Labradoodle, Cavoodle, Spoodle & More
Oodle or doodle dogs—like Labradoodles, Cavoodles, Spoodles, and Retrodoodles—are adored for their affectionate personalities and signature fluffy coats. But those soft curls and waves require special care to stay healthy and tangle-free. Whether your ‘Oodle has a fleece, wool, or straight coat, this guide will help you understand coat types, grooming prep, tools, blades, and trimming techniques—so your dog always looks and feels their best.
Understanding Oodle Coat Types
Before choosing grooming tools or planning your trim, start by identifying your dog’s coat type. Most Oodles fall into one of three categories:
Fleece Coat
Soft, loose waves with a shaggy look
Low to non-shedding, but prone to tangles
Typically single coat, sometimes with a cottony undercoat
Requires frequent brushing—especially if kept long
Wool Coat
Dense and curly, similar to Poodle coats
Non-shedding but mats easily
Texture ranges from tight curls to cottony wool
Highest maintenance—needs daily brushing if kept long
Hair / Straight Coat
Wispy, silky, or wiry like a Spaniel
Low to medium shedding
Less brushing required, but more vacuuming!
Easier to manage, with coat lengths that vary across the body
The Truth About “Non-Shedding”
No coat is 100% shed-free. Fleece and wool coats trap shed hairs instead of releasing them—leading to knots and mats without regular brushing. This is why curly-coated Oodles need much more frequent grooming than straight-haired dogs.
Puppy Coat Transition: What to Expect
Between 6 to 14 months (usually around 9–12), your puppy’s soft baby coat transforms into an adult coat. This transition may change curl pattern, texture, and even color.
Tips:
Begin regular brushing early, before the coat changes
Use a slicker or pin brush—bristle brushes won’t reach deep enough
Daily brushing is crucial during this stage to avoid painful mats
Prepping the Coat Before Clipping
Proper preparation makes all the difference for a clean, safe cut:
Detangle First: Wide-tooth comb → slicker brush → detangler spray
❗ Never bathe a tangled coat—it tightens knots
Wash & Condition: Shampoo opens the cuticle; conditioner closes and smooths it
Dry Thoroughly: Towel blot + high-velocity dryer; use a Happy Hoodie for nervous dogs
Final Comb Check: A grooming comb should pass through easily before clipping
⚠️ Dirty coats dull blades fast—think of dirt as sandpaper. Clean coat = clean result.
Keeping Long Coats Tangle-Free
To keep your Oodle’s coat long and healthy, commit to consistent brushing:
Always brush to the skin, not just the surface
Use line brushing to check every area section-by-section
Tackle tangles with a slicker brush or grooming comb
Apply detangler spray to ease discomfort
Pay special attention to friction zones: ears, armpits, paws, neck, and legs
Common Mistake: Skipping Conditioner
Many owners skip conditioner—but fleece and wool coats need it!
Shampoo opens the hair shaft; conditioner closes and hydrates
For wool coats, use anti-frizz spray or coat detangler to prevent static
Brush damp hair with a wide-tooth comb for a smoother finish
Clippers: Choosing the Right Tool
Curly coats demand more power. Choose your clippers based on coat type:
✅ Best for Fleece & Wool Coats
LILIPROPET AC803
LILIPROPET AC804
Same power as AC803 plus LCD display
Ideal for dense, matted, or coarse coats
🔗 Both are A5-compatible, working with standard blades and combs.
💡 Use low speed for trimming; high speed for thick sections.
⚠️ Avoid "light use" or "touch-up" clippers—they won’t cut it for full-body grooming.
Clippers for Straight or Hair Coats
These coats are easier, but still need reliable tools.
What’s an A5 Clipper?
If you’ve seen “A5” on clipper specs, you’re looking at a professional-standard blade system trusted across the grooming industry. A5 clippers are:
Compatible with most blade brands like LILIPROPET, Andis, Oster, and Wahl
Designed for easy swapping of blades and universal comb attachments
Ideal for groomers who want flexibility and performance in one tool
🔗 Curious how A5 blades actually work and what sizes to choose?
Check out our full breakdown in What Is an A5 Blade? Universal Clipper Compatibility Explained
Choosing the Right Blades & Combs
Start with LILIPROPET’s #10 blade (1.5mm) as a base for comb attachments.
Blades include:
#3F – 13mm
#4F – 9.5mm
#5F – 6.3mm
#7F – 3.2mm
#10 – 1.5mm
#40 – 0.25mm
5/8N – 0.8mm
⚠️ A comb won’t glide if the coat isn’t detangled. In tough spots, use #10 or #7F first.
LILIPROPET Professional A5 Blades
Do You Need a Trimmer?
Not essential, but very helpful for detailing:
LILIPROPET PT302 / PT303 / PT304 are cordless, low-noise, and gentle—ideal for sensitive areas.
Grooming by Body Area
Head, Ears, Tail
Legs
Body
Final Touch
💡 For dense coats: use a deshedding rake before clipping for easier grooming.
Final Thoughts
Oodle grooming isn’t just about looking good—it’s about skin health, coat comfort, and your dog’s well-being. With the right prep and tools like LILIPROPET clippers, trimmers, and A5 blades, grooming becomes easier, faster, and more enjoyable for both of you.
📩 Need help finding the right tool?
Reach out to our grooming experts—we’re here to help.
