5 Things You Need to Know Before Getting a Doodle

Thinking about getting a Doodle? Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Bernedoodles, and Cockapoos are adored for their looks and personalities — but they also come with unique needs. From regular brushing and professional grooming costs, to high energy levels and consistent training, life with a Doodle takes commitment. In this post, we break down the five things every future Doodle owner should know so you can be prepared for the challenges and fully enjoy the rewards of raising one of these loving, intelligent companions.

Alastair McKinney

September 19, 2025·6 min read

5 Things You Need to Know Before Getting a Doodle

Thinking about getting a Doodle? Whether it’s a Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Bernedoodle, or Cockapoo, these breeds are loved for their teddy-bear looks, affectionate nature, and intelligence. But before you fall in love with their curly coats and playful personalities, it's worth knowing what life with a Doodle is really like.

If you’re asking yourself “should I get a doodle?”, this guide is for you. Here are the five most important things to know before getting a Doodle

  1. The Coat Needs Regular Brushing — With the Right Brush

Most Doodles have curly or wavy coats that tangle easily. Loose hairs don't fall away from a curly coat — they get trapped and wrap into knots down at the skin, where you can't see them. Without a consistent routine, those hidden tangles grow into mats, and severe matting can end in an unwanted shave-down at the groomer.

The good news: none of this is difficult once you know the routine — and it was never about effort. Most owners who struggle were simply given brushes that only reach the surface of the coat.

Why brushing matters for Doodles:

  • Prevents stubborn mats and tangles before they start

  • Keeps the coat clean and comfortable

  • Avoids extra de-matting charges at the groomer

  • Protects the skin by allowing airflow and reducing irritation

We recommend brushing your Doodle at least three times per week — and daily for longer or curlier coats — using a brush designed to reach the undercoat, like The Doodle Brush. Once brushed through, always follow with the Finishing Comb: if it glides freely down to the skin, the coat is genuinely tangle-free; if it snags, there's a hidden knot to go back for.

👉 For the full method, read our step-by-step guide to brushing a Doodle at home.


  1. Grooming Costs Add Up Quickly

Professional grooming is part of Doodle life, with most owners booking a grooming appointment every 5–8 weeks for a full trim. Over a year, that adds up to a significant amount.

Keeping up with coat care at home is what keeps those appointments quicker, less expensive, and more comfortable for your dog.

How to keep grooming costs down:

  • Stick to a regular brushing routine between appointments

  • Check your work with the Finishing Comb before every groom — a tangle-free coat means no de-matting fees

Your groomer will thank you, and your dog will spend less time on the table.

3. Doodles Can Have High Energy Levels

Doodles are typically active, athletic dogs that thrive in households with time for exercise and stimulation — though exact needs vary by type and size.

A typical Doodle needs:

  • Around an hour of exercise per day

  • Play sessions such as fetch or tug-of-war

  • Training exercises or puzzle toys for mental stimulation

Without enough activity, Doodles may turn that energy on your home — chewing, barking, or digging their way through the boredom.

4. Training Is Essential from Day One

Doodles are intelligent, quick learners — but they can also be mischievous. They thrive on structure, consistency, and positive reinforcement.

Training tips for Doodle puppies:

  • Start obedience training the day you bring your Doodle home

  • Use positive reinforcement — treats and praise beat corrections every time

  • Be consistent: Doodles are smart enough to notice gaps in the rules

Trained early and consistently, Doodles grow into well-mannered companions who are a joy to live with. (The same goes for grooming — short, positive brushing sessions from day one teach a puppy that handling is safe.)

5. The Rewards Make It All Worthwhile

Yes, Doodles are high-maintenance. The grooming, exercise, and training ask real commitment. But ask any Doodle owner and you'll hear the same answer: it's absolutely worth it.

Doodles are:

  • Affectionate and loyal family dogs

  • Playful and full of personality

  • Intelligent and adaptable, often excelling as therapy or service dogs

For families ready to commit to their care, Doodles offer unmatched love and companionship.

Final Thoughts: Should You Get a Doodle?

Doodles aren't right for everyone. They need regular brushing, professional grooming, consistent training, and plenty of exercise. But if you're prepared for the commitment, you'll gain a loyal, goofy, and loving companion who quickly becomes part of the family.

Start Your Doodle Journey with Us

At The Doodle Brush, we design grooming tools specifically for Doodle coats — flexible head slickers that reach the undercoat where tangles start, and the Finishing Comb that tells you when you're truly done.

👉 Shop The Doodle Brush Grooming System

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Q&A

How often should I brush my Doodle, and what tools do I need?

At least three times per week, and daily for longer or curlier coats. Regular brushing prevents stubborn mats, keeps the coat comfortable, avoids de-matting fees, and protects the skin. Use a flexible head slicker like the Double-Head Flexible Slicker from the Doodle Brush Grooming System to work through the coat gently, then always follow with the Finishing Comb to confirm you've reached the skin and caught any hidden knots.

Question: How often will my Doodle need professional grooming, and how can I keep costs down?

Most Doodles need a full groom every 5–8 weeks. You can keep appointments quicker, cheaper, and more comfortable by maintaining the coat at home: stick to a regular brushing routine and check your work with the Finishing Comb before each grooming appointment — a tangle-free coat means no de-matting charges.

Question: How much exercise and mental stimulation does a Doodle need?

Around an hour of daily exercise, adjusted for type and size. Combine walks with play (fetch, tug-of-war) and add mental stimulation through training sessions or puzzle toys. Without enough activity, Doodles may become destructive — chewing, barking, or digging.

Question: When should I start training my Doodle, and what methods work best?

Start the day you bring your Doodle home. Use positive reinforcement — treats, praise, and consistency. Doodles are smart and will notice gaps in the rules, so be clear and steady. Early, consistent training (and short, positive brushing sessions) helps them grow into well-mannered companions.

Question: Are Doodles right for me?

Doodles are wonderful but high-maintenance. They need regular brushing, routine professional grooming, daily exercise, and consistent training. In return, they're affectionate, playful, intelligent, and often excel as therapy or service dogs. If you're ready for the commitment, start with our New Doodle Parents' Starter Guide and join The Tangle-Free Doodle Club for community support.
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