Many doodle owners brush regularly and are still surprised when the groomer finds mats. The problem is often technique. A curly or wavy coat can look fluffy and smooth on the surface while tangles form close to the skin. Line brushing is a method groomers use to reach every layer of the coat, and it is worth learning if you have a doodle, a Poodle or any dog with a dense, curly coat.
What line brushing means
Instead of brushing over the top of the coat, you part the hair into a line so you can see the skin, then brush a small section of hair away from that line. Then you move the part a little and repeat. Working section by section ensures the brush reaches the base of the hair, where mats begin.
What you need
- A slicker brush sized for your dog
- A metal comb with both wide and fine teeth
- A detangling spray made for dogs, if your groomer recommends one
- Treats and a non-slip surface for your dog to stand or lie on
Brushing a completely dry, dirty coat can cause breakage, so many groomers suggest lightly misting the coat first.
How to do it, step by step
Start at a lower leg. With one hand, hold the hair up and out of the way so you can see a line of skin. With the slicker brush, gently brush a small amount of hair down and away from that line, using short, light strokes. Then move your hand up a little, release a new layer of hair, and brush that. Continue up the leg until you reach the body.
Work your way around the dog in the same way: each leg, then the sides, chest, belly, back, neck, tail and head. Be especially thorough in friction areas, such as behind the ears, under the collar, in the armpits and wherever a harness or jacket sits.
When you finish a section, run your metal comb through it down to the skin. If the comb slides through easily, move on. If it catches, go back with the brush and work the tangle out gently, holding the hair close to the skin so you are not pulling on your dog.
Handling mats safely
Small tangles can often be loosened by working them apart with your fingers and the end of the comb. Large or tight mats are a different matter. Trying to brush them out can be painful, and cutting them out with scissors is a common cause of accidental skin cuts. If you find mats close to the skin, leave them to a professional groomer, who may shave the area safely with clippers.
Keeping it positive
Line brushing a whole doodle takes time. You do not have to do the entire dog in one session. Breaking it up into a leg or two at a time keeps your dog relaxed. Reward calm behavior and stop before your dog gets fidgety. If your dog flinches, growls or seems sore when you brush a particular area, check with your veterinarian, since pain or skin trouble can be hiding under the coat.
