, he is likely to have a coat that is dense and curly – this coat is known as “fleece” or “wool.”
If, on the other hand, this puppy should inherit the traits of his Labrador parent, he is likely to inherit a seasonal shedding coat that is known as “hair.”
Let us now take a closer look at the variations and how you would proceed with either type of coat.
The Labradoodle Coat
Labradoodles come in a variety of coats that include fleece, wool, and hair coats
These coats have different attributes, which means that each coat has different grooming requirements.
The coat type will determine how much the dog will shed and how often it needs brushing.
Let’s look at the different labradoodle coats in better detail:
- Fleece Coats –is soft in texture and will appear either as a straight wavy or a soft spiralling curl look. This coat is generally easy to manage and take care of. It is also great for allergy sufferers.
- Wool Coats – Has the poodle texture and appearance. It will require more regular grooming and combing, and you’ll need to be on top of it to prevent matting.
- Hair Coats – Is more likely to smell and can shed more than the other two coats. It is similar in look, feel and appearance to that of a Labrador. It requires the most maintenance and is not considered ideal for allergy suffers. Labradoodles with this coat are often from early generations; such as from the first litter of a lab and poodle breeding.
How Often Should You Groom A Labradoodle?
When a labradoodle becomes an adult, their coat will transform from a fuzzy, short puppy coat into a full adult coat. It is only when a labradoodle becomes an adult that you can know for sure what his full coat will become and how often you must groom his coat.
Generally speaking, Labradoodles with fleece coats only require a thorough brushing and combing twice a week.
High shedding Labradoodles require more frequent brushing and combing during periods of seasonal shedding.
During times of high shedding, Labradoodles with hair coats may require daily grooming.
Shave your Labradoodle’s body twice a year, trim the face, tail, and feet about once a month.
The ears need special attention, particularly hair inside and outside the ear canal, as the hair clogs and cause ear infections.
The hair around and inside the ears requires trimming every 2 to 3 months.
Nails require clipping every 4 to 6 weeks. If you are apprehensive about clipping your dogs nails yourself, a professional groomer can take care of the nails for you.
Labradoodles do not require frequent bathing; you can bathe your pooch as little as once every 1-2 months. This is usually when they get a bit smelly.
Thankfully with this breed, even when if they get muddy, the mud dries and tends to fall out.
When bathing your labradoodle, be sure to use a dog-friendly shampoo. This is an ideal shampoo for labradoodles on Amazon.
It is free from a lot of harsh chemicals present in shampoos designed for humans, and will ensure your dogs skin does not dry out, become irritated and itch.
Should You Shave A Labradoodle?
Shaving or not shaving a Labradoodle’s coat is entirely up to the preference of the owner.
Many like a natural style after grooming their dog and shaving a dog completely can be quite of a shock at first.
If you are looking for ideas on haircuts, there are many styles available online. If you see a picture you like, print it out and hand it to a professional groomer or try to recreate the style yourself.
You can choose to shave the entire body of your Labradoodle twice a year, leaving only the head, feet, and tail (you can trim these by hand more frequently).
How To Groom A Labradoodle Step By Step
Grooming your labradoodle regularly will go a long way to helping them feel more comfortable and content.
It also serves as a good opportunity to spoil your dog and give them some much needed time and attention. Always view grooming as an opportunity to bond with your dog.
Tools and Supplies Required
When it comes to Labradoodle grooming supplies, there are some essentials you must have to get you started. These will all be used in the step by step how to guide that will shortly follow below.
Here are the grooming tools you will need:
Tool #1: A Slicker Brush
These brushes are excellent at locating and working out mats and tangles without causing any discomfort to your labradoodle.
You must find a long-pin brush with angled pins for grooming to be successful. These brushes are ideal for tackling undercoats.
This Slicker Brush on Amazon is a bestseller and highly reviewed favorite among labradoodle owners.
Tool# 2: An Undercoat Rake
These are used to remove shed hair and dirt very quickly from your dog’s coat. With regular use they will prevent any matting.
You need to ensure that you get one designed to prevent irritation to your dogs skin.
The PawsPamper Undercoat Rake is the go to choice on Amazon.
Tool #3: Pet-Safe Steel Comb
Labradoodles have dense coats, which makes it easy to miss mats and tangles. Pet combs will tackle the unruliest of knots.
You must get a good quality stainless steel comb that has narrow pins on one end and wider pins on the other end – this helps you to groom larger and smaller sections on your dog’s body and face.
This one on Amazon is ideal.
Tool #4: Trimming Shears/Clippers
These are ideal for shaving your dogs coat, and also trimming hair on the ears and paws, as well as the hair on the hindquarters.
Trimming shears/clippers are excellent at trimming hair that could hinder your dog’s vision.
This is the most cost-effective, best-reviewed product on Amazon in this category.
Tool #5: Detangling Spray
This helps you to safely work out mats and tangles on your dog’s coat without pulling on their skin.
