You know how every summer there’s that one friend who insists they don’t need sunscreen, then two hours later they’re red as a lobster? That’s kind of what skipping a good brush is like for doodle dogs. Sure, their coat looks fine for a bit. But underneath? Mats, tangles, and a whole lot of “what on earth is living in there?” So what’s the best dog brush for doodles?
If you’ve ever run your hand through your doodle’s curls only to hit a knot the size of a small walnut, you know exactly what I mean. Finding the best dog brush for doodles isn’t just about looks, it’s about comfort, health, and keeping your pup from giving you the side-eye every time you pull out the grooming kit.
So grab your iced coffee (or hot if you’re one of those people who sticks with hot coffee even in July), and let’s talk brushes, doodles, and how to keep those curls in check.
Why Doodles Are in a League of Their Own
Poodles, Goldendoodles, Cavapoos, Maltipoos-doodles come in all shapes, sizes, and coat types. Some have tight corkscrew curls, others sport loose waves, and a few look like they’re rocking 90s crimped hair. But here’s the kicker: no matter the curl type, doodle coats don’t shed much.
That’s where the best dog brush for doodles comes in. A good brush keeps mats from forming, distributes natural oils, and makes your dog’s coat look like it belongs in a shampoo commercial. A bad brush? Well, it’ll just sit in a drawer gathering dust while you wrestle with a mess of knots.
The Gold Standard: Slicker Brushes- Which ones are the best dog brush for Doodles?
If doodles had a hall of fame, the slicker brush would be first ballot. These brushes have fine, bent wires that reach deep into the coat, pulling out tangles before they become mats. The key is finding one with slightly flexible pins so you don’t scratch your dog’s skin.
A couple of cult favorites:
- Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush – Groomers swear by this one for doodle coats. It’s pricey but lasts forever.
- Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker – More budget-friendly, and the button to release hair is a lifesaver.
If you only buy one brush, make it a slicker. Seriously.
Comb It Out: The Unsung Hero
Think of the comb as the detail brush, like the tiny paintbrush artists use for the final touches. After brushing with a slicker, run a stainless steel grooming comb through your doodle’s coat. If it glides through smoothly, you’re golden. If it snags, well… time to go back with the slicker.
I like Andis Steel Grooming Comb because it’s sturdy and affordable. Plus, it feels like you’re actually getting somewhere instead of just fluffing the surface.
Dematting Tools: For When Things Get Real
Confession: even the best brushers among us end up with mats sometimes. Life happens. Your dog rolled in wet grass, missed a brushing session (or three), or decided their favorite nap spot is under the sprinkler. When that happens, a dematting rake can be your best friend.
These tools have sharp blades that carefully cut through mats without taking off half the coat. Safari De-Matting Comb is a solid option that doesn’t break the bank.
Current Trend: Grooming as Self-Care (for Both of You)
Here’s the fun part, grooming doodles is trending right now not just as a chore but as a bonding ritual. TikTok is full of doodle owners showing off “spa days” where dogs get brushed while listening to lo-fi beats. Sounds silly, but honestly? It works. Brushing can be meditative for you and relaxing for your dog if you approach it like self-care instead of another box to check.
And in a world where people are burning out on constant screens, there’s something sweet about spending twenty minutes brushing curls while unplugged.
About Storytail Dogs
At Storytail Dogs, we believe a well-brushed doodle is a happy doodle. As an ethical Cavapoo breeder in Pennsylvania and ethical Maltipoo breeder in Pennsylvania, we put just as much emphasis on socialization and early grooming as we do on temperament and health. Our puppies grow up used to handling, brushing, and all the little rituals that make life easier once they’re home. We don’t just match puppies to families, we prepare them for real life, whether that’s curling up with your kids for storytime or heading to the groomer without drama.
You can see our available puppies here.
Quick Tips to Make Brushing Easier: Best dog brush for Doodles
- Always brush in sections. Pretend you’re styling your doodle for the red carpet, layer by layer.
- Reward with treats. A little peanut butter on a lick mat goes a long way.
- Stay consistent. Ten minutes a few times a week beats an hour-long mat-busting session.
Final Thoughts: Which Brush Wins?
So what’s the best dog brush for doodles? If you want the short answer: a high-quality slicker brush paired with a sturdy grooming comb. Add a dematting tool for emergencies and you’re set.
The long answer? The best brush is the one you’ll actually use. No brush works if it sits in a basket while your doodle’s coat turns into dreadlocks. Find one that feels comfortable in your hand, doesn’t hurt your dog, and makes grooming something you both can tolerate, or maybe even enjoy.
What about you? Have you found your holy grail brush yet? Drop your favorite in the comments, I’m always curious to hear what works for other doodle parents.
FAQ: Best Dog Brush for Doodles and Grooming Tips
What kind of brush is best for doodles?
The best brush for doodles is a slicker brush. Think of it as the MVP of doodle grooming, it digs deep into those curls and gently teases out tangles before they turn into full-on mats. Pair it with a metal comb to check your work and you’ll be ahead of the game.
What type of brush is best for a doodle?
If you’re browsing at the pet store and feeling overwhelmed, just remember this: slicker first, comb second. A slicker brush for everyday detangling, and a stainless-steel comb to catch any sneaky knots hiding underneath.
What is the best brush for a doodle?
It’s a tie between the Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush for serious grooming sessions and a budget-friendly self-cleaning slicker for quick daily upkeep. The key isn’t just the brush, it’s actually using it consistently.
Do Goldendoodles need a special brush?
Yes. Goldendoodles need slicker brushes designed for curly coats, not just the basic bristle brush you’d use on a Lab. Their coat is dense, curly, and prone to matting, so a doodle-specific slicker brush saves you (and your dog) a lot of headaches.
Do Cavapoos need a special brush?
Absolutely. Cavapoos may be small, but their coats can mat just as fast as a Goldendoodle’s. The same slicker-and-comb combo works well. If you want a full Cavapoo-specific guide, check out our in-depth post here: Cavapoo Grooming Complete Guide.
What is the best brush for a Cavapoo?
A small slicker brush that fits their body size is perfect. Big brushes can overwhelm a Cavapoo, so go for one made for toy and small breeds.
What is the best brush for a Maltipoo?
For Maltipoos, a slicker brush with slightly softer pins is ideal since their coats can be finer. Finish with a comb to keep them mat-free and fluffy.
Do Maltipoos need a special brush?
Yes. A standard dog brush won’t cut it. Maltipoos need a brush that can get through their soft curls without causing breakage-think slicker plus comb.
How often do doodles need to be groomed?
At home, doodles should be brushed at least three times a week, daily if possible. Professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks keeps their coat manageable.
How often should doodles be bathed?
Every 4 to 6 weeks is plenty. Bathing too often can strip the natural oils from their coat, making mats worse. If your doodle rolls in mud or something questionable (because of course they do), rinse with water and only use shampoo when truly needed.
How to prevent doodle matting
Brush regularly, always start from the skin and work outward, and use a detangling spray if needed. Pay special attention to high-friction spots like behind the ears, under the collar, and around the armpits.
How to make sure your groomer loves you
Here’s the secret: brush your doodle at home. Groomers can tell when a doodle hasn’t seen a brush in weeks, and while they’ll still love your dog, they may charge extra for the extra work. A well-maintained coat not only saves you money but makes your groomer silently thank you every time.
