On grooming...

[Dianne Carter ~ Trinity Doodles]

If you have not checked it out yet I would definately recommend hopping over to this group here on DK ~ http://www.doodlekisses.com/group/doodlegrooming. It was started by Barb of Gemstone Labradoodles who is also a professional groomer. She has graciously extended a wealth of information there.

Additionally Kate Pappas has some incredible tips on her grooming from start to finish on the blog on her page, here you go ~ http://www.doodlekisses.com/profile/KatePappas ~ my favorite: stridex alcohol free pads for ear cleaning! A couple of our doods consistently get much dark buildup, usually only in one ear, this works better than anything we have tried up to this point for removal. Up to this point we have used ointments from the vet, witch hazel, peroxide, vinegar, Johnson & Johnson clean and clear, cotton balls, q-tips, on and on and on... The pad easily wraps around your finger for a thorough swipe and the dogs do not seem to mind so awfully much. Additionally the salicylic acid helps provide an environment within the ear to deter issues like yeast.

I would LOVE to hear your favorite tips that you use or have come across. Remember our doodles are now at the height of vulnerability for those dreaded coat change matts, it will require much more diligence during this time, but it passes. Knowing that this period is the most challenging in grooming for the entire life of your dood does soften the extra work. Our dogs actually love the additional one on one attention which is especially good if they are sharing your attention.

Blessings ~

[Dianne Carter ~ Trinity Doodles]

Just wanted to add that there was some information posted on matt splitting that was posted as a discussion in the grooming group. It was rather informative and mentioned several specific products that may be especially useful. BTW, Big sis Joy has just begun to reveal how quickly her coat can matt, like zero to matt ball overnight ~ gotta love the coat change = ) Blessings ~

[Susan, Zeke. Lily & Jasper]

The matting got the best of us! Zeke was sheared today much to my regret. He looks like a little lamb and feels like one too. Of course we are having our coldest weather this winter but this mess could not wait another day. He doesn't seem to be too traumatized by the process and is even wearing a new sweater which I never thought he would tolerate. Lily wasn't sure who he was at first but soon figured he was her old playmate Several possitives have come out of this, Zeke smells wonderful( I have to find out the shampoo that was used), he is cuddling more ( because he is cold ), he looks very athletic and seems to move more lightly on his feet, and you can really see his beautiful, sweet eyes. Even with all this, I can't wait to get my wooly guy back! p.s. I'll send a picture later.

[Dianne Carter ~ Trinity Doodles]

Susan ~ it happens to the best of us ~ no regrets = ) Of course we would love to see pics of Zeke sporting his new doo and his wardrobe of course! I read here yesterday that Old Navy had darling doggie vests for like $3 clearance should he become 'bored' with one look = ) Enjoy all of those snuggles today!

[2sforeqbpo84w]

We're in the same boat now. I love, love, love Cayennes sprials but she's hit the end of those days, for a while at least. We have an appointment set up for next week. I think she'll get the lamb look too though the groomer did say she could keep a lot on the face and the tail.
We've cut out a few matts along the way and where the hair has grown back, it looks so cute, short and curly, curly. I hope that's what we get as a result a few weeks after the shave.

[Nancy & Bisbee]

Well, Susan don't feel bad, I fear we are close. Bisbee looks so cute, his long spirals are great and he's really not matted per se. I can actually run my fingers through his coat (on top---legs no). BUT if I comb one of the spirals .... turns into a fuzz halo. so I don't do that. LOL...I do think we are in the beginning stages of the dreaded coat change....and I know it will win, but we are putting up a good fight :o[ I bet Zeke looks really cute in his new do (cuz he is a good lookin guy) and he does get to sport his new sweater! Hugs to all.............

[Dianne Carter ~ Trinity Doodles]

Hi Nancy ~ I can help with that one (yay) our doods get the fuzzy look after brushing or combing also and I just mist them with some water (or some leave in conditioner) and scrunch it through kind of like we used to do in the old 'perm' days. Mission accomplished, no matts and beautiful springy spirals return = )

[Susan, Zeke. Lily & Jasper]

Hi ya'll I added some pictures today of my naked Zeke. He still is a very handsome "dood" although I prefer him shaggy. He already is growing in some and right now feel like crushed velvet. I've decided to keep him pretty short, about 1 1/2 to 2 inches mainly because he was so hot natured and also now that he is short he cuddles more and wants to sleep near us. Also, I purchased a Les Pooch (red) brush to deal with his puppy coat as he grows out and also hopefully avoid this situation with Lily. Good luck to all the siblings as you deal with "the change"

[Dianne Carter ~ Trinity Doodles]

So I gotta share. I have used quite an array of brushes and combs in the past. I always saw the raves of the Les Pooches brushes, but had not indulged. This week I borrowed 2 that belong to a friend and all I can say is WOW! Last night I was able to brush through 3 dogs in less time than it normally takes me to do one!!! Given that time is such a precious commodity, we are off to exercise that new link on our site to the doodle country store.