Curly-coated breeds like poodles, doodles, and Bichons are undeniably adorable—but behind those spiraled strands is a grooming challenge that demands consistency, education, and teamwork.
Here’s the groomer’s guide to keeping those curls healthy and ready for the fluffy “teddy bear” look:
🌀 1. Their Coats Mat Like Crazy—And FAST
Curly hair twists, loops, and locks in debris more than straight fur. Without daily brushing, tangles form close to the skin, leading to painful matting. And here’s the kicker: mats can develop beneath the surface where you can’t see them.
✅ Use a slicker brush to detangle
✅ Follow with a metal comb to catch deep knots
✅ Focus on high-friction areas: armpits, behind ears, legs, tail base
🛁 2. Bathing Requires Strategy
Baths are important—but if done wrong, they can make matting worse. For curly coats:
- Bathe every 2–4 weeks depending on your pup’s lifestyle
- Use groomer-approved dog shampoos and conditioners
- Always dry thoroughly (air-drying + no brushing = instant tangles)
- Brush again after drying to reset the curl structure
📅 3. Professional Grooming Is Non-Negotiable
To maintain length and fluff, appointments every 4–6 weeks are a must. Waiting longer makes brushing difficult, leads to matting, and often requires a shave-down for the dog’s health.
💡 Want that round, plush teddy bear look? It’s only possible with regular trims, scissoring, and prepped hair—something we can’t do if the coat is tangled or overgrown.
💬 4. Communication = Success
Your groomer is your partner in coat care. We LOVE curly-coated clients and want to help you maintain their comfort and beauty. Don’t be afraid to:
- Ask questions
- Request product recs
- Schedule coat checks between grooms
🧸 The Fluff Is Earned, Not Inherited
Curly coats are high-maintenance, but with teamwork and persistence, they can be the most stunning—and snuggly—looks around. Let’s keep those curls soft, stylish, and healthy together! 🐾

