Ask the Groomer: The Doodle Dilemma, Managing Matting and Frequency for High-Maintenance Coats

Jacob Munro • February 24, 2026

Doodles, whether they are Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, or Bernedoodles, have become a popular choice in neighborhoods across the Greater Toronto Area. While their fluffy, teddy-bear look is appealing, it comes with what we call "The Doodle Dilemma": a high-maintenance coat that needs a strong partnership between pet owners and professional groomers.

At Paws in the Bath, we groom with a purpose. We prioritize the health and comfort of these wonderful dogs at every stage of their lives.

Understanding the Doodle Coat

The unique texture of a Doodle’s coat often includes a soft undercoat along with curly or wavy hair that doesn't shed like other dog coats. Instead of falling out, shed fur gets caught in the curls, leading to matting. If not managed, these mats can trap moisture against the skin. This can cause irritation, infections, and significant discomfort.

The Secret to Success: Maintenance Frequency

Our data shows a 700% increase in interest in how often dogs should be groomed. For Doodles, frequency is essential to avoid the "shave-down." We recommend:

Professional Grooming Every 4 to 6 Weeks: Regular visits allow our team of over 40 trained experts to manage the coat before mats become too much to handle.
The "Tidy" Visit: Not every appointment needs a full haircut. Mixing full grooms with "Tidy" sessions, which focus on the face, paws, and sanitary areas, keeps the coat manageable and the dog comfortable.
The 4-Point Health Check: During each visit, we carefully check the coat, ears, teeth, and nails. For Doodles, this is vital to spot ear infections or skin problems that may be hidden beneath thick fur.

At-Home Care: The Daily Brush

To keep your pet’s coat ready for the spa, daily brushing at home is essential. We suggest using high-value treats to make it a positive bonding time.

Healthybud Freeze-Dried Bites: Use these top-quality pre- and postbiotic treats to encourage good behavior during brushing sessions.
Open Range Bully Sticks: For longer brushing times, a single-ingredient Open Range Bully Stick offers the mental stimulation needed to keep your pup calm and happy.

A Stress-Free Experience Across 7 Locations

We know that high-maintenance grooming sessions can take a while. That’s why Paws in the Bath is a No-Cage facility. We provide a stress-free environment where your pet’s comfort is our main goal.

Whether you're looking for Doodle grooming in Toronto or a full-service session in Newmarket, we are now available at 7 convenient locations, including our newest branch at Rouge Park (Rosewood Pet Resort). Our Rouge Park location offers a unique "Active Wellness" experience in partnership with Rosewood Pet Resort (RWPR), where play and enrichment combine with expert grooming.

Ready to solve the Doodle Dilemma? Book your personalized grooming session today, and let our neighborhood experts help your best friend look and feel their best.

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