Why Do Doodles (Poodles Mixes) Get Matted So Easily?
If you’re a dog groomer or know someone who is, you’ve probably heard all about how Poodle mixes are the dogs that most frequently arrive matted to grooming appointments. I worked as the receptionist at a dog grooming salon in Florida, and a lot of the customers were Doodle owners. Many of the Doodles were so matted that the only safe way to groom them was to shave them down.
While part of that is likely due to owners not brushing their dogs enough, I’ve learned that the dog’s DNA might play a role too. So, why do Doodles get matted more easily than other dogs?
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What Exactly is a Doodle?
“Doodle” is the term used to describe Poodle mixes. The Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel/Poodle) was the first popular Poodle mix, but the term “Doodle” didn’t become popular until the Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever/Poodle) came around.
Today, there are mixes combining all types of breeds with Poodles. Everything from Bernese Mountain Dogs to Shih Tzus to Old English Sheepdogs. Unfortunately, these mixes are getting out of hand, and it’s common for these dogs to come from puppy mills due to their high demand and lack of breed standards.
Why Do Doodles Get Matted So Easily?
Preventative Vet explains that any dogs with longer coats and double coats can have matting, but Doodles are typically more prone to matting because they have a mix of two different coat types. Depending on the Poodle mix, some have two different high-maintenance coats combined, such as curly coats mixed with double coats.
A lack of brushing definitely plays a role in matted hair. But many Doodles still get matted even with regular brushing. That’s because breeding two very different dog breeds together can cause a wild variety of coats. Some Doodles may have very Poodle-like coats while others might have a straight coat from the other breed they’re mixed with. Then, some develop a weird combination of two coat types, making their coats get tangled very easily.
However, just because Doodles are prone to matting doesn’t mean you shouldn’t brush them. Brushing them every day can help prevent or reduce matting in their coats. If the matting gets too tight, shaving may end up being the only comfortable way to groom them.
Why Do Matted Doodles Need to Be Shaved?
It can be frustrating if your dog gets shaved at the groomer. But this is typically done for the dog’s safety.
Eno Animal Hospital explains that extreme matting is actually a medical condition. When the hair gets tightly knotted against the dog’s skin, it creates pressure on the skin. In extreme cases, this can cause bruising or even torn skin, which can be extremely painful for your dog. Mats can also trap bacteria and parasites inside the coat, increasing the risk of skin infections.
Since skin under matted fur is delicate, groomers must be careful. While some mats can be brushed out, sometimes shaving is the safest way to remove mats. Some Doodles might look silly after being shaved down, but it will make them much more comfortable. Besides, the hair will grow back.
If you’re concerned about your Doodle’s matting, talk to your groomer about how they can approach it. They can provide more details about the severity of your dog’s matting and whether the coat will need to be shaved.
Best Grooming Tools to Prevent Matted Doodles
Even though Poodle mixes are more likely to get matted than purebreds, it’s still important for their humans to prevent matting as much as possible. This involves regular brushing with the right grooming tools.
Below are some general recommendations, but remember that every mixed breed dog will have a unique coat. For personalized advice, talk to your groomer.
Slicker Brushes for Doodles
Slicker brushes have rows of fine wire pins that help brush through curly coats to reduce matting. Make sure you’re using this brush on both the top and bottom layers of hair. Here are some popular slicker brushes:
Combs for Doodles
Combs can help Doodle parents find mats in their dogs' coats. If the comb gets stuck instead of gliding smoothly across the fur, that indicates a mat that needs to be brushed out with a slicker brush. Here are some dog combs:
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Get Mats Out of a Doodle?
If you spot a mat when combing your Doodle, use a slicker brush to loosen it. Use gentle, short strokes to gradually brush out the mat. If it’s too tight, it likely needs to be shaved and/or handled by a professional groomer.
How Often Do Doodles Need a Professional Grooming?
Doodles typically need a professional grooming every 4 to 8 weeks. The exact frequency depends on your dog’s coat type and how well you maintain their coat between grooming appointments. If you’re unsure how often they need grooming, ask your groomer.
Are Doodles Hypoallergenic?
No, Doodles aren’t 100% hypoallergenic. Since Doodles are a mix of Poodle and another breed, their coat types can vary and some might shed. Even if a Doodle doesn’t shed at all, some people might still have reactions to dander and saliva.
Is There a Way to Ethically Get a Doodle?
Yes, you can ethically get a Doodle through rescue, shelter, and rehome situations. Getting a Doodle from a breeder is typically considered unethical because Doodle breeders don’t have breed standards to follow and are typically doing it more for profit than anything else.
Doodles Require Lots of Grooming!
Poodle mixes tend to get matted more easily than other dogs due to their mix of coat types, but it isn’t impossible to keep them healthy and well-groomed. Brush them regularly with a slicker brush and use a comb to check for mats. That way, you’ll reduce the risk of painful mats that need to be shaved out of your dog’s coat.
As cute as Doodles are, make sure to be cautious if you’re looking to get one. Many Doodle breeders are puppy mills that are great at disguising themselves, so I always recommend only going to rescues and shelters if you’re looking for a mixed breed dog. I’ve been seeing a lot of Doodles at shelters and rescues lately due to breeder surrenders and people who are unable to care for their Doodles.
