The art of grooming – how to groom your Labradoodle

As a proud Labradoodle owner, you know the importance of a well-groomed coat. Grooming a Doodle can be quite daunting, especially in the beginning. Don't worry! In this blog post, I'll explain step-by-step how to groom your Labradoodle , when to start, and how often it's wise to do it.

How do you trim a Labradoodle?

Grooming a Labradoodle can be done with scissors or clippers with attachment combs. For most owners—especially those without experience—clippers are easiest. They allow you to work faster, safer, and more evenly.

I use different attachment combs, depending on the length I want to keep. My favorite lengths are 22, 25, and 32 mm – they give the natural, fluffy look typical of the Doodle. But… does your Doodle often run through the woods or like to swim? Then a shorter length of 13 or 16 mm is more practical and easier to keep clean.

Tip: Always use the right tools and, if possible, take a grooming lesson—online at buddhasdoodleshop.com or one-on-one at the grooming salon. With the right technique, grooming will not only be easier but also more fun for you and your Doodle.

How often should you groom a Labradoodle?

The frequency depends on the coat type and your grooming routine. On average, I recommend trimming every six weeks .

Just starting out? Trim more often: every three to four weeks. This way, you and your Doodle will get used to the process, and the coat will stay tangle-free more easily. Over time, you can extend the intervals slightly.

Note: Never leave more than six weeks between cuts. The coat grows back quickly, and the longer you wait, the harder it will be to get the shape back into shape.

How short should you trim a Labradoodle?

That depends on how often you trim.

• If you trim every 10 weeks, the coat needs to be trimmed shorter—especially around the head and legs—to cover that period.
• If you trim more often (3 to 6 weeks), the coat can stay a little longer.

There's no single perfect length—it's about what's both practical and comfortable for your dog. A coat that's too long might look nice, but tangles are definitely not pleasant for your dog (and for you during grooming!).

How long does it take to groom a Labradoodle?

That varies by dog, coat, and experience. For my own Australian Labradoodle, Buddha, a full grooming session—including brushing , washing, and drying —takes about two hours .

Some Doodles, however, can easily take up to three hours , especially if they're still a bit wobbly on the table or have a thick coat. My advice: don't leave your Doodle on the table for longer than three hours. If necessary, split it over two days—for example, wash and dry on day one, groom on day two. This way, it stays relaxed and safe for both of you.

When should you first groom a Labradoodle?

A frequently asked question! It's best to schedule the first grooming session around 6 months . This is when the shedding process begins – a period in which the puppy coat transitions to the adult coat, and tangles suddenly develop much more quickly.

It's not necessary to actually cut earlier, but it's smart to practice early on:

• Standing on the table
• The hair dryer and clipper sounds
• Short "getting used to" sessions with brushing and touching

This way, your puppy learns that grooming is something normal and enjoyable. A relaxed Doodle = an easy groom!

After the first proper trim, you can help your Doodle by continuing to brush the coat well , especially behind the ears, armpits and around the paws – that is where most tangles occur.

Remember: keeping the coat tangle-free is your responsibility as the owner, not the groomer's. Regular brushing and timely trimming will prevent stress and discomfort for your dog.

Grooming is truly a skill you can learn. With a little patience, love, and the right tools, it becomes a beautiful ritual between you and your Doodle. And believe me: the more you practice, the better it will be – for both of you .

Do you have any questions or would you like to learn more about grooming techniques or tools? Feel free to contact us. We're happy to help!