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Coat Type Guide

Curly Coat Dog Grooming

Curly-coated breeds like Poodles, Bichon Frises, and the ever-popular "Doodle" mixes have coats that grow continuously and don't shed traditionally — instead, loose hair gets trapped in the curls, forming mats. These coats are high maintenance: skip grooming and you'll be facing a complete shave-down.

🪥
Daily
Brushing required
✂️
4-6 weeks
Grooming appointment cycle
💵
$80-150
Per grooming session
⚠️
Very High
Maintenance level

🐾 Common curly coat Dog Breeds

PoodleBichon FriseGoldendoodleLabradoodlePortuguese Water DogIrish Water SpanielLagotto Romagnolo

🧰Tools You'll Need

Slicker brushMetal combClippersThinning shears

📋 Step-by-Step Guide

1

Brush daily to prevent mats - curly coats mat easily

2

Use line brushing technique: part hair and brush layer by layer

3

Check behind ears, legs, and armpits for hidden mats

4

Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks is essential

5

Keep coat at a manageable length if you cannot maintain daily brushing

6

Never bathe a matted dog - water tightens mats

💡 Expert Advice

Daily Brushing or Short Haircuts

There's no middle ground with curly coats. Either commit to daily line brushing, or keep the coat clipped short (1/2 inch or less) for manageable maintenance.

Line Brushing Technique

Part the coat, brush one layer at a time down to the skin. Surface brushing leaves mats hidden underneath — the "iceberg" problem.

Never Bathe When Matted

Water causes mats to tighten into solid masses near the skin. Always fully brush out before bathing.

Regular Professional Grooming

Every 4-6 weeks is necessary, not optional. Waiting 8-12 weeks often means the groomer has no choice but to shave.

📅Grooming Schedule

Recommended Frequency: Daily brushing, grooming every 4-6 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Poodles and Doodles really "low shedding"?▼
They shed less visibly because loose hair gets trapped in curls instead of falling on your floor. But this means it mats into the coat if not brushed out regularly. "Low shedding" doesn't mean "low maintenance" — it means the opposite!
Why did my groomer have to shave my dog?▼
Matting. When mats are close to the skin, there's no safe way to brush them out — it would be painful and damage skin. The only humane option is to clip beneath the mats. Prevention: regular brushing and more frequent grooming appointments.
What length should I keep my curly-coated dog?▼
If you can commit to daily brushing: any length you want. If you brush a few times a week: 1 inch or less is realistic. If you brush weekly: keep it very short (1/2 inch). Be honest about your maintenance commitment!
How do I find a good groomer for my Doodle?▼
Ask specifically about their experience with curly/double coats. Look for groomers who require appointments every 4-6 weeks (not 8-12). Discuss your lifestyle honestly so they can recommend an appropriate length. Good groomers will educate you on home maintenance.

Need More Grooming Advice?

Our AI can help with specific grooming questions for your dog's breed and coat type.

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