Grooming help

[Anita - Thunder, Noodle, Sparky]

I have 3 large Gooldendoodles and I think I should probably learn how to groom them. One is very poodle-like, one is more wavy but doesn't talk to me for hours after I brush her, and one is a puppy that seems to be wavy too. What is your favorite brush/tool to use. Does anyone have any at-home-grooming suggestions?

[Ricki and Tara (doodle)]

Welcome to DK! Your doodles are beautiful and what a variety! I suggest you join us in the Grooming Group. There you will find many discussions regarding everything imaginable related to grooming. Many of us are home groomers too and it is a good place to ask your questions if you can't find answers with the search feature. Here's a link to the group:

http://www.doodlekisses.com/group/doodlegrooming

[Anita - Thunder, Noodle, Sparky]

Thank you! I have already been sucked into this forum! :) I will dig around on the other group later. I have a lot to learn about this site so I appreciate the help and direction!

[Ricki and Tara (doodle)]

Laura you might try a dematting tool or cutting through the mat with thinning shears and combing or brushing through it.  There are also products that help detangle hair. It depends on how dense the mat has become. You may have to cut it out but I couldn't try shaving it as you might end up with a bald spot.

[Anita - Thunder, Noodle, Sparky]

Ricki, I just learned about using thinning shears today at the groomer. He is a new groomer, and I stayed with my seizure dog to make sure she did ok and I talked the poor guys ear off! He is also a trainer. I am pulling my thinning shears out of the drawer and going to take care of business! And for our tender-hearted doodle lovers, she did great! :)

[Ricki and Tara (doodle)]

Oh, I'm so glad to hear she did so well and WTG getting info from the groomer!  Have fun with the thinning shears-I used mine yesterday on Tara's after-swimming mats, they worked great!

[Sally Huff]

Anita,  My doodle is pretty curly,maybe shy of a poodle coat.  Through trial and yes error, I have taught my self to groom Gracie.  I keep her  coat less than 1 inch.  I run my fingers through her hair and cut anything that is above my knuckles.  I trim the hair between the pads of her feet and keep the hair around her private parts and tummy short.  I have thinning shears that I use to keep her mustache and beard looking lady-like.  Also I  trim around her eyes, being careful not to trim her very long eyelashes that I love. Then just trim her tail for an even plume and clean her ears.  At last a comb through.  Once a month A pedicure and shampoo.  My DH calls it a day at Salon d' Mommy.  All that equals zero mats!  You can do it!  Just start small and remember it always grows back.  Good luck.

[Anita - Thunder, Noodle, Sparky]

Ok! I'm getting more inspired! Do you own a grooming table? I was thinking of one just for more regular brushings.

[Sally Huff]

A grooming table is worth the investment,IMO.  The table top is rubber with texture so no slipping or sliding and I think the dogs feel more secure.  Plus it will save your back.

[Anita - Thunder, Noodle, Sparky]

Thanks! I just got my Furminator Slicker in the mail and I really love it on my curly doodle. It didn't bother him or hurt him like every other brush I have tried. It may be too stiff for my softer-haired Doodles and I may need to buy a softer one for them.