Labradoodle Tips and Tricks
Line Brushing Your Australian Labradoodle
Keeping your Australian Labradoodle properly groomed starts with correct line brushing. This essential technique prevents painful matting, supports healthy skin, and keeps fleece and wavy coats soft, manageable, and beautiful.
What Is Line Brushing?
Line brushing is a method of brushing the coat in small sections—starting at the skin and working outward. Unlike surface brushing, it removes tangles where mats actually form and ensures no hidden knots are left behind.
Tools You’ll Need
Slicker Brush: A long-pin slicker brush designed for doodle coats separates hair and removes tangles without damaging the coat.
Metal Grooming Comb: Used to confirm the coat is mat-free all the way to the skin.
Optional Detangling Spray: Reduces friction and makes brushing more comfortable.
How to Line Brush Properly
Start with a calm, dry coat. Begin at the feet or belly and lift a small section of hair. Brush downward from the skin outward, working in neat rows and moving up the body gradually. Pay close attention to high-mat areas such as behind the ears, under collars, armpits, and the tail base.
🔍 Comb Check: Don’t Skip This Step
After brushing each section, gently run the metal comb from the skin outward. If it glides smoothly, the coat is fully brushed. If it snags, continue brushing that section until the comb passes through easily.
How Often Should You Line Brush?
Puppies: 3–4 times per week during coat change
Adults: At least 1–2 times per week
Before bathing: Always line brush to prevent tightening mats
Hear Ye', Hear Ye'... Ear Cleaning is Important!
Bathing & Grooming Your Australian Labradoodle Puppy (12 Weeks to 6 Months)
Australian Labradoodles have beautiful, low-shedding coats that require early, consistent grooming. The period between 12 weeks and 6 months is critical for building healthy skin, preventing matting, and teaching your puppy that grooming is calm, safe, and positive.
Establishing the right routine now will make lifelong grooming much easier for both you and your dog.
How Often Should You Bathe an Australian Labradoodle Puppy?
Australian Labradoodle puppies should typically be bathed every 4–6 weeks, or sooner only if they become truly dirty. Over-bathing can dry out sensitive puppy skin and strip the coat of natural oils.
Between baths, keep your puppy clean by:
Brushing regularly
Spot cleaning with a warm, damp cloth
Using unscented puppy wipes for paws, faces, and accidents
Always use a gentle, tear-free puppy shampoo. Human shampoos or heavily scented products can irritate your puppy’s skin and coat.
Brushing: Essential for Preventing Matting
Brushing is the most important part of grooming an Australian Labradoodle. Even at a young age, their fleece or wool coat can begin to tangle close to the skin.
Brush at least 3–4 times per week, even daily if the coat is longer.
Recommended tools:
A slicker brush to remove loose hair and debris
A metal grooming comb to check for tangles all the way to the skin
Short, positive brushing sessions help your puppy learn to relax and cooperate, which is especially important as their adult coat starts to come in.
Nail Trimming & Paw Handling
Australian Labradoodle puppies’ nails grow quickly and should be trimmed every 2–3 weeks. Regular trimming prevents discomfort and helps maintain proper posture.
Tip: Touch and gently massage your puppy’s paws daily so nail trims become routine rather than stressful.
Ear, Eye, and Dental Care
Ears: Check weekly for redness, odor, or excessive wax. Clean only when needed using a vet-approved ear cleaner.
Eyes: Wipe gently with a soft, damp cloth to remove discharge.
Teeth: Begin introducing tooth brushing a few times per week using a puppy-safe toothbrush or finger brush.
Early care helps prevent infections and builds lifelong tolerance for handling.
Making Grooming a Positive Experience
Australian Labradoodles are intelligent and people-focused. Grooming should always feel safe and encouraging:
Keep sessions short and calm
Use treats and praise
Stop if your puppy becomes overwhelmed
Never force grooming. Consistency and patience build trust.
Preparing for Professional Grooming
Many Australian Labradoodles will begin professional grooming around 5–6 months of age. At home, you can prepare your puppy by:
Practicing standing calmly on a non-slip surface
Gently handling the face, ears, feet, and tail
Introducing the sound of clippers or dryers at a distance
This preparation helps ensure stress-free grooming visits later.
Final Thoughts
Proper grooming during the puppy months lays the foundation for a healthy coat and a confident adult Australian Labradoodle. With gentle care, consistent brushing, and positive experiences, grooming becomes a bonding time rather than a challenge.
