Importance of Grooming Your Poodle Cross At Home
October 4th, 2022 in News & Blogs
In recent years, the UK has seen a dramatic increase in the popularity of poodle cross breeds, which are bred to be friendly, people-orientated and energetic. What many first-time poodle cross owners are not made aware of is the frequent grooming required to keep their low-shedding, curly and knotted coats maintained. Poodle crosses, otherwise known as ‘doodles’, that require high maintenance grooming include cockapoos, labradoodles, goldendoodles, schnoodles and maltipoos.
It is crucial to maintain the coat of all breeds that do not shed naturally. Poodle crosses in particular are severely prone to matting, tangles and knots, which can cause their skin to become extremely tight and sore. If owners do not brush their dog in between grooming appointments, they run the risk of extreme matting and groomers can often have no other choice but to shave the dog down to their skin, to avoid major discomfort and pain that would be caused by trying to work the tangles out.
How to Groom your Poodle Cross at Home
Step 1: Comb the coat using a stainless steel comb to locate tangles and matts. We recommend to comb the coat when it’s dry, as tangles become tighter and harder to remove when wet. Drag the comb around the entire coat, working from head to tail, brushing in the direction of hair growth. When the comb encounters a tangle or matt, move to Step 2.
Step 2: Using a brush, gently brush out each tangle or matt. Apply an anti-tangle spray to help work through the tangled areas. Continue brushing until the coat is shiny and soft and there are no remaining knots or tangles. This usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
How Often you should Groom your Poodle Cross
If your poodle cross has tight, curly hair, we recommend brushing daily. Alternatively, if your dog has a straight or flat coat, we recommend to brush the coat 4 – 5 times a week. The more brushing and coat maintenance you do at home, the easier it will become. Building a daily routine of brushing will drastically reduce the risk of having to have your poodle cross shaved when you next take them to the groomers.
Poodles crosses need to be taken to a grooming salon every 6 – 8 weeks to maintain a healthy length coat, alongside brushing at home. It is important to be aware that some reputable groomers will run a comb through the dog’s coat whilst booking the dog in and if the comb doesn’t go through the fur smoothly (i.e the coat is tangled/matted), then the groomer will ask the owner to sign T&Cs to make them aware that the groomer may have no other choice but to shave their dog.
Poodle Cross Grooming Tools
Basic poodle cross grooming equipment includes a standard brush and a comb. You don’t have to spend a fortune and generally, you only have to purchase them once as they will last years.
Comb
Mutneys 7” All Metal Combi Comb is ideal for breeds with longer hair and has anti-static coating for durability and rust resistance.
Brush
Mutneys universal non-slip hard pin slicker brush is perfect for grooming through poodle mix coats.
Anti-Tangle Spray
Mutneys Anti-Tangle Spray is a light but effective aid to eliminate knots and matts, with a refreshing watermelon scent. Simply spray liberally onto the trouble spots and work through the area with a brush or comb. For best results, use in conjunction with Mutneys Anti-Tangle Shampoo, which is specifically formulated to reduce tangles, knots and matts.
Top Tip! If you’re looking to grab some products to groom your poodle crosses at home, why not try Mutneys Home Dog Grooming De-Tangling Kits. This great value pack contains all the must-have products when it comes to keeping your dog’s skin and hair healthy, properly maintained and under control. Perfect for curly coated breeds including Poodles, Poodle crosses (Cockapoos, Cavapoos, Goldendoodles, Schnoodles etc.), Cocker Spaniels, Bichon Frise, Shih Tzu and Cavaliers.
Tips to Groom your Poodle Crosses
- Ensure you have plenty of dog treats ready, especially whilst you are still finding a daily routine so your dog positively associates getting groomed.
- Have patience. The first time you brush your dog may be hard as the coat will probably be tangled / matted, but don’t worry it gets easier! Always remember, the more often you brush, the easier it will be next time. Try get into a routine and think about integrating brushing your dog into your daily life (i.e. whilst you’re waiting for the kettle to boil for example).
- Always brush in the direction of hair growth
- Using anti-tangle spray will significantly help to loosen knots and tangles, which will help speed up the process
- It’s a good idea to get into a routine of brushing at home
Q&A
What age should I start grooming my poodle cross?
As soon as you bring it home. It is important for puppies to be exposed to grooming equipment early to introduce them to the feel of brushes / combs. Puppies coats should not be trimmed, but they should be brushed, combed and bathed.
It’s vital for your dog to become desensitised to the sights, sounds and smells of a dog grooming salon. Educating and exposing your puppy to grooming from an early age helps their development and overall wellbeing.
If you have an older dog who has not received regular and positive exposure to being brushed from a puppy, it’s understandable that your dog may not enjoy being groomed. Groomers will be more than happy to give you free advice on ways to train your dog to associate being brushed as a positive experience. You can always ring Mutneys on 01948 841 470 and our team of industry experts will be happy to help answer any questions you may have!
How to start looking for a dog groomer?
The dog grooming industry has a range of qualifications designed to recognise and build skills. A ‘level 3’ dog grooming diploma qualification demonstrates they have the skills and knowledge required to be capable and skilled groomer. Any reputable groomer will be willing to show you their certificates if you ask.
Tips to find a reputable groomer:
- Research local reputable groomers on Groomers Spotlight
- Speak to your vets, as they may also be able to recommend groomers
- Ask your friends and family, for any recommendations
- Look if any of Mutneys brand ambassadors are based nearby!
- Download the Tuft app to find, book and review a dog groomer in your area