Getting one that is conditioning and soothing at the same time is ideal. You’ll also want to ensure that it is free from any nasty chemicals.
BarkLogic, from Amazon, is my go-to here.
Let us now explore how you will use these tools and groom your labradoodle yourself, from the comfort of your own home.
While all these tools may seem expensive at first, consider that not only is this kind of investment to be expected with a breed like a labradoodle; but the cost of a professional groomer will likely cost you more in just 1-2 sessions!
Step #1: Inspecting
Always begin by first giving your dog a full-body stroke, feeling around and inspecting them.
This is a good time to take a look at their bodies, coat and limbs.
You can have a feel to see if anything has changed, or if any lumps, bumps, wounds, scratches or areas of dry skin are present
Step #2: Remove Shed Hair And Dirt With a De-matting Rake
It might take more than a few goes to get to grips with the undercoat using the rake.
A good quality rake will be effective at removing excess hair and dirt without pulling on your pup’s coat or skin. We advise you opt for the one mentioned above
Step #3: Spritz The Coat With A Detangling Spray
Lightly and evenly spritz the detangler over your dog’s body. If you encounter tangles in the hair, spray more detangler to help work them out.
Make sure that you shield your dog’s eyes to avoid irritating.
Step #4: Use A Slicker Brush To Brush Your Dogs Coat
If you are new to grooming a Labradoodle, it is best to start with the feet, brushing out one section until it is smooth.
Continue to brush section by section, stopping to brush out tangles as you find them.
You can use a broad slicker brush on your dog’s body and a smaller one for his face and legs.
When you start using a slicker brush you’ll never turn back; they are immensely effective and practical.
Step #5: Comb Out Your Dogs Coat
Once you are done using the slicker brush, you must comb out your dog’s coat.
This tool will help you work out those stubborn tangles you may have missed while using the slicker brush.
Spritz detangler spray when you come across additional knots, and brush them out with the slicker brush.
Make sure that there are no knots left by running the come over the area one last time.
Step #6: Trim Your Dog’s Coat With Scissors
Gently trim around the areas of your dog that appear overgrown and are causing discomfort or nuisance (such as around the eyes).
If you do not feel at ease trimming your dog’s hair at home, you can research online – there are many YouTuve videos to learn from and replicate.
Failing this, you can ask a professional dog groomer for a lesson; they will be more than happy to assist you.
Step #7: Check Other Areas That Require Maintenance
There are always additional health and hygiene tasks to be carried out such as, checking and cleaning your dogs ears, brushing their teeth, and trimming their nails.
When it comes to nails, investing in a nail grinder is advised. This is the one I recommend.
Be sure to use products that are safe for dogs, and be thorough yet gentle when cleaning.
You want to ensure that there is no buildup of wax in the ears, buildup of plaque on the teeth etc.
Grooming wipes and Dental Toys are excellent choices here.
Finally
Grooming a Labradoodle is not easy; it is very involved and time-consuming.
On the bright side, it’s an excellent way to bond with your dog and save a lot of money in the process.
Sure, some of these tools may be expensive upfront, but you need to see them as an investment in the health and welfare of your dog.
Not only that, the price of grooming will soon help you see that it is actually a much more cost-effective approach!
Labradoodles love being fussed over, and you will enjoy choosing styles to suit your dog’s personality.
Every Labradoodle owner must learn how to groom their Labradoodle properly, even if it means asking for a tutorial from a professional groomer.
With numerous different types of coat, and with plenty of different factors in play, its important that you research as much as you can and always be sure to use the right tools for the job.
Ultimately, a well-groomed dog is a healthy and happy dog. It will also mean your home and general living environment is a lot more clean and hygienic too!
Related Questions
On average, taking your labradoodle to a professional dog groomer will cost you between $50-$75 per session for a full service. A mobile dog groomer, who will visit your property, can cost anywhere between $75-$100+ for a full service. Lastly, you can take your labradoodle to a self-service facility for around $10-$20 (but you’ll need to take your own supplies). You can also pay for individual services, like nail clipping and these will come with their own costs and charges.
It is generally expected that you tip your dog groomer 10-20% of the service total. While these are considered appreciation tips, many professional dog groomers look for tips as a way to offset the many fees they need to pay. Sometimes, a groomer will throw in extra services at no cost, such as cutting nails or brushing teeth.
Other grooming guides you may want to check out:
- How Long Does A Dog Grooming Take?
- Do You Tip Dog Groomers? [Is It Typical & Expected?]
- Dog Groomer Tip Calculator [How Much You Should Offer]
- 13 Gifts For Dog Groomers To Show Your Appreciation

I am an experienced pet owner with decades of experience owning a number of different pets, from traditional pets like dogs and cats, to the more exotic like reptiles and rodents. I currently own a Cockapoo (pictured) called Bailey. I am also the main writer and chief editor here at Pet Educate; a site dedicated to sharing evidence-based insights and guidance, based on my vast pet ownership knowledge, experience, and extensive research.