Doodle Do’s & Dont’s

Doodle Do’s & Don’ts

A quick guide to what helps doodles thrive—and what to avoid to keep them happy and healthy.

What are the top “do’s” for doodle care?
  • Brush regularly: 3–4 times per week to prevent matting.
  • Provide daily exercise: 60–90 minutes of walks, play, or training.
  • Use positive reinforcement: reward good behavior with treats, praise, and play.
  • Schedule grooming: professional cuts every 6–8 weeks.
  • Socialize early: people, pets, environments, sounds.
What are the big “don’ts” with doodles?
  • Don’t skip grooming: mats can cause pain and skin issues.
  • Don’t rely on punishment: it can cause fear and worsen behavior.
  • Don’t overfeed: doodles can gain weight quickly—measure meals.
  • Don’t ignore anxiety: doodles bond deeply and may need support when left alone.
  • Don’t underestimate energy: boredom leads to destructive behavior.
Do doodles need special grooming routines?

Yes—doodles’ coats tangle easily. Consistent brushing, detangling spray, and professional grooming keep them comfortable and mat-free. Regular ear cleaning is essential too.

Should doodles be trained differently?

Doodles are highly intelligent and sensitive. They respond best to short, positive, reward-based sessions. Harsh corrections or yelling can make them anxious or stubborn.

Any don’ts when it comes to exercise?

Don’t skip daily exercise. At the same time, don’t push puppies into long runs before their joints develop. Mix structured walks, play, and mental games to balance energy needs.

Doodles thrive on structure, activity, and affection. Consistency in the “do’s” and awareness of the “don’ts” make life with a doodle smoother and happier for everyone.

Doodle Do’s & Dont’s

Based on their Poodle and Retriever parentage, doodle dogs are known for their intelligence, high energy, and affectionate nature, but also have high-maintenance coats. A consistent routine of grooming, exercise, and training is essential for their health and happiness. 

Do’s

  • Do schedule frequent and regular grooming. Depending on their coat type, doodle coats can easily get tangled and matted.
    • Brush: Brush your doodle daily or at least several times a week to prevent mats and tangles. Use a slicker brush or a wide-toothed comb, especially for curly coats.
    • Trim: Plan on regular visits to a professional groomer every 6 to 8 weeks for haircuts and trims of the face, ears, and paws.
    • Bathe: Bathe your doodle only when necessary, typically every 4 to 8 weeks, using a dog-specific shampoo. Over-bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils.
  • Do provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Doodles are energetic and intelligent dogs that need a healthy outlet for their energy.
    • Exercise: Provide at least 30 to 60 minutes of daily physical activity, such as walks, fetch, or runs.
    • Mental challenges: Engage their sharp minds with training sessions, interactive toys, or food puzzles to prevent boredom.
  • Do use positive reinforcement for training. Doodles are eager to please and respond well to rewards like praise and treats. Be consistent and concise during training to prevent confusion.
  • Do socialize your doodle early and often. Early and consistent exposure to new people, animals, and environments will help your doodle become a well-adjusted and confident adult.
  • Do puppy-proof your home. Doodles, especially puppies, can be curious chewers. Secure electrical cords, keep hazardous items out of reach, and invest in a variety of chew toys.
  • Do schedule regular vet checkups. Regular veterinary visits are essential for vaccinations, dental care, and preventive treatments for fleas and ticks.

 

Dont’s

  • Don’t neglect regular brushing and grooming. Skipping grooming can cause painful matting and lead to skin infections. If a doodle’s coat becomes severely matted, it may need to be shaved.
  • Don’t over-bathe your doodle. Excessive bathing can dry out their sensitive skin and coat by stripping natural oils.
  • Don’t forget to care for their ears. Doodles have floppy ears that can trap moisture and increase the risk of ear infections. Clean them regularly with a vet-approved solution.
  • Don’t leave them alone for too long. Many doodles are “velcro dogs” that bond closely with their families and are prone to separation anxiety. Keep alone time to a minimum and consider crate training to help them feel secure.
  • Don’t use negative reinforcement. Yelling or punishing your doodle can cause fear and anxiety. Always use positive, gentle training methods.
  • Don’t allow your doodle to exercise for 1 to 2 hours before or after eating. This can help reduce the risk of bloat, a life-threatening condition.
  • Don’t overlook dental care. Regular teeth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste is important to prevent dental diseases.

What Are The Signs Of Separation Anxiety In Doodles And How Can It Be Addressed?

As social and intelligent dogs, doodles can be prone to separation anxiety, especially if they are not gradually trained to be alone. This can lead to destructive and stressful behaviors for both the dog and the owner. 

Signs of separation anxiety

  • Destructive behavior: Chewing, digging, or scratching at doors, windows, and furniture are common signs of a dog trying to cope with stress or escape confinement.
  • Excessive vocalization: Anxious doodles may bark, howl, or whine excessively and relentlessly when left alone.
  • Inappropriate urination or defecation: An otherwise house-trained dog may have accidents indoors when experiencing anxiety.
  • Pacing or restlessness: Pacing in a circular pattern or back and forth is a common sign of a dog being unable to settle down.
  • Clingy behavior: Your doodle may begin to follow you from room to room or become excessively attached when you are home.
  • Pre-departure anxiety: A doodle with separation anxiety may begin to tremble, pace, or whine as you prepare to leave, often triggered by cues like picking up your keys or putting on your coat.
  • Excessive greeting: Overly excited greetings, such as jumping, whining, or frantic licking, when you return home can indicate distress during your absence.
  • Self-harm: In severe cases, a dog might engage in self-mutilation by excessively licking or chewing their fur. 

How to address separation anxiety

Mild cases

For mild anxiety, you can manage the behavior at home with patience and consistency. 

  • Desensitize your departure cues: Practice your leaving routine—like putting on your shoes and grabbing your keys—without actually leaving. This helps your dog uncouple these actions from the anxiety of being left alone.
  • Keep arrivals and departures calm: Avoid making a fuss when you leave or return. This keeps the experience neutral and prevents you from rewarding your dog’s anxious state.
  • Provide interactive toys: Give your dog a special, high-value toy or puzzle filled with treats (like a frozen Kong with peanut butter) only when you are leaving. This creates a positive association with your departure.
  • Boost exercise and mental stimulation: A long walk or active playtime before you leave can help a doodle burn off excess energy and calm their nerves.
  • Create a safe, comfortable space: For some doodles, a comfortable crate or a designated “safe room” can provide a secure environment. Include familiar items like bedding and a worn T-shirt with your scent.
  • Use calming aids: A background noise machine, calming music, or a pheromone diffuser can create a more relaxing atmosphere. 

Moderate to severe cases

For more severe anxiety that doesn’t improve with at-home management, you may need professional help.

  • Seek professional training: A certified animal behaviorist or dog trainer can help you create a behavior modification program using systematic desensitization. This involves gradually acclimating your doodle to longer periods of alone time, starting with just a few seconds, to build their confidence.
  • Manage absences: During training, it’s crucial to prevent your doodle from experiencing any anxiety. This may mean arranging for a dog-sitter, taking them to daycare, or having a family member care for them during your long absences.
  • Consider medication: For severe cases where a dog might harm themselves or destroy the home, a vet may prescribe anti-anxiety medication. This is not a cure but can help lower the dog’s overall anxiety to make training more effective.