What do I really need for the arrival of my Labradoodle puppy?

Welcome home, sweet Labradoodle puppy! Your essential shopping list

The moment is almost here! You've received the wonderful news: the mating was successful, and soon an adorable Labradoodle puppy will enrich your life. Butterflies flutter happily in your stomach, and your mind is filled with fantasies about names, colors, and cuddling with your new companion. You'd love to empty the entire store right now with adorable baskets and toys. Just a little while longer! Before you get carried away by everything that seems good, it's wise to carefully consider what your future doodle truly needs . Believe me, many doodle owners have closets full of things that go unused or aren't even good for their furry companion.

What do you really need to take action on right away? Finding a good grooming salon! Good groomers for doodles are worth their weight in gold, and their schedules are often packed. So start searching for a salon near you right away.

Congratulations, you've found a groomer! Schedule a few "adjustment sessions" around 3, 4, and 5 months, followed by a trim approximately every 8 weeks. Hopefully, you've found a groomer who can not only cut your Doodle's coat beautifully but also take the time to explain the complexities of that beautiful, yet sometimes challenging, Doodle coat.

No grooming guru nearby, or would you rather take care of the grooming yourself? Then I have something great for you! In my webshop, you'll find a super interesting online training program packed with video tutorials. I'll teach you everything about brushing, table manners during grooming, and washing and drying your Doodle. Learning to groom yourself is also an option! My salon schedules are often full, so don't delay if you're considering a workshop or a longer program.

Have you found a good grooming salon or decided to tackle the coat care yourself? And have you got a good puppy class in mind? Then now's the time to look at the essential products for your Labradoodle's coat care.

Over the years, I've had hundreds of Doodles on my grooming table. I've helped many owners understand and care for their unique coats and advise them on the best products. When new puppy owners come to me for the first time, we've often already spoken on the phone or they've even visited the shop. This way, they know what to expect and already have the essential supplies – often carefully selected from my (online) shop.

Here's a step-by-step guide to the essential items you need to stock up on before your Labradoodle puppy arrives:

Step 1: The Power of the Water Blower

• What is it? A powerful hairdryer specially designed to blow water and loose hair out of the coat.
• Why do you need it? The water blower is indispensable! You use it not only after bathing, but also after a walk to check the coat for tangles, ticks, and other dirt. By regularly "blowing" the coat, you prevent tangles from forming and you don't need to brush intensively as often. In my webshop, you'll find a free video showing you exactly how to use the water blower effectively. Set it up in the area where you'll be grooming your dog, so you can check it after every walk.

Step 2: Gentle Start with a Puppy Brush

• What is it? A brush with soft bristles, ideal for sensitive puppy coats.
• Why do you need it? The first few months are all about getting used to it and creating a positive association with brushing. A soft puppy brush is perfect for getting your puppy used to touch and movement.

Step 3: The Indispensable Activet Brush

• What is it? A professional brush with flexible bristles that glide effortlessly through a Labradoodle's thicker coat.
• Why do you need it? The Activet brush is a game-changer for a doodle's coat. The green version is a good all-rounder. Does your doodle have a thick, curly coat? Then the purple version might be a better choice. This brush helps prevent tangles and effectively removes loose hair. You can find both versions in my webshop, of course!

Step 4: Check with the rake

• What is it? A comb with firm pins that penetrate deeper into the coat.
• Why do you need it? After brushing with Activet, use the rake to check for any small tangles or loose hairs, especially in tricky areas like the armpits and groin.

Step 5: A Clean Start with Shampoo, Conditioner & Coat Spray

• What is it? Specially developed dog shampoo, possibly with a conditioner for extra hydration, and a coat spray to make brushing easier.
• Why do you need it? Washing and drying will become a monthly routine that you and your doodle will need to get used to. Good products make this much more pleasant. The coat spray helps smooth the coat and reduce static electricity during brushing. In my webshop, you'll find mild shampoos and nourishing conditioners that are perfect for your pup's sensitive skin.

