Understanding Doodle Coat Types: Straight, Curly, and Wavy

One of the most important things to understand about Doodles — whether Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Cockapoos, or Bernedoodles — is their coat type. A Doodle’s coat not only affects how much they shed, but also determines how much brushing and grooming they’ll need.

In this guide, we’ll break down the three main Doodle coat types — straight, curly, and wavy — and explain what they mean for grooming, maintenance, and overall care.

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Straight Coat (Hairy) – The Lowest Maintenance but More Shedding

Some Doodles inherit a straighter, “hair-like” coat. This coat type tends to be coarser, and while it is easier to brush and maintain, it usually comes with more shedding compared to curly or wavy Doodles.

Pros of a straight coat:

  • Lowest maintenance of the three coat types
  • Requires less frequent brushing (2–3 times per week is often enough)
  • Fewer tangles and mats compared to curly coats

Cons of a straight coat:

  • More shedding around the home
  • Can have a coarser feel compared to silky or woolly coats

Grooming tips:

  • Use The Doodle Brush 2–3 times per week to keep the coat tidy
  • Follow up with a steel comb to catch loose hair and missed tangles
  • Expect more vacuuming and lint-rolling around the house

👉 Learn more in our full Doodle Grooming Guidelines.

 

 

Curly Coat (Woolly) – Low Shedding, High Maintenance


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The curly, woolly Doodle coat is low to non-shedding, which makes it appealing for allergy-conscious families, but it also requires the most work to maintain.

Pros of a curly coat:

  • Minimal to no shedding
  • Highly desirable “teddy bear” look
  • Soft, dense texture

Cons of a curly coat:

  • Highest grooming and brushing needs
  • Prone to matting if not brushed daily
  • Professional grooms required every 5–8 weeks

Grooming tips:

  • Brush daily with The Doodle Brush to prevent mats from forming
  • Use a steel comb to check for hidden tangles
  • Keep regular appointments with a professional groomer (every 5–8 weeks)
  • A detangling spray can help make brushing easier and more comfortable

👉 Shop tools made for curly coats in the Doodle Brush Collection.

 

 

Wavy Coat (Fleece) – Silky, Low Shedding, Medium Maintenance

 

The wavy coat (sometimes called fleece) is the most common among Doodles. It offers the best balance: silky soft, usually low to non-shedding, and easier to manage than a curly coat.

Pros of a wavy coat:

  • Silky soft and lovely to touch
  • Lower maintenance than curly coats
  • Minimal shedding compared to straight coats

Cons of a wavy coat:

  • Still requires consistent brushing (3–4 times per week)
  • Can develop mats if neglected
  • Needs regular trims to maintain its silky feel

Grooming tips:

  • Brush several times a week with The Doodle Brush to keep the coat smooth and mat-free
  • Use thinning scissors to keep the coat tidy around the eyes
  • Regular trips to the groomer (every 8 weeks or so) will keep the coat in ideal condition

 

Final Thoughts: Which Coat Type is Right for You?

Every Doodle coat type has its pros and cons. Straight coats are easier to manage but shed more. Curly coats shed less but require daily brushing and frequent grooms. Wavy coats fall somewhere in the middle, offering the best of both worlds.

Whatever coat type your Doodle has, the most important thing is to stay consistent with grooming. With the right tools and routine, you’ll keep your Doodle looking and feeling their best.

 

Start Grooming Your Doodle the Right Way

At The Doodle Brush, we design tools specifically for Doodle coats — whether straight, curly, or wavy. Our brushes make grooming easier, more effective, and more comfortable for your dog.

👉 Shop The Doodle Brush Collection

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