Doodle is a coat type, not one breed
Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Bernedoodle, Sheepadoodle, Aussiedoodle. What they share is the Poodle side of the family, and that is the part that matters in the salon. A Poodle cross grows hair continuously instead of shedding it, so the dead hair stays in the coat instead of falling on your floor. It has to go somewhere, and where it goes is into mats.
This is why Doodle owners are the most common people to hear bad news at a grooming salon. It is not carelessness. It is a coat that punishes a two week gap in brushing, and almost nobody is told that when they buy the puppy.
The three Doodle coats
Wavy or fleece
The most common. Soft, loose waves. Mats behind the ears, in the armpits and on the legs first. Needs a full comb through to the skin two or three times a week.
Curly or wool
Closest to the Poodle. Dense and springy, and the fastest to lock up. It hides mats completely, so the coat can look fluffy while it is solid underneath.
Straight or hair
Closest to the Retriever side. Lower maintenance and it sheds a little, but it still needs regular trims around the face, feet and sanitary areas.
The coat change
Between eight and fourteen months the puppy coat gives way to the adult coat. This is when most Doodles mat badly, because the loose puppy hair tangles into the new coat. Brush more, not less, during this window.
What we do for Doodles
- Line brushing to the skin, not just over the top of the coat
- Bath and full blow-dry, which is where the curl is set
- Teddy bear face, or the style you ask for, finished with scissors
- Feet, sanitary areas and the belly tidied
- Ears cleaned and plucked if needed, which Doodles need more than most
- Nails trimmed, with dremel smoothing on request
- An honest report on where the coat is starting to tighten
- A realistic brushing plan for the next six weeks
The honest conversation about shaving
If a Doodle arrives with mats flat against the skin, brushing them out is not the kind thing to do. It pulls on the skin for hours and leaves the dog sore and afraid of the next appointment. The kind thing is a shorter cut, and letting the coat grow back healthy while you get on top of the brushing.
We will always show you the areas, explain the two options and let you choose. What we will not do is start a four hour de-matting session without telling you first.
Your Doodle, specifically
We have pages with the schedule and styles we recommend for Goldendoodles and Labradoodles, and for the Poodle side of the family. Bernedoodles, Sheepadoodles and Aussiedoodles are all welcome, and the plan follows the coat, not the name.
From a Doodle owner in Lowell
The way they care for my Doodle Charlie is incredible! They are literally the best in the area! Charlie always gets really excited for grooming day! I strongly suggest Taiza to everyone!
I took my dog here to be groomed for the first time and he loved it! They took their time and made him so comfortable. He went in wagging his tail and smiling and did the same when I picked him up. We can't wait to be back for christmas pictures!
How to book
- Message (978) 364-1330 on WhatsApp with a recent photo of your Doodle.
- Tell us the last groom date and the length you want to keep.
- We confirm the service, the price and a time.
- Or call (978) 323-9561, or use the booking form.
Keep reading
Frequently asked questions
How often does a Doodle need grooming?
Every four to six weeks for a full groom, and brushing to the skin two or three times a week between visits. Stretching to eight or ten weeks is the single most common reason a Doodle ends up needing a short cut.
Can you do a teddy bear cut?
Yes, it is the most requested Doodle style here. It needs a coat that is in good condition, because the rounded face and legs only work when there is enough healthy hair to shape. Bring a photo of what you have in mind.
Why did the last groomer shave my Doodle?
Almost always because the mats were flat against the skin. Brushing those out takes hours and hurts the dog, and it can leave the skin raw. A short cut is the humane option in that situation. The fix is not a different groomer, it is more frequent brushing and a shorter gap between appointments.
What brush should I use at home?
A slicker brush plus a metal comb. The comb is the important one: if it will not pass from the skin outward in every area, the coat is matting even if it looks fine on top. Check behind the ears, the armpits and the back legs first.
Do you groom mini and standard Doodles?
Both, and everything in between. Size changes the time and the price, not the technique. Tell us the weight when you book so we allocate the right slot.
Book with CatDog Grooming Salon
Rated 5.0 on Google. Call (978) 323-9561, message (978) 364-1330 on WhatsApp, or use the booking form. We serve you in English and Portuguese.
Book an appointmentFind us
684 Lakeview Ave, Lowell, MA 01850. Monday to Saturday, by appointment. Free parking at the door.