Step 6: Handy Drying Towel & Optional: Bathrobe

• What is it? An absorbent cloth to absorb most of the water after washing, and possibly a dog bathrobe.
• Why do you need it? A good drying towel significantly reduces drying time. A bathrobe can be handy to keep your Doodle warm and prevent him from shaking the whole room while drying. You can purchase a bathrobe when your pup is a bit older.

Step 7: Ear Comfort with a Hoodie

• What is it? A soft, elastic band that fits over your doodle's ears.
• Why do you need it? The sound of a water blower can be overwhelming for some dogs. A hoodie muffles the noise and absorbs moisture at the same time, making the drying process more comfortable for your pup.

Step 8: Precision Work with Small Scissors

• What is it? Small, safe scissors with (rounded) points.
• Why is it necessary? Between grooming sessions, you should trim the hair around the eyes and under the paws yourself. This prevents irritation and ensures your puppy can see clearly and doesn't slip.

Step 9: A Pleasant Workplace: The Coat Care Table

• What is it? A table at work height, perhaps a grooming table , or, in the beginning, a sturdy kitchen or dining table with a non-slip yoga mat on it.
• Why do you need it? A table at the right height relieves back strain and ensures your puppy is stable during grooming. This allows you to work more calmly and efficiently. Over time, you'll find that the basic setup is sufficient.

Step 10: Safety First in the Car

• What is it? A sturdy dog ​​bed , a special car crate, or a safe seat belt for dogs.
• Why do you need it? Your puppy's safety in the car is crucial. Always choose a well-fitting Y-harness combined with a seat belt, and avoid collars in the car due to the risk of serious injury in an emergency stop.

Step 11: Pest Protection

• What is it? Tick and flea products.
• Why do you need it? Protect your puppy from annoying and sometimes dangerous parasites from the start. I've written a separate blog post about this with more details.

Step 12: The First Collar/Harness & Leash

• What is it? A soft puppy collar or Y-harness and a matching leash.
• Why do you need it? The breeder usually provides you with a first set. After that, it's important to invest in a well-fitting harness or collar made of supple leather, as this causes the least damage to the coat.

Step 13: Healthy Food & Snacks

• What is it? Naturally, puppy food and healthy snacks.
• Why do you need it? A good foundation for your puppy's health starts with nutrition. Trust your breeder's advice (provided they're a reputable breeder). The salmon flakes I use in the salon are not only super healthy but also perfect as training treats during puppy classes . For safe gnawing and biting, I recommend coffee tree chewing root – a sustainable and natural option. The Reico food, which we partner with, is a healthy diet. For more information, fill out the form in the webshop. We'll work with a nutritionist to create a suitable menu for your Labradoodle.

Step 14: Basic Supplies: Water and Food Bowls & Toys

• What is it? Suitable bowls for water and food, and of course, fun, safe toys for your puppy.
• Why do you need it? Obviously! Make sure litter boxes are easy to clean and choose toys that are appropriate for your puppy's age and size.

The Shopping List in Brief:

• Water blower
• Soft puppy brush
• Activet brush (green, possibly purple)
• Rake
• Dog shampoo, conditioner (optional), coat spray
• Absorbent drying cloth
• Hoodie (ear protector)
• Small scissors with rounded tips
• Coat care table (or alternative)
• Dog basket, car crate or car seat belt
• Anti-tick and flea products
• Puppy collar and/or harness with leash
• Grain-free puppy food and healthy snacks (salmon chips, coffee tree chew root)
• Water and food bowl
• Safe toys

By stocking up on these essential items, you'll be well-prepared for the arrival of your Labradoodle puppy and will lay a solid foundation for a healthy, happy, and well-cared-for future together! Feel free to browse my online store, where you can order many of these high-quality products directly. Have any questions? Feel free to contact me! I'm happy to help you on this exciting adventure.